Christina - Lattes and Lutzes

How to pumpkin power your power pulls, it’s pumpkin spice season

by Christina | Sep 21, 2024 | Mind & Body Balance

Okay, pumpkin spice fans, you win! This post is a little more latte and a little less lutz, but you need to fuel those skating sessions right? Until now I have been resisting the urge to dive into fall flavors, especially with the beautiful weather we’ve been having here in the Northeast. But this week, I caved and went full-on pumpkin spice while planning some healthy snacks for the week ahead. I’m happy to report I found a couple of seasonal favorites!

First Find: Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate

If you’re like me and need an afternoon pick-me-up but don’t want to overdo it with sugar and caffine, this product is a perfect. Enter: Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Concentrate. I was skeptical at first—pumpkin spice can sometimes be overpowering—but this one strikes the perfect balance. Mixed with plant milk (I used almond milk for an extra boost of calcium and protein), it’s a deliciously smooth fall-flavored treat. A subtle hint of spice, no sugar crash, and no guilt!

Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookie Recipe – Thanks, ChatGPT!

My second fall-inspired find actually came with a little help from AI! It’s not very often skaters have the opportunity to turn to technology for solutions but I thought this was a fun way to test out the power of artificial intelligence. Previously I scrolled by an oatmeal and pumpkin cookie recipe on Instagram but couldn’t find it again when I was ready to bake. So, I asked ChatGPT, to create a healthy cookie receipe and gave it a few ingredients to use as a starting point.

These pumpkin oatmeal cookies are easy to whip up, nutritious, and made with whole ingredients like rolled oats and pumpkin puree. They’re sweetened with natural maple syrup or honey and can be customized with dark chocolate chips or raisins for extra flavor.

Ingredients:

1 cup pumpkin puree
1 ½ cups rolled oats
¼ cup (or less depending on your taste) maple syrup or honey
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
½ cup dark chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
1 egg (optional, for binding)
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a lined baking sheet.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.

Enjoy your healthy cookies!

Embrace the Pumpkin Spice Vibes

If you’ve been hesitant to jump on the pumpkin spice bandwagon as I was—these finds make it worth it. The cold brew concentrate is a perfect afternoon pick-me-up, and the healthy pumpkin oatmeal cookies are a great snack to power you through the day. Let me know if you give either of these a try!

Is a Triple Axel Required? The Truth About Skating for Fun

by Christina | Sep 14, 2024 | Mind & Body Balance

Why is it that when you tell someone you figure skate, they immediately ask, “Can you skate backwards?” “Do you have a triple axel?” or “Are you going to the Olympics?” If you answer “no” to the last two, you’re often dismissed with, “Oh, so why do you skate?” It’s curious how being involved in a niche sport seems to demand expertise to justify your participation. Yet, if a friend told me they cycle, I wouldn’t ask, “Is your bike carbon fiber? Did you do a century ride (100 miles) this weekend? What’s your best finish in the Tour de France?”

Why does figure skating seem to require top-tier expertise and competitive success to be viewed as a valid pursuit? Here are my thoughts, and I’d love to hear yours.

The Fragments We See

First, only the highest levels of figure skating are shown to the general public. The skaters you see on TV are at the national or international level, and if you’re watching on a major network, you only see the top finishers—the top 1% of the one-percenters. This is quite different from sports like hockey, where you watch all teams, whether winning or losing in their divisions.

Hockey fans can follow their teams weekly during the season. Players have standout moments and times when they aren’t at their best, but that’s part of the bigger picture. In figure skating, only the top competitions get televised, and just a handful of skaters represent their countries internationally. As a result, you may only see an elite skater 3–4 times a season, magnifying the importance of each performance.

Big Jumps or Bust?

Unlike sports where outcomes are straightforward—like whether a puck enters the net or a sprinter finishes in a specific time—figure skating has a complex judging system. Currently, it often emphasizes technical difficulty, giving the impression that it’s “all about the jumps” or that judging is unfair. While figure skating has experienced judging controversies, the current IJS system strives to balance all elements in a program, including spins, jumps, footwork, and presentation.

Since jumps are the most visible element, commentators often focus on them, leaving some viewers puzzled by the rest of the program (such as footwork sequences or spins, which are anything but filler content) or why one skater outscored another. Non-jump elements rarely receive attention in competition broadcasts.

Perfection Isn’t a Goal

When athletes from other sports discuss their goals, they usually sound like: “I want to run a 6-minute mile” or “I’m focusing on defense.” You wouldn’t hear a baseball pitcher say their goal is to pitch a perfect game—it happens, but it’s extremely rare.

