Learn to Skate

Class Fees

The 2023-24 class fee for the school year contracts at either Pleasant Arena or Highland Arena is $118 for an 8-week contract.

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​​Class Descriptions

All class levels must be taken in order. Skaters who have passed Basic 4 are also invited to enroll in our Academy program.

 

​All participants will be evaluated on the first day of class and may be shifted to the appropriate class for their skill level.

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Intro to Skating

This level is designed for young skaters who have little to no experience on skates. It uses the Snowplow Sam curriculum and will develop preliminary coordination and strength to maneuver on the ice. This class is designed for skaters who are 8 years old and younger, who have never skated before. Skaters may start as young as 3 years old, though they must be excited to skate, be potty trained, and comfortable being in a class independently.

 

Skaters who complete Intro to Skating (Snowplow Sam 1 & 2) will advance to Basic 1.

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Basic Skills

The six levels of the basic skills program introduce the skater to the fundamentals of the sport. Basic skills classes are for kids from 6 to 14 years of age. Skaters who have never skated before and are 7 or younger should sign up for Intro to Skating. Skaters who have never skated before and are 8 and older should sign up for Basic 1. Beginners with some skating experience should register for Basic 1. Skaters will be evaluated and moved to the appropriate class. The Basic Skills level must be taken in order. More information can be found here.

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Skaters who complete Basic 6 will advance to Academy classes.

 

Adult Lessons

Skating is a sport that can be enjoyed at any age. Whether you skated as a child or have never been on the ice before, our classes are designed to teach adults how to skate or enhance the skills you already have. Classes are designed for skaters 14 years of age and up. More information can be found here.

 

Hockey Skating Skills

Classes are designed for hockey players who want to refine their skating skills to become a stronger and more agile player on the ice. Classes will focus on edges, crossovers, and turns that enhance power, speed, and agility for game situations. Instruction will be given based on Learn to Skate USA Hockey curriculum.  Participants should have passed Basic 1-Hockey 1 or an equivalent. Hockey 1 curriculum is covered in the Basic 1 and Intro to Skating classes.  A Learn to Skate USA membership is required. Participants are encouraged to wear hockey gear. No sticks or pucks allowed.

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Not sure which level to sign up for?

Follow this guide:​

• Children age 3-5

  • Register for Intro to Skating

• Children age 6-8

  • Has your child been on skates before?

    • No - Register for Intro to Skating

    • Yes - Can they skate 80 feet on their own and are comfortable on the ice? Register for Basic 1.

• Children age 9-14

  • Register for Basic 1

• Children age 14-18

  • Register for the Adult & Teen Skating Class

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Membership Requirement

This program requires the participant to hold membership with Learn to Skate USA, a non-profit collaboration between U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey and USA Speedskating. Membership fees of $18.50 are due once per year and are required to participate.  

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Ready to Register?​

Visit the “Register Now” page under the “Programs” tab to review registration instructions. 

 

Preparing for class

Equipment:

• Skates! Must have well-fitting figure skates or hockey skates. No double runners, please. Rentals skates are available at Highland Arena only. Adjustable skates are not recommended. When in their smallest size, skaters are often prone to falling backward.

• Helmets! Very strongly recommended for beginners. Any rounded back sport helmet will work.

• Warm clothes! Layers that are easy to move in and gloves or mittens to cover your hands. Winter jackets and snow pants work great for beginners. Hockey skaters should be dressed in full equipment.

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The First Lesson Day:

• Please arrive 15 minutes early to get skates laced and skaters prepared to take the ice.

• Pick up your skater’s name tag at the Welcome Desk.

• Move to the seating area surrounding the ice to put on skates.

• Skaters will meet in the area corresponding to the color on his/her name tag.

• The first class meeting will include an evaluation to ensure proper level.

• Depending on registration classes may be divided by age and/or ability within the level.

• Class size will not exceed 12.

• Intro to Skating and Basic 1, and beginning Adult & Teen skaters will meet off-ice (wearing equipment) for the first class orientation. Look for signs to direct you to the correct location or check with the Welcome Desk.

 

Health Precautions:

• If your skater does not feel well and/or has a fever please, do not attend class.

• Injury Policy

 

Other Reminders:

• Only registered skaters are allowed on the ice.

• Please watch from the comfort of the bleachers or lobby. Avoid standing close to the glass in the class area.  Player boxes are reserved for skaters and equipment.

 

Contact

Check out some of our frequently asked questions here.

You can view a list of our LTS policies here.

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More questions? Contact us at learntoskateusa@stpaulfsc.com.