SPIN SQUARE UP

The "Spin Square Up" is a technique that is used to change from forwards to backwards, without any immediate aggressive push off any foot, and without a backwards crossover. The "Spin" refers to transitioning to backwards by facing your chest into the centre of the turn, rather than facing your butt to the cone, which is seen in the more commonly used technique of the "Pivot." The "Spin" is often used to maintain or even gain speed, rather than coming to an abrupt stop like on typical "Immediate Pivots."  With the "Square Up," we are simply squaring up with both skates gliding backwards, which can be done because you have to be ready to crossover either way, instead of the specific way that is dictated by your pivot. Another use for the "Spin Square Up" is when you are getting set for a 1 timer or a pass from a teammate, where a crossover or push off may affect your players ability to be ready for the puck. The "Spin Square Up" is most commonly used when players are just switching from forwards to backwards in open ice while reading plays and anticipating or waiting to react.