BY

Backward Nelson Snake

Move Analysis: Backward Nelson Snake

Classification: C-Tier (Foundational Precision)
Rationale: This move requires consistent multi-plane control (managing both backward momentum and lateral edge shifts) and introduces the skater to crossing the legs while moving backwards. It has a moderate neural demand for rhythm and a medium fragility risk if balance is lost on an inside edge. It is a cornerstone for all advanced backward slalom skating.

0. PREREQUISITES (NON-NEGOTIABLE)

  • System-Check: Confident backward skating and backward gliding on each foot. Mastery of the Backward Fish (Backward Double "S") is essential for understanding the basic backward slalom path. Ability to hold a one-foot backward glide for more than 3 seconds on each foot.

  • Physical Attributes: Good hip mobility for external rotation (to allow the legs to cross) and strong ankle stabilizers to control the inside edges.

  • Safety Mandates: Must be performed on a smooth, predictable surface. Knee pads and wrist guards are highly recommended during the learning phase to mitigate falls backward or onto the side.

1. MOVE DEFINITION

  • Name: Backward Nelson Snake (Backward Nelson)

  • Biomechanical Key: The generation of a narrow, backward "S" path by sequentially crossing the feet and applying pressure to the inside edges, using a rhythmic "cross-un-cross" motion to propel oneself backwards.

2. TECHNICAL EXECUTION

  • Phase 1 (The Setup & First Cross): Start by rolling backwards. Cross one foot over the other (e.g., right foot over left). Your weight should be on the outside edge of your back foot (left foot) and the inside edge of your crossed front foot (right foot).

  • Phase 2 (The Un-Cross & Transfer): Un-cross your feet, pushing off the inside edge of what was your front foot (right) to transfer your weight to the other foot (left). You are now gliding backwards on one foot for a brief moment.

  • Phase 3 (The Mirror Cross): Immediately cross your feet again, but now with the opposite foot in front (left foot crosses over right). Apply pressure to the new set of inside/outside edges.

  • Phase 4 (Rhythm Maintenance): Continue this alternating cross-un-cross rhythm. The upper body should remain relatively quiet and faced forward, with the movement driven from the hips down.

3. GEAR IMPACT

  • Failure Point - Wheel Durometer: Wheels that are too hard (>90A on sport tile) will slip out during the edge push, making propulsion difficult. Wheels that are too soft (<84A) can grip too much, making the cross-un-cross transition feel jerky and less fluid.

  • Failure Point - Frame Length: A longer frame (>250mm) will be more difficult to maneuver in the tight, crossed-leg positions and can cause the skates to hit each other.

  • Optimization Tip: A short or medium rockered frame is ideal as it enhances maneuverability and makes finding the pivot point for the cross easier.

4. COACHING PROGRESSIONS

  • Error: Feet not crossing completely, resulting in a wide "Z" path instead of a narrow "S".

    • Drill: "Stationary Cross Holds." Practice holding the crossed position while stationary (or holding a wall) to build comfort and flexibility in the position.

  • Error: Losing balance and falling backwards during the weight transfer.

    • Drill: "Backward One-Foot Glides." Drills focused on extending the duration of the one-foot glide between crosses will build the core stability needed for balance.

  • Error: Jerky, uneven rhythm.

    • Drill: "Counting the Rhythm." Practice to a metronome or by counting out loud ("cross, push, cross, push") to establish a consistent tempo.

5. COMBO PATHWAYS

  • WSSF Rule Reference: WSSF Rulebook Section 4.1.2 (Backward Flow). This move is a fundamental component of backward sequences and is rewarded for consistency, rhythm, and clean cone clearance.

  • High-Scoring Combos:

    • Backward Fish → Backward Nelson: A classic progression from a wide, stable backward move to a more technical, narrow one.

    • Backward Nelson → Backward Cross Pulls: A natural transition from a crossed-leg move into a powerful pulling move, demonstrating versatile backward control.

6. PHYSICS & SAFETY

  • Physics: The move converts the lateral force from pushing against the inside edge into backward momentum. The crossed position creates a shorter lever arm, allowing for quicker directional changes and a tighter turning radius.

  • Pre-Hab Protocol: The move stresses the hip abductors/adductors and the ankle stabilizers.

    • Lateral Lunges: (3x10 per side) to strengthen the muscles used for the lateral push.

    • Clamshells: (3x15 per side) to activate the gluteus medius for pelvic stability during the one-foot glide phase.

    • Ankle Eversion/Inversion with Band: (3x15 per direction) to strengthen the ligaments that support the ankle on inside edges.

7. MASTERY METRICS

  • Competition Readiness Checklist:

    • Can perform the move through a line of cones spaced 1.2 meters apart without missing a cone or breaking rhythm.

    • The upper body remains stable and faces forward; the movement is isolated to the lower body.

    • The "S" path is symmetrical and narrow.

    • Can perform the move with equal proficiency starting with either foot as the first cross.

8. PRO TIP

  • "Look through your legs, not behind you. Your head is heavy; if you turn it to look backwards, your shoulders and hips will follow, and you'll lose your line. Trust your feeling and learn to spot the cones through your legs in your peripheral vision." - Common advice from elite slalom coaches.

9. ENVIRONMENTAL INTELLIGENCE

  • Surface Grip Index:

    • Sport Tile (1.0): Ideal. Provides a a consistent grip for the inside edge push.

    • Smooth Concrete (0.9): Very good. The primary surface for practice.

    • Rough Asphalt (0.6): Difficult. The uneven surface makes the precise edge control and balance required for the crossed position very challenging and unstable.

  • Maintenance Impact: This move will cause noticeable wear on the inside edges of your wheels, particularly the front wheels of the skate that is crossed over. A strict wheel rotation schedule (1-3, 2-4, flip) is mandatory to prevent coning and maintain a consistent feel.

Visual Resources

This move is a direct prerequisite for 80% of B-Tier backward maneuvers, including Backward Cross Pulls and more complex backward one-foot moves.