Which maneuver helps a skater gain positional advantage against an opponent?

The maneuver that helps a skater gain positional advantage against an opponent is cross-over turns. This technique involves the skater smoothly transitioning their weight and crossing one leg over the other while turning, allowing them to maintain speed and control during sharp turns. By mastering cross-over turns, skaters can navigate corners more effectively and accelerate out of those turns, giving them an edge over opponents who may struggle to maintain speed and balance.

Cross-over turns also enable skaters to position themselves strategically on the track. By using this technique, a skater can effectively cut in front of an opponent, blocking their path or setting themselves up for a potential scoring opportunity in the game. In contrast, the other options, while they might have specific uses in skating or serve particular purposes, do not specifically provide the same level of strategic advantage in positional play against opponents as cross-over turns do.