So how do I get started in skating? 

Diving into the world of figure skating head first can be a little overwhelming, so here's what you need to know to begin your skating journey! 
Find Your Coach 
         Not quite clicking with me, or my lesson availability is not the best fit right now? No worries! The Fort Collins Figure Skating Club has a variety of wonderful instructors, and you can find them all linked below! Regardless of if you choose to work with me or not, I will do all that I can to help you find the resources you need and a good coaching match! 
         Not feeling ready for private lessons just yet? Consider starting with group Learn to Skate classes! Sign up is available for these through the E.P.I.C. website or through the recreator! 
How About Some Skates

Ice skating is a form of art, and for ice skaters, having the right pair of skates is like having a good set of brushes or paints. If you're just beginning skating, or trying it out for the first time, it's a good idea to start with rentals ($3 at Edora Pool and Ice Center facility). However, if you feel that you've had a good taste of the sport and want to persue it further, it's time to look into your own pair of skates. Learn more about getting your first pair of skates on the "Tools and Resources" page. 
What will I be learning? 
Everyone starts with the basics, working their way up through the Learn to Skate USA level requirements, and then the basic skills components! After that, we begin working on freestyle skills! To discover more about what this entails, here are the LTS USA and US Figure Skating programs! 
How Do I Know What Path to Take with Skating? 
 One of the best things about figure skating is that there are many different routes that can be taken in this sport. In figure skating, there is something for everyone! 
Finding what path you want to go down should be solely decided by one thing: what you ENJOY. 
  • Love the jumps, spins, and athleticism? Maybe Freestyle is for you!
  • Can't get enough of the glides and edges? Try some ice dance! 
  • Want to skate with a buddy? Think about pairs!
  • Enjoy teamwork? Join Synchronized Skating! 
  • Love acting and emotional expression? Get involved with showcase. 
  • Want to get started in testing? Let's hop on the USFS test track. 
  • Adaptive! Skating is for everyone!
*Keep in mind that you don't necessarily have to choose! If you love it all, we can bounce around! 
*Whether you want to compete or just keep things recreational, I am all for it! 
Most importantly, take time to explore all the different aspects that the sport has to offer! Below are some helpful sites to check out when thinking about what it is that you love! 
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"What seems so hard now will one day be your warm up."
~anonymous 

Let's Get Started! 

What should I know before my first skating lesson? 
Be Prepared! 
  • Wear layers! A light jacket, long sleeve shirt or tee shirt, leggings or pants, and a sweatshirt are probably best. Dress warmly because you can always remove layers! 
  • Bring some gloves. Mittens or thin gloves will do fine, so will thicker gloves, but either way you'll want something on your hands! 
  • Wear some long socks, your feet will thank you. 
  • First time skaters and beginners are recommended to wear a helmet. If you don't have one, no problem! Helmets can be rented at the skate rental desk for free. 
  • Bring your open mind, wonderful personality, and get ready for some fun!
What to Expect: 
  • After a brief introduction, we'll either review a little bit off the ice with our skates on, or hop on the ice for a brief, low-key assessment of where you're at, and where you want to begin! 
  • I will have some resources to give you on the first day! 
  • If you'd like to continue lessons, we'll work together on creating a lesson plan, some short and long term goals, as well as a consistent lesson schedule. 
  • I like to meet with skaters and their trusted adult occasionally (a couple times a year) for about ten minutes before or after a lesson (any time that works) to discuss goals and skating plans in a quick meeting off the ice so that all of your ice time goes to good use :) 

Let's Glide!!