Having watched Ashton use this technique, and then ALSO trying it for myself, I can validate the consistency aspect of this claim. I have a smaller frame than most and the glide was just not effective in allowing me to set up from the back of the circle. It created too much airtime in my initial push out of the back. The shuffle, on the other hand, helps me control this phase with an extra foot contact allowing me to maintain full control leading into the above mentioned 'phase #3'