Axel jump

The Axel jump is a figure skating jump distinguished by being the only jump that begins with a forward takeoff. This forward takeoff, from the forward outside edge of one skate, results in the skater rotating an extra half turn in the air. Therefore, a single Axel is actually a one-and-a-half revolution jump, a double Axel is two-and-a-half revolutions, and so forth.

The Axel is considered one of the most difficult jumps in figure skating due to its forward takeoff, which requires significant power and precision. The takeoff edge must be very clean, and the skater must generate substantial height and rotation to successfully complete the jump.

The jump is named after Norwegian figure skater Axel Paulsen, who first performed the jump in 1882. While Paulsen's original jump involved a forward takeoff and landing on the opposite foot (similar to a waltz jump), the modern Axel jump involves landing on the back outside edge of the opposite foot.

The Axel jump is a staple in most competitive figure skating programs, with both men and women routinely attempting single, double, and triple Axels. The quadruple Axel, involving four-and-a-half rotations, is the most difficult jump in the sport and has been landed only a handful of times in competition as of late 2022.