So, why do figure skaters feel pressured to achieve a specific score (something they can’t control, as different judging panels weigh deductions differently) or skate a “clean” program? While it seems reasonable, a clean program depends on how your elements are going during training, how you feel on the day, and whether the technical panel agrees with your version of “clean”—given they have slow-motion replays.

Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day

When we watch elite athletes, it’s easy to forget that their success took years of hard work and perseverance. Even when commentators make it seem like someone “burst onto the scene,” the reality is different. If you follow figure skating, you’ve likely heard of Nathan Chen, aka “The Quad King,” but he too started with basic moves and small jumps.

Malcolm Gladwell popularized the “10,000-hour rule” in his book Outliers, suggesting it takes around 10,000 hours of practice to master a skill. Let’s do some math: if you skated 10 hours a week for 20 years, you’d hit roughly 10,000 hours—enough to be considered an expert.

The Most Improved Swimmer Award

Remember this award from summer camp? One camper would start the summer scared to dive off the dock, but after weeks of hard work, they’d be rewarded with a trophy for their progress. If you were that kid, I bet you kept that trophy long after others were forgotten because it symbolized dedication and effort.

Why can’t we apply this mentality to figure skating? The focus could shift to achieving personal milestones—logging practice hours, mastering a specific jump, or performing your best at a competition—and letting the results fall as they may.

“Success in figure skating doesn’t have to be defined by podium finishes. It can be as simple as mastering a move you’ve practiced for weeks or simply enjoying time on the ice.”

So, if we replay the conversation from the beginning, it might go something like this:

Can you skate backwards? Yes.
Do you have a triple axel? No, but I’m working on my lutz.
Are you going to the Olympics? Unlikely, but I’m enjoying every moment of my skating journey.

Glitz and Glam: Expert Tips for Program Hair & Makeup

by Christina | Sep 7, 2024 | Conversations

I recently sat down with Tori Bland of VLB Beauty—a hairstylist, makeup artist, show and film SFX artist—to discuss her take on creating program hair and makeup looks that last. Here’s what she had to say:

Tips for Mastering Program Hair & Makeup

When it comes to figure skating, the contrast between everyday makeup and competition makeup is as striking as the difference between a quiet rehearsal and a spotlighted stage show. Everyday makeup tends to be more natural and subtle, often just a touch of bronzer and mascara. But for competition, figure skaters need to go bold—our stage is large, and the lighting is harsh.

For inspiration, I often look to the pros at national and world championships. Skaters at this level often create a full character with their makeup and hair, reflecting the intensity and drama of their skating program. Think of it as a more theatrical, exaggerated version of everyday beauty.

Drawing Inspiration Beyond Skating

While top-level figure skating performances provide a wealth of inspiration, I also draw from theater, fashion, and even the character of the music being skated to. For instance, if a skater is performing to something classic like Gone with the Wind, you might see them sporting spiral curls reminiscent of Scarlett O’Hara. Or, for something modern like a Star Wars-themed performance, space buns inspired by Princess Leia might be the an option.

Hair Challenges: From Character to Mood

When it comes to hairstyles, the skater’s character, music, and mood all play a significant role in determining the right look. If the music is harsh and intense, a structured, elegant hairstyle might be appropriate, balancing sharpness with a touch of softness. But remember, figure skaters aren’t just walking down a runway—they’re spinning, jumping, and moving at high speeds. So, durability is key.

That’s why there’s typically a lot of product involved. Think hair gel, hairspray, and more hair gel—enough to make sure every strand stays in place, even in a level 4 spin. For particularly challenging hair types, like a thick, heavy, straight texture that resists curls or fine blonde hair that needs volume, specific techniques and products are crucial. Setting curls overnight, using volumizing powders, or even creating the illusion of fuller hair with makeup products designed for that purpose.

Makeup for the Rink: Balancing Colors and Lights

The rink is a unique stage—bright, fluorescent lights reflect off white ice, creating a tough environment for makeup. To combat this, skaters need makeup that won’t wash out or look too harsh. Color theory plays a big role here. For example, the rink’s lighting could make everything look yellow; therefore, purple makeup can help neutralize that and provide a striking contrast. This is why competition makeup often goes heavier than everyday looks, especially with blush, to add warmth and avoid looking washed out.

