How to Do Spread Eagles on Figure Skates

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Stretch Out at the Rail

A spread eagle is a figure skating move where a skater glides on two feet with the toes pointing in opposite directions. The legs are completely straight and spread apart. This step-by-step tutorial gives directions on how to do a spread eagle.

Step One - Stretch Out at the Rail

While holding onto the rail put the inside of your skates right at the edge of the rail.

Straighten both legs.
Push your hips completely forward.
Hold this open position for at least 20 seconds.

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Do a Spread Eagle at the Rail

Move your feet about 10 inches away from the boards and shoot each blade out on outside edges.

The feet should point in opposite directions, and the heels of each blade should be in line with each other.

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Move the Spread Eagle at the Rail

Use the rail to move yourself sideways in one direction and then in the other direction.

Maintain the spread eagle position for as long as possible.
Tuck in your rear end.

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Glide on One Foot

Leave the rail and glide forward on one foot with the free foot extended in front.

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Attempt a Spread Eagle

Next, open up your legs and attempt to do a spread eagle. Try to tuck in your rear end and don't look down.

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Practice Spread Eagles

Practice makes perfect!

Most ice skaters can't do spread eagles right away, so practicing spread as much as possible will help skaters master spread eagles. Practice spread eagles even if you believe you can't do them!

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