I have been working with both the electric motor and the manual model spinner machines from Bronson Products for a couple years and I believe that they are the training equipment of the future. Every club, organization, facility, even high-level skater will want them for their program/training. Each model has their own specific uses, however some of the exercises can be done on both spinners.
The motorized electric spinner is great for harness work, for practicing spin positions and especially for learning how to switch from one position to another during combination spins. In my experience there are many different exercises that can be efficiently executed and improved on with the motorized spinner. Harness work is where this spinner shines since the spinner creates the rotation for the skater and allows for a nice stable position to work on take-offs and air positions.
In contrast, the manual spinner is a very versatile and effective way to introduce spins, jumps, and edgework (believe it or not). Common basic positions can be taught i.e. the balance position before salchow or flip (back inside edge with free leg extended back and arms along the skating direction). Spin positions can be taught i.e. camel spin, sit spin, upright spins. Depending on where you place your foot on the spinner you also must lean and/or change pressure on your foot to maintain balance when you rotate which simulates forward and backward, inside and outside edges. For coaches who are experienced and knowledgeable in the mechanics of rotation, using this equipment is a joy. Once you start working with it you will wonder how you ever taught without it.
Kind Regards,
David Leatherwood