Crab
Lateral weight-transfer move with inverted knee alignment – demands hip abduction control and diagonal edge pressure. Critical for "Pinch" course sections in competition.
Classification Evolution
Prerequisite Enforcement
1. Snake Push (D) Mastery:
- 10 reps with <0.2s direction change
- No wheel scrub (acoustic validation)
2. Hip Mobility Screen:
- Frog stretch: Knees 15cm from the floor
- External rotation: 45° bilaterally
Technical Execution
1. Stance Architecture
- Feet: 60° outward angle, 1.5x shoulder width
- Weight Split: 70% on inside foot / 30% on outside foot
Kinetic Rationale: Gluteus medius isometric hold → stabilizes the hip during lateral loading
2. Lateral Transfer (0.4s)
- Movement: Lead with hips → trail foot drags to close stance
- Edge Work: Inside edge (lead) → flat (trail) transition
Kinetic Rationale: Tensor fasciae latae activation prevents knee valgus
3. Crab Lock (0.3s)
- Posture: Knees bent 110°, torso upright
Kinetic Rationale: Quadriceps eccentric loading stores energy for exit
Gear Optimization
Biomechanical Tolerances
Injury Biomechanics: Excessive torso lean (>15°) → lumbar facet joint impingement
Mastery Metrics
Competition Utility (WSSF)
Pro Tip
> "Imagine squeezing a medicine ball between your knees" – maintain 35° hip abduction through isometric tension. Elite skaters reduce transition time to 0.3s by pre-loading the peroneus longus before foot drag.
Safety Protocol
- C-Class: Knee sleeves + lateral ankle support
- B-Class: Real-time knee alignment sensors (audible valgus alarm)
- Ban: Attempts without minimum hip abduction of 30°