Everyone Is Going Nuts Over This Olympian’s Triple Axel, And Here’s Why

On February 11, 2018, Mirai Nagasu became the first American woman to land a triple axel at the Olympics, and the only other American woman to do so in competition.

The axel jump is considered the most technically difficult jump in single figure skating, making the triple axel especially difficult to perform. When Nagasu pulled it off beautifully during the 2018 Olympic Games, she made history, prompting fans to scream in acclamation and inspiring countless news outlets to sing the praises of her incredible achievement.

Watch as Nagasu nails the triple axel and becomes a skating legend.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4pyV0G7HeEc

So why is it such a huge accomplishment? As Vox explains, an understanding of physics is crucial to successful executions. Skaters have to generate enough vertical and rotational velocity with their bodies on the ice during takeoff, or else they won’t be able to spin fast enough for three turns.

So why is it such a huge accomplishment? As Vox explains, an understanding of physics is crucial to successful executions. Skaters have to generate enough vertical and rotational velocity with their bodies on the ice during takeoff, or else they won't be able to spin fast enough for three turns.

YouTube / Vox

The triple axel jump length is shorter than the double axel length because skaters have to save that energy for snapping into faster rotations.

The triple axel jump length is shorter than the double axel length because skaters have to save that energy for snapping into faster rotations.

YouTube / Vox

Skaters also need a lot of upper body strength to keep their arms tucked in to stop from slowing down in the spin.

Skaters also need a lot of upper body strength to keep their arms tucked in to stop from slowing down in the spin.

YouTube / Vox

Learn more about what it takes to pull off a triple axel below.

I was already pretty awestruck by Nagasu’s performance, but learning what it took for her to do it makes it even more impressive. Congratulations, Nagasu, on your history-making feat!

Here's How To Make Your Favorite Ice Cream Truck Treats Before The Summer's Over: Click “Next Page” below!