POWER PLUS SKATING Larry Gazdig. Lambeth (ON), London Power Skating School, c1983. Distributed by London Power Skating School, R.R. #2, Lambeth, Ont., N0L 1S0. 147pp, paper, spiral bound, $12.95. Professional, Parents. Reviewed by Michael Freeman. Volume 12 Number 2 1984 March Gazdig begins from a simple, unarguable premise that is traditionally ignored. You cannot succeed at figure skating, speed skating, or more particularly hockey, unless you can skate. The program that he developed and clearly elucidates in this practical text, will teach the novice to skate forwards and backwards and do crossovers and side stops in both directions. Too many aspiring NHLers and Olympic skaters, impatient to get on with their specialty do not learn these fundamental movements and consequently develop bad skating habits that haunt them throughout their careers. The author leaves nothing to chance. He provides practical advice on choosing and fitting skates and valuable tips on the right and wrong methods of sharpening skates. The essential aspects of the "Art of Skating" are clearly illustrated, accompanied by concise descriptions of the basic principles involved in each technique. The remaining half of the book outlines a logical progression of innumerable "manoeuvres and drills," which take the pupil step-by-step through the various grade levels of power skating. The last chapter includes a series of tests that enable coaches to assess their pupils' progress. An ideal teaching tool for the coach or dedicated parent. Michael Freeman, Downsview S. S., Downsview, ON.