Basic Skills
The Basic Skills Program is designed by U.S. Figure Skating to be the best beginning ice skating program that serves the needs of both the recreational and competitive skater. The curriculum is designed to keep skaters enthusiastic about learning from the time they begin lessons until the time they reach their goals. Whether their goal is to achieve Olympic fame or simply enjoy the recreational benefits of skating, the Basic Skills Program is the place to start!
By using this comprehensive development program, skating schools and ice facilities will be able to draw more skaters onto the ice. Skaters, instructors and directors will benefit from this structured approach. Ice facilities will be used, enrollment will increase, and skaters of all ages and abilities will be able to participate in this lifelong sport.
Thank you for choosing the U.S. Figure Skating Basic Skills Program. If you have any questions or concerns, please e-mail Senior Director of Membership Susi Wehrli-McLaughlin.
The objectives of the program are:
- To provide a fun and safe skating experience for the beginner as well as the more advanced skater
- To teach correct technique of the simple basic elements
- To promote health and physical fitness
- To enable all participants to achieve the skills necessary to either skate for fun the rest of their lives or to move competently into the U.S. Figure Skating advanced test and/or competitive structure
WHO: Developed by U.S. Figure Skating and approved by the Professional Skaters Association (PSA), the Basic Skills Program is available to any member figure skating club, ice facility, recreation department, individual skating instructor, college, university or other organization. Club affiliation is not a requirement to use the program.
WHAT: This exciting program consists of Snowplow Sam, Basic Skills, Free Skate, Hockey, Adult, Dance, Synchronized, Pairs, Theatre On Ice, Artistry in Motion, Speed Skating and Special Olympics group class curricula. Upon completion of each level, the skater should be equipped with the necessary knowledge and technique to advance to the next level.
- For more information about the 12 curricula that comprise the Basic Skills Program, download the Basic Skills Program Overview (PDF). For the Spanish translations of the Basic Skills, Free Skate and Snowplow Sam curricula, click here (PDF).
WHERE: Basic Skills classes are conducted at more than 900 registered ice facilities across the United States and internationally.
WHY: Basic Skills was developed to create an interest in skating activity across the nation, enhance the quality of skating and increase enrollment for the benefit of the skating industry and U.S. Figure Skating.
PROGRAM FEES: There is a one time only set-up fee of $25 to register a new program. Administrative materials (all items needed to run a Basic Skills program) are available at no cost. Additional support materials are offered at a nominal charge. While the additional materials are not necessary to run a skating school, they have proven to be quite helpful to many groups that have used them. See what's available by downloading a price list and order form (PDF).
REGISTRATION FEES: It is only $10 to join. For more information, visit the Join Basic Skills page.
