What is figure skating? 

Figure skating is a popular sport and form of artistic expression where individuals or groups perform intricate and graceful routines on ice skates.  Skaters perform a variety of jumps, spins, and footwork to music accompanied by choreography. There is a strong emphasis on precision and artistic presentation.  

What is Learn To Skate?

Basic Learn to Skate is a foundational program designed to teach beginners the essential skills and techniques of ice skating. It covers fundamental moves like gliding, stopping, turning, and balance, providing the building blocks for further advancement in figure skating or other ice-related activities. Interested in learning to skate? Learn more about our Learn to Skate program.

How do I progress beyond basic Learn to Skate?

After Learn To Skate, there is a bridge class. The class will focus on the key areas of teaching fundamental skills, artistic development, fitness and conditioning, progressive levels, and competition preparation.

What are the basic progressions in ice skating skills?

The basic progressions include balance and stance, forward gliding, stopping, forward crossovers, backward skating, turning, edges, control, speed, and precision.  The progression varies from skater to skater.  It is important to have a solid foundation at each step before moving on to more advanced skills.

What is freestyle ice time?

Freestyle ice is for training, practice, and private/small group lessons for figure skaters. The skater must be with a coach or at least basic 6 to participate on freestyle ice. 

Why do I need a private lesson? 

Private lessons are designed to work with the level of the individual skater to continue progression. Private lessons with a coach will be needed if the skater decides to participate in competitions.

What is a small group lesson? 

Small group lessons work with a few skaters who are learning the same skating skill. The group environment makes for a more cost-effective lesson. 

What is an edge class?  

Edges refer to the skater's blade when skating. When performing or competing, skaters are judged on the precision and control of their edges.  

What is a power class? 

A power class in ice skating focuses on building strength, speed, and agility on the ice.  The aim is to help skaters become more efficient and effective in their movements, whether they are involved in figure skating, hockey, or recreational skating.  Power class often includes drills and exercises that challenge skaters to push themselves to their physical limits while maintaining control and proper technique.

What is an off-ice class?

These classes are designed to help figure skaters improve their skills, strength, and conditioning without being on the ice.  Classes may include stretching, strength training, and endurance exercises.

What is a spin class?

Spin classes involve training or practice for spinning while maintaining a centered and controlled position on the ice.  Spins are essential components of figure skating programs.  They require a combination of balance, flexibility, and technique.

What is an off-ice spin class?

Spins are practiced using an off-ice spinner to simulate spinning on the ice. 

What is an uncaptured moves class?

This class works on skills, jumps, or spins that are needed in the skaters’ program that have not been mastered in a small group class.  Examples might be spread eagles, shoot the duck, and split jumps.

What is a performance class?

Performance class develops the skaters’ on-ice presence for a competition. The coach will help with choreography and presentation in the skaters’ programs.

What is a figure skating club and when do I need to join?

Figure skaters belong to clubs as a part of the US Figure Skating organization. The clubs offer sponsorship and other opportunities to benefit skaters including level testing and competing. There are various clubs near our academy, including the Tampa Bay Skating Club, where some of our skaters are members.

When can a skater start competing?

Competitions are for skaters of all levels from Snowplow Sam and up.  Please talk to your coach about developing a program for competition.

Where are figure skating competitions and how do I register?

Skating competitions are listed on websites such as Entryeeze.com and usfsaonline.org   Competitions are listed a few months in advance. Please consult your coach for more information and direction on registering for competition levels.  

How do I join the Academy? What does the academy fee cover?

Our ice skating academy is where we cultivate a passion for ice skating in enthusiasts of all ages. When you become a part of our academy, you gain access to professional instruction and a host of exclusive perks, including membership in the US Figure Skating Learn to Skate program and the option to acquire our signature academy jackets.

For new students, the academy fee covers the membership to US Figure Skating Learn to Skate and an academy blue jacket. Students may also join the academy and choose not to order a jacket. 

For renewing students, the academy fee covers renewal to US Figure Skating Learn to Skate and an academy white practice jacket, also with an option to not order a jacket. 

For homeschool students, the academy fee covers membership to US Figure Skating Learn to Skate.

Ready to enroll in the Academy? Please visit our Academy Enrollment page and join today!