Figure skater Gleb Lutfullin, who trains in Alexei Mishin’s group, shared his thoughts on Evgeni Plushenko’s show after an interview with socialbites.ca. The exchange offered a window into how a young athlete perceives spontaneity on stage versus the structured cadence of competition, and how such experiences shape a skater’s approach to both performance and training.
At the outset, Lutfullin admitted a sense of surprise. He said he felt surprisingly fresh, not fatigued, even after a four-minute free program in the show. The energy of a live audience was palpable, yet the absence of the intensity that typically accompanies a competitive event kept his mind at ease. He noted that he could have easily extended the routine by a few more elements if the moment allowed, signaling a level of ease that can be rare in the pressure cooker of high-stakes skating. His aim was simple and clear: to entertain the audience and leave them with a memorable impression. As he put it, skating in a show is often more relaxed than skating in a contest, where nerves and anticipation can sharpen the edge of every move. When asked about the difference, he highlighted a quieter confidence that comes from performing without the looming scoreboard and the pressure of rankings.
Looking ahead, Lutfullin expressed enthusiasm for future show opportunities. He described how the experience cultivates a steady calm on the ice, a steadiness that supports controlled breathing and consistent momentum throughout each program. This calmness, he believes, carries over into competitive outings, helping a skater stay centered when the audience and judges are watching closely. The 19-year-old also stressed that ongoing exposure to show formats could contribute to more polished performances by refining rhythm and breath control. Consequently, he would welcome participation in new shows, viewing them as a chance to strengthen mental resilience and on-ice stamina that can translate into sharper performances when it matters most.
The recent achievements in the domestic circuit add further context to his remarks. Lutfullin earned the bronze medal at a Russian Grand Prix event held in Kazan, posting a total of 257.63 points across two programs. The result underscores his rising trajectory within a highly competitive environment and reflects a growing ability to blend technical execution with expressive skating. The experience of competing at this level provides practical lessons in program construction, timing, and the management of time on ice—elements that are crucial for maintaining consistency across sequences and components.
Reflecting on broader experiences within Mishin’s coaching group, Lutfullin has previously discussed what it takes to compete effectively while training in a high-demand environment. He emphasized the value of steady, purposeful practice that builds technical reliability and artistic alignment with the group’s standards. The emphasis remains on long-term development, integrating program choices, edge control, and the stamina required to sustain peak performance through a season. This holistic approach, shared with teammates and guided by Mishin’s philosophy, lays a foundation for progress that is visible during moments of immediate competition and in the quiet confidence of rehearsal sessions.