The three-turn discussion in the On Ice Skaters forum reminded me that I really think waist twists are vital to figure skating. The motion is similar to turning to get something off a desk to our right or left without moving our chair. That shoulders-against-hips twist is used for edges, turns, spins and jumps, plus it helps build core stability in the skater's body.
Add slow upper-body twists to your off-ice workout, so that you get the flexibility and strength to turn the shoulders without the hips and lower body.
Here are some ways to add it to your off-ice workout:
. Wii Fit and other video exercise games include these exercises. Make a workout.
. Yoga Warrior pose
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZKhTKDXo3c/. Old-school waist twists:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTZYMaO3z-A/ (Little too fast, but you get the idea)
. Twist and hold, then try to walk forward - it's hard, but that's what you have to do for three turns, so give it a try!
I think twisting and holding for 20-30 seconds per rep brings the best results. Start with a few short sets and then increase the counts.