Getting Trained by a Figure Skater

Getting Trained by a Figure Skater

Getting trained by a figure skater is extremely common, and it can be highly effective. The key is knowing what a figure skating coach does best, and then letting them do exactly that: pure skating instruction.

Don’t ask a figure skating coach to go outside their specialty.

Skating fundamentals are universal. Edge work, balance, agility, power generation, these are all core to high-level hockey, and figure skating coaches are masters of these elements. I've seen it firsthand with coaches like Crystal in my town, who do incredible work with hockey players focused purely on skating.

The danger comes when the lines blur.

It’s very common for figure skating coaches to feel pressure from a hockey player or their family to incorporate stickhandling, shooting, or other parts of the game. That’s where it becomes dangerous. These coaches are experts in their craft. They aren't experts in puck control, passing lanes, or how to maintain possession under forechecking pressure. They don't understand the nuances of a battle in the corner.

As with any coach, the more a figure skating coach starts talking about controlling pucks, shooting mechanics, or contact in a game situation, you’re at risk. They might misinterpret what is happening during a game, especially when contact or game-specific decision-making is involved. Their understanding of the game is fundamentally different. They don't have the perspective of a hockey player in a live game scenario. They can't advise you on how to protect the puck or win a board battle.

If you’re bringing your player, or you are a player working with a figure skating power-skating coach, don’t put them in a situation where you are asking them to go outside of their specialty. Stick to the skating. Ask for help on crossovers, backward skating, tight turns, or generating power. These are their strengths. They may try to watch a game and offer advice on other skills, but that could be a problem. You’re paying for a skating specialist; use them as one.

You also need to be aware of your player’s mindset. Some players just don’t want to work with figure coaches. They just want to drop the puck and go play. If your player isn't buying into the lesson, if they're not having fun and engaging, you won’t get the most out of it. Don’t force a player that’s not having fun with the lesson to do it just because you think it’s good for them. You might be creating resentment.

At some point, if they’re serious about this game, they will get on the ice with any instructor and learn something from it that they can take and implement in their games. Their passion and commitment will drive them to absorb knowledge from wherever it comes. Until then, make sure they’re receptive to the teaching.