What is a loop jump and how is it different from a Salchow?

Loop vs. Salchow: What Sets Them Apart

A loop jump is a takeoff from the back outside edge of your skating foot, launching you into the air without changing feet mid-rotation. You land back on the same back outside edge you launched from — which is actually what makes it tricky. Your body has to travel in a complete circle on the ice before you even leave it.

A Salchow, by contrast, takes off from the back inside edge and lands on the back outside edge of the opposite foot. So you're essentially switching feet in the air. This makes it feel more like a jump where you're pushing yourself away from the ice in a different direction.

The loop feels more compact and circular because your path on the ice traces that loop shape. The Salchow has a broader, more linear feel because you're traveling across your body as you rotate.

At Pre-Preliminary and Preliminary levels, both jumps are fundamental, but many skaters find the Salchow easier to learn first since that change of feet feels more natural. The loop requires really solid edge control and the ability to load all your momentum into a tight takeoff — it demands patience and precision.

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