Makeup and Hair for Young Skaters

When it comes to children, simpler is better. A little eyeshadow, mascara, blush, and lip color can go a long way. Keep it fun and easy—using eye shadow sticks or fingers instead of brushes can make application a breeze. And when it comes to glitter, whether on the face or in the hair, the key is to ensure it stays put. Products like glitter gels or strong-hold setting sprays can help lock everything in place.

Making It Last: Products and Techniques

For long-lasting makeup, layering is essential. Start with a good base—like concealer all over the eyelid, which acts as a primer—and set everything with powder and setting spray. For competition-level durability, brands like Half Magic, known for their vibrant, performance-ready formulas, can make all the difference.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring a touch-up kit. Small, compact products are perfect for on-the-go fixes, especially between events. Remember, a well-prepared skater is a confident skater, and that confidence shows on the ice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the biggest mistakes I see is the lack of effort in hair and makeup. Skaters who show up with just a ponytail and eyeliner miss out on the opportunity to enhance their presentation. Remember, figure skating is an artistic sport—how you look on the ice affects not only how you feel but also how you perform. A polished appearance boosts confidence, which in turn can improve your performance. And yes, judges do notice!

In the end, the effort you put into your hair and makeup is as much a part of your performance as the jumps and spins. So, take the time to perfect your look, and step onto the ice with the confidence that you’re going to slay it out there.

The Ultimate Guide to Adult Skate Camps: Advice & Observations

by Christina | Aug 31, 2024 | Conversations

Summer often brings back childhood memories of camp, but the fun doesn’t have to stop when you grow up! Adult skate camps are a fantastic way to relive the experience, offering opportunities to train intensively—even if just for a few days. Not only do you get to hone your skills, but you also get to connect with fellow adult skaters, learn from new coaches, and explore different aspects of the sport that you might not experience in your usual training routine.

I recently caught up with three campers who attended the Road to Gold, The Experience, and Lake Placid Adult Week camps. They shared their experiences, insights, and some helpful advice for anyone considering diving into an adult skate camp.

Have you been to an adult skate camp? Share your experience in the comments below!

Road to Gold

Meet our Camper: Julie Bardon is an adult competitive skater at the master intermediate/novice level and she attended with the goal to work on her spins since she competed 6.0 as a child and the new IJS system adds a different emphasis on elements.

Location: This camp travels to many different areas and aims to serve smaller markets where it can be challenging for skaters to find top coaches. Our skater attended the camp in Vail, CO which had a dedicated adult weekend.

Duration: 2 days with a welcome reception the night before

Structure: For this camp you have two options, you can build your own camp by choosing a la carte from an abundance of on and off ice classes each with a particular skill focus or you can work with camp coordinator to create a more traditional structure.

Coaches: Gracie Gold, Geoffry Varner, Max Aaron, Eddie Shipstad & James Hernandez to name a few

Julie’s Thoughts: The allure of this camp lies not just in its picturesque setting, but in its unique structure and top-notch coaching. One of the benefits of this camp is the variety of classes available, catering to all levels. From basic turns to double jumps, skaters can choose classes that challenge them without overwhelming them. Each class is categorized by skill level, ensuring that skaters can select sessions that align with their current abilities. For those looking to take their skills to the next level, there are even advanced sessions focusing on double jumps and spin combinations.

Despite Vail’s reputation as a luxury destination, the camp itself is surprisingly affordable, especially when you consider the quality of instruction. The biggest expenses tend to be travel and lodging, but even these can be mitigated. Many participants opt to stay in Airbnbs, sharing accommodations with fellow skaters. This not only cuts costs but also enhances the overall experience, allowing for bonding and shared meals.

The coaching staff is another highlight. With big names like Gracie Gold and Max Aaron, skaters have the opportunity to learn from the best. Max Aaron’s classes, in particular, stood out to Julie for his hands-on, personalized approach. Even in larger groups, Max managed to provide individual feedback, making sure each skater left with something valuable to work on.

Other unique features of the camp is the opportunity for video analysis, where skaters can watch themselves perform and receive detailed feedback from coaches and a mock competition that provided an opportunity to showcase programs and receive feedback from the coaching staff.

Julie’s Advice: For those considering attending next year, a few tips: Sign up early—this camp is gaining popularity fast. Also, plan your travel carefully. With Vail’s high altitude and unpredictable weather, flight delays are common. If possible, take an extra day off work to allow for any unexpected changes in your itinerary. Finally, make the most of the social aspect of the camp. Staying with other skaters not only reduces costs but also makes the experience more enjoyable.

The Experience Camp

Meet our Camper: Kim Gallaway is a competitive skater at the adult gold level. This was Kim’s first ever camp experience and she didn’t attend with ‘must have’ goals per say but rather really wanted to enjoy her time on the ice and fix her camel spin.

