Do Axels and Lutzes are two of the most difficult jumps in figure skating. An Axel is a jump where the skater takes off from a forward outside edge and rotates 1 1/2 times in the air before landing on a backward outside edge on the same foot. A Lutz is a jump where the skater takes off from a backward outside edge and rotates 1 1/2 times in the air before landing on a forward outside edge on the same foot. Both jumps require a great deal of skill and practice to master.