Everyone starts somewhere in skating!
It can be confusing at first- but I’m here to answer some quick questions.
Step 1- Equipment
Skates are so important, I can’t stress it enough. It is very important to make sure that you have a pair of good quality skates that meet your needs. Skates need to be stiff with ankle support as well as have the correct curvature to the blades in order to work well beyond going forwards and backward. I recommend getting fit for skates at Edges and Dreams at the South Suburban Sports Complex. Always get skates sharpened by hand by a trusted professional.
Finding a coach
I recommend for new skaters suggest trying a trial lesson with a few of your preferred coaches, (do a little research online, ask around, and so on) and see which coach/studio you think is the best fit. Some coaches are more competitive, some lean more towards show skating, theatre on ice, synchro group skating, ice dance, and some for pairs skating, for example.
My background lies in competitive well balanced singles with all the spins, jumps, and footwork. I have a studio of 27 skaters. 7 competitive kids, 3 competitive adults, 8 recreational kids, and 9 recreational adults. Of course when scouting for coaches make sure you click with them and feel like you would work well together. Just keep the other ones in the loop with your decision!
Skating on freestyle figure skating sessions
For most rinks, in order to skate on the freestyle figure skating sessions, you are required to pass your first to Ice Sports Industry tests (pre-alpha and alpha). You will need a coach to sign you up for these. Tests are every Thursday at 4:30pm at Family Sports Center.
1- Make an account at skateisi.org. You will receive a membership number. Please write this down and bring it to your test if possible.
2- Day of the test- wear a cute outfit if you want! Pay at the front desk for whichever ISI tests you plan to take and keep the receipt.
3- Skate on the ice with the receipt and ISI number and visit Gerry Lane at the boards. He is an elder man who will be sitting on the bench.
4- Gerry will ask you to perform each maneuver listed for the test and give applicable feedback as well as writing on your test sheet. He should tell you if you passed or failed at the end of the test.
5- The copy of the test sheet/certificate will come back to your coach in a week or two, alongside an embroidered patch.