Many figure skaters start around 5 years old. However, there are successful figure skaters who began in the 7-12 age range. If you’re willing to work to catch up to your peers if you need to, then don’t be discouraged by your age. [3] X Research source
You will want to find a rink nearby. Elite skaters spend 3-5 hours on the ice, and about 2-3 hours off the ice, nearly every day. If you are serious about becoming an Olympic - bound athlete you also need to consider the resources that each rink offers. Does the rink host any competitions or shows that could give you exposure? Do other higher-level skaters already train there? Sometimes a close by rink might not be able to let you reach your full potential.
Most Olympic skaters also have more than one coach. One for expression and the performance aspect and another for skills and jumping, depending on the level. Find a choreographer. You will need someone who is familiar with all the rules of skating and what elements would be allowed, as well as what elements you are good at. A good program can win almost by itself and a good choreographer can insure this. Find an off ice athletics pro/teacher as well. This person will be skilled in yoga and personal training and will be able to lead you in activities/drills to improve your on ice skating. Find a manager. This person will help organize all the paperwork and other things needed to compete. This person will keep track of your schedule and when the next competitions are as well as deadlines for entry forms. They can also help organize press and other media if you become famous.
Ice dancing is based on precise steps and interpreting rhythm. If you have good edges, turns, and musical ability, this may be for you! Ice dancing is now opening up as a solo competition as well but only pairs ice dancing is allowed in the Olympics. If you want to enter pair competitions, notify your head coach and set up tryouts for a partner. If you know you want to skate pairs or ice dance find a partner as soon as you can. Unfortunately guys are rare in this sport which makes them very valuable but also puts a lot of pressure on a girl to find a partner.
Plan with your coach for rest days, which are equally important.
Find the official figure skating organization with qualifying competitions in your region and join! Consider entering a relevant program. Camps and other programs are designed to assist developing and existing figure skaters with honing their craft.
You must place first, second or third in your country’s national championships to qualify. There have been exceptions when the National Figure Skating Board of a country has decided to send a skater that did not make the podium, as the United States did when they sent Ashley Wagner (fourth place overall) over Mirai Nagasu (third place overall) to the 2014 Winter Olympic Games. Start at a local level first and work your way up as you build upon your experience. The order normally goes; district, regional, sectional, national.
Warm up for 5-10 minutes, or until you break a sweat.
Figure skaters need to know how to jump, glide, spin, stop, and skip. Work on balance, coordination, agility, flexibility, and speed. Focus on daily athletic training both on and off the ice. [8] X Research source
Always stay hydrated and never skip breakfast. [9] X Research source Make sure you’re getting enough calcium, iron, and Vitamin D. Avoid excess salt or sugar. [10] X Research source Try juicing fruits and vegetables, grilling meat and fish, steaming vegetables, and adding seeds to cereal. Regularly consume lean proteins, whole-grain carbs, and other foods that will boost your immunity. [11] X Research source
Choose music that reflects your personality but also conforms to the musical selection rules of the event you’re preparing for. [13] X Research source
Your body needs time to recover and refresh both physically and mentally. [14] X Research source
Yoga and core work can help you improve your balance. Pilates utilizes core work and balance techniques, as well as stretching. [15] X Research source
Hard falls can cause injuries. [17] X Research source Even minor injuries should be treated to lessen the chances of developing into more severe chronic problems. [18] X Research source
For example, stroking - gliding forward from one skate to the other.
Private lessons Skates and costumes Rink cost for practice Travel expenses for competitions and recitals
Even for a young child the training is a full time job.
For example, your peers may be playing video games, going to the movies, or attending other social gatherings. Would you prefer to be socializing, or on the ice?
Have fun learning and realize that mastering a skill takes time. Don’t give up. Approach your coach about the issue, or try breaking from the rut by attending an ice skating seminar, for example. [24] X Research source
If you enjoy skating and fall short of that ultimate goal, congratulate yourself on the benchmarks you did achieve!
Pay attention to your mental health and let your family know if you need more resources. Everyone has periods when they aren’t sure they want to continue - when that happens, go to your supporters and be honest with yourself. If you do wish to continue, push through the low period with training and exercise, but also make time for things you need to avoid burnout, such as time listening to your favorite music or a professional massage.
