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Heel-Heel Snake

HEEL-HEEL SNAKE (V4.3 "COACH" CORE TEMPLATE)

0. PREREQUISITES (NON-NEGOTIABLE)

  • System-Check (Tier Prerequisites): backward_skating (C-Tier), heel_wheeling (B-Tier), backward_fish (C-Tier). Mastery of backward balance, heel control, and basic backward weaving is essential.

  • Physical Attributes: Strong quadriceps for sustained deep knee bends (110-120°). Good backward spatial awareness. Core strength to maintain the backward lean position.

  • Safety Mandates: Must be performed on smooth, predictable surfaces. Padded shorts are recommended for tailbone protection during learning. A spotter is advised for initial attempts.

1. MOVE DEFINITION

  • Name: Heel-Heel Snake

  • Biomechanical Key: Executing continuous backward S-weaves primarily on heel wheels through precise weight shifts and edge control, requiring sustained deep knee flexion and backward spatial awareness.

2. TECHNICAL EXECUTION (V4.3 ENHANCED)

  • Global Sequence (The "Bird's-Eye View"):

    • Phase 1: Establish backward momentum and position on heel wheels.

    • Phase 2: Initiate first weave through heel pressure shifts and shoulder rotation.

    • Phase 3: Maintain rhythmic pattern through consecutive cones.

    • Phase 4: Make constant adjustments for consistent backward spacing.

    • Phase 5: Exit to a stable backward position or transition.

  • Foot Breakdown (The "On-the-Ground View"):

    • Lead Heel's Role (The "Carver"):

      • Phase 1: Bears the majority of the weight with a deep knee bend.

      • Phase 2: Applies heel pressure and edge control to initiate weave direction.

      • Phase 3: Maintains primary contact while guiding the S-pattern.

      • Phase 4: Makes micro-adjustments to maintain rhythm.

      • Phase 5: Prepares for transition to next move.

    • Trail Heel's Role (The "Supporter"):

      • Phase 1: Provides secondary support with light heel contact.

      • Phase 2: Assists with balance during direction changes.

      • Phase 3: Becomes the primary carver during weight transfers.

      • Phase 4: Alternates role with lead foot through the pattern.

      • Phase 5: Provides stability during exit.

3. GEAR IMPACT

  • Failure Points: Worn heel wheels reduce control during carves. The natural rocker of Flying Eagle Fast Blades (76-80-80-76) can create instability during transitions for beginners.

  • Optimization Tips: Beginners should use a temporary flat setup (4x80mm) for stability. Medium-hard wheels (85A-88A) provide good grip/slide balance. Ensure the heel areas of the wheels are in good condition.

  • Maintenance Alert: Rear wheels wear 50% faster in this move. Rotate wheels every 2-3 sessions. Check for uneven heel wear patterns.

4. COACHING PROGRESSIONS

  • Error-Specific Drills:

    • Error (From Foot Breakdown): Toe wheels making contact (insufficient heel pressure).

      • Drill: "Heel Roll Glides": Practice extended backward glides on heels only, focusing on maintaining pure heel contact.

    • Error: Inconsistent backward spacing (poor spatial awareness).

      • Drill: "Wide S-Curves": Practice larger arcs at 150cm spacing first, using shoulder checks to develop spatial sense.

  • Neural Sync Drills: "Progressive Density": Start with 5 cones at 120cm, gradually reducing to 80cm as control improves, building backward precision.

5. COMBO PATHWAYS

  • WSSF Rule Reference: Demonstrates solid "Technical Execution" in backward control and "Flow" in the C-Tier range under standard WSSF rules.

  • High-Scoring Combos:

    • Backward Flow: Heel-Heel Snake → Back Nelson (C-Tier) → Crazy Legs (B-Tier)

    • Battle-Ready Jam: Heel-Heel Snake → Mabrouk (A-Tier) → Sweep Slide (B-Tier)

  • Flow-State Score: Medium. Creates good backward rhythm when mastered, though the cognitive load of backward navigation can initially disrupt flow.

6. PHYSICS & SAFETY

  • Physics Breakdown: The move relies on centrifugal force management during backward curves. The deep knee bend (110-120°) lowers the center of gravity for stability. The 15° backward lean counters the natural forward pitch of skating.

  • Pre-Hab Protocol:

    • Quad Strength: Deep squats, wall sits.

    • Core Stability: Back extensions, planks.

    • Spatial Awareness: Practice backward movements with gradual reduction of visual checking.

  • Neural Load Estimate: High. Requires significant cognitive effort for backward navigation, weight transfer timing, and spatial awareness.

7. MASTERY METRICS

  • Competition Readiness Checklist:

    • Can complete 8+ consecutive backward weaves, maintaining heel-wheel dominance.

    • Maintains consistent 80cm spacing while traveling backward.

    • Achieves 110-120° knee flexion throughout the sequence.

    • Upper body remains stable with controlled shoulder rotations.

    • Can perform with equal proficiency in both directions.

  • Performance Metrics:

    • Heel Purity: Percentage of time maintaining pure heel contact.

    • Spacing Consistency: Ability to maintain proper distance from cones while backward.

8. PRO TIP

  • Attributed Quote: "The Heel-Heel Snake is a dance with gravity. Lean back until it feels dangerous – that's the sweet spot. If your thighs aren't burning, you're not committing to the deep knee bend." - French Slalom Pedagogy

  • Verification Link: [Search: "heel heel snake slalom"] (Observe the extreme backward lean and deep knee positions)

9. ENVIRONMENTAL INTELLIGENCE

  • Surface Grip Index:

    • Optimal: Smooth indoor sport tile with consistent medium grip.

    • Acceptable: Very smooth, clean concrete.

    • High Risk: Uneven, dusty, or slippery surfaces where heel control becomes unpredictable.

  • Maintenance Impact: High on heel areas of wheels, particularly rear wheels.

  • Environmental Warning: ESSENTIAL to practice in clear, open areas. Backward movement significantly reduces visibility and reaction time. Always check your path thoroughly before attempting.

10. VISUAL RESOURCES

V4.3 UPGRADE NOTE & CLASSIFICATION: This analysis classifies Heel-Heel Snake as a C-Tier move (Foundational Precision & Flow), consistent with the Reliable Slalom Skill Hierarchy. The enhanced Foot Breakdown clarifies the alternating "Carver" and "Supporter" roles of the heels, which is crucial for understanding the weight transfer mechanics in backward weaving. All speculative elements have been replaced with practical, evidence-based coaching advice focused on the unique challenges of backward heel-wheel control.