Location: This camp has a couple of locations including Cape Cod, MA and Palm Springs, CA. Kim attended the Cape Cod location.

Duration: 2.5 days with a welcome reception the night before

Structure: Each day follows a basic structure but allows for customization and private lessons. The camp also had social activities and planned meals included.

Coaches: Gracie Gold, Randy Gardner, Nancy Kerrigan, Jeremy Abbott, Elin Schran to name a few

Kim’s Thoughts: Attending this camp was a heartwarming experience that exceeded all my expectations. Imagine being surrounded by like-minded adult skaters, regardless of skill level, coming together to share in the joy of skating. This camp wasn’t just about improving techniques; it was about creating connections, building confidence, and finding a supportive community.

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming and filled with positive energy, thanks in part to the wonderful coaches. The camp kicked off with a cocktail reception, where we met the coaches and fellow skaters. This set the tone for the next few days—fun, friendly, and inclusive.

The structure of the camp was well-balanced with both on-ice and off-ice activities. We had dynamic warm-ups, ice flow sessions, and a variety of classes tailored to different skills, from basic edges to advanced jumps. One of the highlights was the group routines led by Randy, where we learned choreography similar to what you’d see on Stars on Ice. It was a blast working together to perfect these routines, and it truly felt like being part of a team.

Private lessons with the coaches were an incredible opportunity to get personalized tips and feedback. Jeremy Abbott, for instance, helped me tremendously with my camel spin, offering insights that I’ve been trying to master for ages.

The social aspect of the camp was just as enriching as the skating. We had catered lunches with Q&A sessions, where the coaches shared personal stories and advice. In the evenings, we enjoyed dinners together and even had a bonfire on the beach, which was a perfect way to unwind and bond with the other campers.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the camp was the diversity in skill levels. There were skaters who hadn’t been on the ice in years, alongside others who had double jumps. But no matter where you fell on that spectrum, there was a place for you. The supportive environment ensured that everyone, from those who were just getting back into skating to those aiming to refine their technique, felt encouraged and valued.

Kim’s Advice: For anyone considering The Experience camp, my advice is simple: just go for it. Don’t worry about whether you’re “good enough.” This camp is more about the experience, the camaraderie, and the joy of skating. It’s a place where you can reconnect with your love for the sport, make new friends, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

Lake Placid Adult Skating Week

Meet our Camper: Alyssa Ardai is a competitive skater at the adult bronze level. This was her first camp experience, and she attended without specific goals—just the desire to enjoy the experience and connect with other adult skaters.

Location: The Olympic Center in Lake Placid, New York. This annual camp happens every August and hosts a week of adult classes.

Duration: The camp offers flexibility with 1, 3, or 5-day packages with an exhibition on Saturday that campers may participate in.

Structure: There is a flat fee to cover all ice time. Classes, both on and off-ice, are available for a small fee per class, making it easy to customize your experience. Alyssa spent most of her days on the ice, starting around 9 a.m. and taking only brief breaks throughout the day. The structure allowed her to maximize time on the ice while still pacing herself to avoid burnout. It’s tempting to skate non-stop, but she found it important to take breaks and recharge, especially when sessions run as late as 7 p.m.

Coaches: Paul Wylie, Mimi Wacholder, Tracy Prussack Nicola, Karen Courtland Kelly, and Robin Miller, to name a few.

Alyssa’s Thoughts: If you’re an adult figure skater looking for a unique blend of intensive training, scenic surroundings, and camaraderie with fellow skaters, the Lake Placid Adult Skating Week is a must-try. The camp offered a variety of classes ranging from jumps and spins to edges and footwork. The smaller class sizes meant personalized attention and the chance to try new things, like spins I’d never attempted before.

One of the highlights was working with new coaches. While I was familiar with one coach going in, the variety of teaching styles and approaches was refreshing. Even when learning familiar techniques, hearing them explained differently made a big impact. I particularly enjoyed a class on edge work and jumps, where I picked up new tips for different entries.

There were also social activities like a curling event, which was a blast despite my total lack of experience. Additionally there was a group barbecue hosted by a long-time camp participant, which was a great chance to mingle outside of the rink. The sense of community is strong, and it’s easy to make connections with skaters of all levels.

The camp culminates in a show on Saturday, which is open to all levels. There’s no pressure, and it’s a fun way to wrap up the week. Participants ranged from beginners to those working on double jumps, but the atmosphere was supportive and inclusive. No matter your skill level, you can join in and perform in front of your fellow skaters.

