programs



Information for Skaters

How do I learn to skate?

Learning to skate is actually quite easy and fun. It requires a little determination, a lot of practice and no fear of falling down! Before you know it, you will be gliding around -- forward and backwards -- able to show off to your family and friends what you can do on the ice. Whether your goal is to learn to go backwards, land a Salchow, spin really fast, improve your hockey skating skills, do a graceful arabesque or even a triple Axel, we've got just the place for you to start! Remember, every champion had to begin with a few easy lessons...just like you.

Where do I go?


The U.S. Figure Skating Basic Skills Program is the learn-to-skate program of the national governing body of figure skating. We have established skating programs in more than 800 facilities across the nation. Go to the search engine and type in your zip code, and registered rinks across the country will appear. Contact a facility near you and ask about its Basic Skills group class schedule, registration information and the price of lessons. Most group beginner lessons are structured in six- or eight-week sessions, and there is usually room available for classes that meet your current ability.
What to expect?

Follow these simple tips to get the most out of your skating lessons:

    1. Listen attentively. Try the skill, try it again, ask a question if you don't understand, and try it again. Your instructor should be able to show you the skill, bear it down into easy steps, and offer a few suggestions for quick mastery.
    2. Be a courteous skater, watch where you are going, and always skate in control.
    3. Be prepared for your lesson with the correct fitting skates, warm attire and gloves or mittens.
    4. Be on time! Arrive at least 15 minutes before class time.
    5. Relax, smile, and have fun!

What will I get?

When you register for the U.S. Figure Skating Basic Skills Program, you will receive:

  • Official U.S. Figure Skating Basic Skills membership card
  • A brightly colored record book with stickers to track your progress through the lessons
  • A membership year patch
  • Sport accident insurance
  • General information about ice skating
  • Instructor manual (for all instructors, assistants and directors)
(Some Basic Skills participants will receive "Certificates of Achievement," seen here, from those programs that choose to purchase them from U.S. Figure Skating.)

What about skates? New, used or rental?

The boots should provide a snug fit. A skate needs to be an ext