Hey everyone.. I have been a figure skater for two years..going on three and I thought I could help answer some questions that people might ask
Q: Am I too old to start?
A: It is never too late to start anything, especially a sport like figure skating. At my rink, we have a 75 years old who competes. The oldest figure skater to date is 86 (wow). Yet, chances of going to the Olympics and Worlds competitons are slim to none..unless you started at five. Even then some who started since they could walk and talk hardly make it. On the other hand, Johnny Weir started figure skating at the age of 12 and he's a three time US National Champion and Olympian ( I think two), so who's to say you can't do this and you can't do that...really its up to YOU, it's just statistics.
Q: How can ballet benefit me in figure skating?
A: Really any dance can benefit you, not necessarily ballet in general; since jazz, modern and lyrical all have roots there. Anywho... ballet helps with flexibility for spirals, laybacks, biellmans, and other moves. It also helps with grace, posture and how you intrepret the music. Not only is figure skating a sport, it is an art.
Q: Is it expensive?
A: For those who only do it recreationally and for exercise, not really. When you start to take it seriously it can be. When you combine all the private lessons (cost depends upon teacher) freestyle ice which at my rink, stickers for a year are about $100+.. you probably are at 200 dollars and still rising at that alone. Then there is travel fees and competition dues for those who steer away from local competitions. Also, you have your costumes, music, and skates. Beginners skates cost $200 and under but for those who want to hit the big time skates could get up to $900.
Q: Private coaches.. how do I get one?
A: Usually you start off at group lessons depending if you're basic skills (usfsa 1-8) or Adult (1-4). Depending on how many coaches are at your rink and teaching those classes, you probably would get taught by all of those coaches so you could see what kind of teaching style you like. Some might get references from other parents, but its better to see for yourself. Once you find a coach you want to work with, you have a meeting, talk about your goals, he or she explains their expectations, set a date, and let the journey begin.
Q: group or private lessons?
A: Like stated before, you usually start off at group lessons, which is a great way to break the ice with the coaches and meet new people. It helps a lot because you can progress quickly and learn new things, whereas private lessons probably works on a particular thing until you master it. Private lessons are for those who are having trouble in their group classes or want to branch out and start competing.
Q: When should I get my blades sharpened?
A: Every five weeks for the skater who is serious. You will notice when you start to lose balance on a crossover when the foot starts to slide without control.
Q: Skating dresses and Apparel?
Here is a list of websites with skating apparel and dresses:
www.jerryskate.com
www.usfsa.org
www.shareneskatewear.com
www.glamourandglitterskatewear.com
Or try your local dance store or pro shop
for other information concerning competitions, partner search for pairs or just plan fun
www.usfsa.com
iceskatingaddict.com
iceskatingworld.com
sk8stuff.com.....the figure skating website
Remember to skate with your heart/soul and your body will follow. And don't be afraid to fall because if you don't fall you're not really learning anything.
Bye
