Skating Schools

The member clubs of the Finnish Figure skating Association are organizing skating schools for boys and girls aged three and older.

The professionally trained instructors teach the basics using games and playful competitions to ensure the children learn how to stand, fall and move around on skates. After skating school the Clubs offer variety of groups and teams to continue the hobby.

The skating schools usually begin almost simultaneously with the start of school in August-September, and the spring season starts in January. The clubs insure all skaters under the age of 15 who take part in the skating schools.

Equipment for Figure Skater

Skates

A skate is the most important tool for skater. Therefore, its choice should be made carefully and with time. When choosing skates, take into account skater skill and strength level, amount of training, age, height, weight, physique and knee use. We recommend purchasing skates from a store specialized for Figure Skating equipment.

A good skating shoe supports the position of the foot and the right kind of figure skating blade is essential for learning new skills. Skates are not worth saving, the price is usually a guarantee of quality. Good skates are durable and should meet the requirements for both size and strength. A novice skater should buy good skates either used or new.

The shoe should fit a thin sock. If you skate a lot on outdoor ice, you can put a thermo cover on top of the skate, for example, which is a better option than a wool sock to put inside the skate.

Skate blades

Skate blade is made of hardened or nowadays also stainless steel,  it has tip spikes and so-called career sharpening . Tip spikes are needed in certain jumps and pirouettes, and the groove blade makes it easier to turn the skater’s changed weight with the blade.

Lacing of skates

The skate shoe is properly laced when the lacing is relatively loose at the toes, tight at the ankle (a knot or double flap at the lowest hooks prevents loosening) and the lacing at the top of the arm is loose so that a finger fits between the shoe and the foot.

Take care of your skates

With good care, you can extend the life of your skates. So remember to ventilate them out of the bag and skate bags after each use. Do not leave them in damp areas, such as ice rink equipment cabinets. Also, be sure to take care of the condition of your blades. Check from time to time that the screws are tight and that your blade is sharp enough. Wipe the blades thoroughly after each use and protect them from damp moisture with soft cloth covers. Always use blade guards when moving outside the ice. Sharpen your figure skate only with a person who has received training. to the task.