Figure Skating
Learn To Skate Fundamentals
Learn what skaters will learn in each class and specific level course by reviewing these handouts. Class details and to register.
Basic Skills
Basic Skills Program Description Ages 6-16
These are introductory classes for 6-16yr olds. Basic Skills teach the FUNdamentals of skating and provides the best foundation for figure skating, hockey and speed skating. There are six progressive levels. Basic 1 and 2 are the introductory levels to learn basic skating skills, including falling and recovery, forward and backward skating, and stops. Off-ice orientation prior to class consists of: checking proper fit and lacing of skates, appropriate attire, safety helmets(recommended, not provided). Basic 3-6 develops the ability to accomplish edge skills, crossovers, and turns. There will be an evaluation to determine the skater’s level for the next session.
Free Skate
Free Skate program requirements
Advanced classes designed for skaters who have passed Basic Skills level 6. Each free skate level is comprised of a variety of progressive skating skills, transitions, spins and jumps-all of which build on the previous skill providing a strong foundation of all elements. Instructors will focus on quality and mastery of skills.
Snowplow Sam
Snowplow Sam information and criteria Ages 3-6
These are introductory classes for 3-6 yr olds with no prior experience to learn the basics of skating. The classes are divided into 4 progressive levels. These classes are designed to help children learn the ABC’s of movement—Agility, Balance, Coordination and speed. Off-ice orientation prior to class consists of: checking proper fit and lacing of skates, appropriate attire, safety helmets(recommended, not provided), practice falling and recovery, marching in place, dips, and one-foot balances. These skills will then be learned on the ice. Each level has different criteria to advance. There will be an evaluation to determine the skater’s level for the next session.
Speed Skating
Speed Skating information
Do you have the need for speed? This class is offered as a part of the Learn To Skate USA program, but is geared for those skaters who want to race. Class is taught by experienced US speed skaters and certified coaches, and includes the use of speed skates during lessons.
For more program registration information, click here.
Be sure to check out NEW! Parent-Tot Figure Skating Lessons (Child and parent share the ice together. * Parent must have some skating experience.)
Group Lessons
This is the place to start to learn how to ice skate! Come join our group lessons with our experienced staff coaches that provide the critical instruction needed to achieve the proper technique and mastering of each element in your prospective level. In group lessons, the instructor’s goal is for skaters to be able to accomplish all the elements required. All skaters will receive an evaluation at the end of each session in order to know what level to sign up for the next session.
Figure Skating Academy Camps
Hoffman Estates Park District offers camps to address the needs of new skaters to developing athletes. Camps are held in summer.
Adult Figure Skating Lessons
Designed for the “later skaters”. If you have never skated before and would like to learn or you would like to brush up on your skating skills, this is the class for you. We follow the USFS Learn to Skate USA curriculum. The class is open to beginners through advanced skaters. This class will be divided into groups according to ability and enrollment. Why sit and watch your children when you can be learning too? This will be such a great way to enjoy skating as a family.
Private Lessons
Private lessons differ from group lessons as this is one-on-one time with a coach to focus on your skater’s specific goals. If your skater is having trouble with a certain skill or skills or if your skater is preparing for a competition, this may be the time to consider adding a private lesson in ADDITION to your group lessons.
Private lessons are also offered for the advanced or competitive skater with national and master-rated coaches.
Contact Melissa Motyka-Ciavarella, Figure Skating Manager at MMotyka@heparks.org or 847-781-3642 for a coach referral or information on private lessons.
Note: Private lessons are not affiliated with HEParks figure skating lessons. Once you have chosen a private coach, all interaction is between the parent and coach, not HEParks. All figure skating private lessons are paid directly to the coaches. Skaters must pay for ice time via the Unlimited Freestyle Pass or hourly freestyle rate.
Freestyle Hours
Please review as each day is different. All hours are subject to change.
Skaters can purchase an Unlimited Freestyle Pass for $175/month. The drop-in rate is $17/hour pay-at-the-door ($10 for 30 minutes). Unlimited Freestyle Pass requires a saved credit/debit card for automatic monthly renewals. Purchase online or in-person at Triphahn Center. All Unlimited Freestyle skaters will receive an ID Pass Card to swipe in upon arrival for each visit.
Skating Special Events
Hoffman Estates Park District offers many fun and exciting skating special events. Skating Events held throughout the year: Ice Show, Egg Slide, Great Pumpkin Skate, Skate with Santa and many more! Click here for more information on special events.
Figure Skating Specialty Classes:
Jump / Spin Class
Skaters focus on proper techniques and learn new exercises to accomplish their current and new jump/spin goals. Must be Basic 3 level or higher.
Power/Edge Class
Offered to both hockey and figure skaters. Designed to improve speed, agility, endurance/stamina through innovative power drills. Also learn to master your edges, turns and transitions. Skaters must be in Figure Skating Basic 3 or Hockey Development or higher.
Speed Skating
Do you have the need for speed? This class is offered as a part of the Learn To Skate USA program, but is geared for those skaters who want to race, taught by experienced US speed skaters and certified coaches, and includes the use of speed skates during lessons.
Music Interpretation/Choreography
Learn to skate to all different genres of music. The skaters will be taught different routines choreographed by the coach and they will practice creating their own choreography to different pieces of music. Try something new and have a super fun time.
For program registration information, click here.
US Figure Skating Sweating and Stretching
Flexibility is essential for success in skating, and regularly engaging in an off-ice stretching routine will improve your flexibility over time. Challenge yourself to focus on flexibility with this fun two-part workout! First, complete the dynamic warm-up “sweat” routine to ensure that your muscles are warm and your body is ready for st retching. Then, complete the st retching routine to increase your overall flexibility. When you’ re finished, check the box indicating the day of the week you completed a full #SweatAndStretch session. Complete the stretching course.
Contact for Figure Skating: Melissa Motyka-Ciavarella MMotyka@heparks.org 847-885-7500 ext 503
