How to Do Crossovers

Most adult beginners can do basic forward crossovers within 4-8 weeks of regular practice (2-3 times per week). However, truly mastering crossovers with good form, power, and speed takes 3-6 months. Everyone progresses at different rates—some pick it up quickly, others need more time. The key is consistent practice and focusing on proper technique rather than rushing. Check our first 30 days guide for realistic timelines.

Crossovers feel awkward at first because the movement is completely unnatural—you're literally crossing one leg over the other while moving in a curve! This is normal. Common causes of awkwardness: not truly crossing over (stepping around instead), straight legs, looking down, or rushing the movement. Slow down, exaggerate the cross, bend your knees deeply, and keep your head up. The awkwardness fades with practice as your body learns the pattern.

Yes, absolutely! Forward crossovers are significantly easier and teach you the fundamental crossing pattern. Master forward crossovers first, then work on solid backward skating, and only then attempt backward crossovers. Trying to learn backward crossovers before you're ready leads to frustration and bad habits. Most coaches won't teach backward crossovers until you can do clean forward crossovers in both directions.

Completely normal! Almost everyone has a "good" direction and a "bad" direction. This is usually related to which leg is dominant and which direction feels more natural. The solution: practice your weak direction MORE than your strong direction. It will always feel harder, but the gap will narrow with dedicated practice. Many skaters spend 70% of their crossover practice time on their weak side to balance out the difference.

You're probably not pushing after the cross. Crossovers should generate speed, not kill it. After your inside foot crosses over, your outside foot must push powerfully under your body. If you're just crossing without pushing, you'll slow down. Focus on the push phase—it's what creates power and speed. Also check that your knees are bent deeply; straight legs can't generate power.

You don't need to "master" edges, but you should be comfortable with basic outside and inside edge glides. Crossovers use outside edges (skating foot) and inside edges (crossing foot), so understanding edges makes crossovers much easier. If you're struggling with crossovers, go back and practice edge work—it's the foundation. See our edges guide for detailed instruction.

Yes! Off-ice practice helps build muscle memory for the crossing pattern. Stand in place and practice lifting one foot and crossing it over the other. You can also do this while walking in circles. However, off-ice practice can't replicate the edge work and gliding aspects, so it's a supplement to on-ice practice, not a replacement. The crossing motion translates well, but you still need ice time to develop the full skill.

Fear of falling is common when learning crossovers because you're on one foot and tilted on an edge. Start slowly and use the boards for support if needed. Practice near the boards so you can grab them if you feel unstable. As you build confidence, move away from the boards. Remember: falling is part of learning! Review our falling safely guide to build confidence. Most crossover falls are minor—you're moving slowly and close to the ice already.