What is Learn to Skate?

“Learn to Skate” is a comprehensive Ice Skating Program that consists of lessons covering the basic elements for every type of skating (hockey, figure skating, power and sometimes speed), and testing to measure the skaters’ progress. The program is based on the United States Figure Skating “Basic Skills Learn to Skate” program. The program is designed to be exciting, rewarding, safe and FUN! The classes enable the skaters to skate for fun or advance to skating in the USA Hockey, US Speed Skating or US Figure Skating programs. Learn to Skate is for all ages.

Sherwood Ice Arena offers a wide variety of skating programs for all ages and ability levels. Our group lessons are structured to teach beginning skaters through more advanced skaters. Group instruction includes:

• Thirty-minute group class
• Skate rentals
• UNLIMITED FREE public sessions for beginners in Basic 4 and below while you are enrolled in Learn to Skate (the exception is Friday evening’s Public Sessions) (skates not included)
• Of course, Free public sessions on the day of your class (skates included the day of your class)
• Four free guest passes for your to bring a friend or family member with you (skates not included)
• Progress Report at the end of your first month of lessons
• Certificate of accomplishment at the end of the semester
• USFS Badge Testing at the end of the semester if desired (for a nominal fee, pre-registration required)

Note: All missed classes and free Public Session MUST be used in the current semester.

A student may be moved up or down by their coach during current session in order to better facilitate the individual students’ needs. Students will graduate to the next level of the program when they show mastery at the coaches discretion of their current level’s objectives. Student may not sign up for the next level class without previous coaches approval.

For questions and more information, please contact Judy Bowman, Skating Director.

Click here  for the current Program guide with lots of parental information.

Click here for a sample of our current class schedule and times

How much does it cost?

Most group classes are $11 per class payable at the beginning of a semester with an additional single dollar admin fee for the semester. Most semesters are two month sessions.

What is Testing?

When skaters are able to demonstrate the skills in a level (Basic 1, Freeskate, Snowplow Sam, etc.) the instructor will notify them that they are ready to test. Test papers are purchased at the front desk and taken to their instructor. A certified instructor will give the skating test. When a skater passes a test, they return the test paper and receive a badge verifying they have passed the level. Tests are registered at the USFS’ National Headquarters in Colorado. Skaters who pass the Basic test are registered for their first year as members of USFS, along with receiving a patch, a subscription to the USFS Ice Skating magazine and USFS Insurance.

How do I Get Started?

Register at the front desk at any time. Our classes run year round and the Sherwood Ice Arena Guest Services personnel at the front desk will help you find out how you or your children can get started!

 - Dress warmly with layers of clothing. Sweat pants and shirts, leggings, warm-up pants are ideal. Try not to be too bulky, this can make the skater uncomfortable and less likely to want to stay and learn. Even during the summer, you will need to dress warmly.

-  Bring gloves and a helmet (for children), bike helmets are acceptable. Helmets not required, but highly encouraged. Feet will feel best with lightweight socks (one pair) or tights.

What About Skates?

Rental skates are available and a very good way to start. Skating boots should fit snugly. If boots are too big, they will not provide proper support. We recommend figure skates for those just starting out. They are much easier to begin in and you can switch to hockey skates after you have developed your basic skills. Skates must fit in order for you to be successful.

How Long Will it Take to Learn to Skate?

Everyone can learn to skate. Every sport takes practice. Proper instructors and proper equipment can make the learning process more enjoyable. The more you dedicate yourself to skating, the faster you will progress, but be realistic. Do not compare the progress of others to yourself. We all learn at different rates.

Who Teaches the Classes?

Qualified Professional Instructors who are registered with the Professional Skaters Association and USFS. Instructors are available to answer questions at the end of class.

What If I Want to do More Advanced Skating?

We recommend for those interested in hockey to pass the Basic test (minimum) before attending “Learn to Play Hockey”. Those interested in Figure Skating may want to continue to progress through the advanced classes or may speak to any of our instructors about private lessons.

Class Tips:

- Fun for all ages

- Arrive at least 15 minutes early for lessons to put skates on.

- Instruction is ½ hour.

- All Skaters enrolled in LTS class can skate on Public Skate sessions anytime during semester for no admission fee. (Skates not included except for the day of your class). The exclusion is Friday night session. 

- As an added bonus skater in LTS classes (Basic 4 and below) can skate at any of our Public Sessions for free (exception: Friday evening), but skates are not included.

- Skaters will progress at their own rate.

- Skaters will learn in a positive, fun environment.

- When a skater learns the skills at one level, they take a test, receive a badge and move up to the next    level. Each level offers more difficult skills.

- NO food, drinks, or gum is allowed on the ice.

- Please consult a professional instructor before purchasing skates.

- Parents:  Please allow the instructors to conduct their class. Never walk on to the ice in shoes or shout instructions to your child from the door or over the glass.

- Praise every accomplishment of your child!  Keep it a positive, fun experience.

Click here  for the current Program guide with lots of parental information.