Figure skating, the history behind the jumps: names, inventors and execution | Milano Cortina 2026
Figure skating captivates millions with its elegance and flair. Athletes create mesmerizing performances, harmonizing their movements with music while adorned in elaborate costumes. But what truly steals the show? The jumps.
These athletic marvels elicit gasps and applause from fans worldwide, leaving a lasting impression at every competition leading up to the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. But what are the six primary jumps that ignite the excitement? And where do these unusual names originate?
Figure skating features six principal jumps: the loop (or Rittberger), Axel, Salchow, Lutz, toe loop, and flip. Additionally, there’s the Euler, typically used as a transitional jump. These jumps are characterized as either edge jumps—loop, Axel, and Salchow—or toe jumps—toe loop, Flip, and Lutz—based on how they’re executed.
The origin of each name often pays homage to its inventor. Take the Rittberger, created by German skater Werner Rittberger in 1910, which seemingly defied gravity when he successfully landed a triple version decades later. Meanwhile, the iconic Axel honors Norwegian innovator Axel Paulsen, who introduced it in 1882, forging a path for future risks like the quadruple Axel, successfully completed by Ilia Malinin in 2022.
Ulrich Salchow pioneered his namesake jump in 1909, using innovative techniques that remain integral to figures today. The Lutz jump, another famous move, traces its roots to Alois Lutz in 1913, while Bruce Mapes contributed both the toe loop and flip in the 1920s. Finally, the Euler adds another layer of complexity, enabling unique jump combinations.
As we countdown to the thrilling events of Milano Cortina 2026, understanding the history, naming, and execution of these jumps enhances the appreciation of the artistry within professional figure skating. Dive into the world of jumps and witness athletic prowess at its finest!