Alyssa’s Advice: If you’re considering attending Lake Placid, go with an open mind and be ready to try new things. Don’t worry if a class seems above or below your level—the coaches are adaptable and will meet you where you are. And don’t forget to pack for the theme days if you’re into that; I felt a bit out of place in my PJs on theme day when others weren’t as dressed up!

Overall, the Lake Placid Adult Skating Camp gets a big thumbs up from me. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in skating, learn from talented coaches, and enjoy the stunning surroundings of Lake Placid. Whether you’re there to improve your skills or just to have fun, it’s a week well spent on the ice.

How to Craft Your Best Figure Skating Program (Part 2)

by Christina | Aug 24, 2024 | Skating Essentials

If you missed Part 1, of How to Craft a Figure Skating Program, you can find it here.

Putting It All Together

At this point, I’m on the ice with the choreographer, working through the program in three to four segments. We focus on the transitions, steps, and turns needed to get in and out of the planned elements. I’ve really enjoyed working with this particular choreographer, both last year and this year, as she has a strong vision and is very detail-oriented. She gives me specific instructions on how each move needs to happen to achieve the edge quality, ice coverage, and visual lines we’re aiming for. At my skating level, we try to balance difficulty without sacrificing performance quality. She’s also particular about ensuring that every movement has a purpose and that I take the time to execute each element to the fullest.

Once we’re satisfied with the complete program, the real work begins for me! I return to the music and work with a professional editor to finalize the cut, making any adjustments needed based on the choreography.

I Have Nothing to Wear

Oh wait, I do! Actually, I start thinking about the competition dress once the music is selected. It’s important to consider this early to ensure there’s time to have a custom dress made if needed. As an adult, I generally prefer custom-made dresses since many off-the-rack options are designed for a child’s body. That said, I’m not an elite skater on the international stage where my competitions are broadcast on TV, so I try to wear a dress for more than one season if possible. This assumes the music isn’t drastically different and I’m not portraying a character. I may change things up by altering the dress, adding or subtracting gloves, or matching tights to the dress instead of using skin-colored tights.

Let the Run-Throughs Begin

Once I have my program and final music, it’s time to incorporate run-throughs into my regular training schedule. Skating a clean program requires a lot of muscle memory, so when you’re in a competition situation, you’re no longer thinking—you’re simply executing. When I first begin a new program, I’ll run through it without adding the elements, meaning I’ll simply mark the jumps and spins without actually performing them. This helps me get used to the movements and pacing of the program as it relates to the music. I gradually add in the elements, often starting with spins and then moving on to jumps. During regular training, I’ll practice the jumps and spins where and how they happen in my program, so I get used to the new entrances, patterns, and pacing. Before long, it’s ‘ready or not time,’ and I start doing complete run-throughs with all elements. These early run-throughs are NOT pretty and are often not in time with the music, but going through this process helps build confidence in a new program. Whether I’m practicing on my own or during a lesson, I almost always run the complete program start to finish, no matter what happens or how bad it is. I do this for two reasons: to push through the uncomfortable moments and to prepare for the unexpected. You never know what might happen during a competition, and you need to practice how to pick up a program after a mistake so you can handle it under pressure.

Fine-Tuning

Ideally, I like about a month or so to run through the program and get comfortable with it before fine-tuning begins. By this, I mean making any adjustments needed—editing things in or out of the program because they’re not working for whatever reason. I’m fortunate that my skating club offers both exhibitions and a judges’ critique. The exhibitions are like mock competitions where you wear your competition outfit (also an opportunity to ensure it works without needing alterations), go through a very short warm-up session, and then perform a solo program on the ice just like in a competition. The judges’ critiques follow the same process, but you perform in front of one or two judges or a judge and a technical specialist who spend a few minutes with you post-event, sharing feedback on your program. Last season after the critique I brought the feedback (along with a video of the performance) back to my coach to see if he thought additional adjustments were warranted.

Incorporating the feedback and practicing continues throughout the season. Some skaters, myself included, do what’s called back-to-back run-throughs. This is where you literally run your full program with all elements, and the second you finish, you go back to your starting position and run it through a second time. I do this to build endurance—not critical at my level, but for many higher-level skaters, this helps build the fitness needed for a more demanding program. Additionally, at higher levels, you may travel more for competitions, and in some locations, altitude can be a factor.

If you’ve been on this journey with me so far, stay tuned as we prepare to take this program to competitions!

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