Learn-to-Skate

Learn to Skate

Our skating instructors help participants develop skills in a safe and fun environment while following the guidelines of the US Figure Skating Basic Skills for recreational and competitive skaters.

Class Descriptions

All classes are progressive. Completion of previous levels is required for enrollment in each level. Students looking for skating course credits should see the University’s class listing for Kinesiology. The Learn to Skate program does not offer classes for credit.

Tots
  • For ages 3-5 years old
  • For participants with no or little skating experience
  • Classes include games and easy to understand terms to teach the basic skating skills and comfort on the ice
Basic 1-6
  • Learn fundamental moves: forward skating, backward skating, stops, edges, crossovers, turns, and Mohawks
  • Completion of these levels enable participants to advance to specialized skating
Adult 1-4
  • For beginner adult skaters
  • Promotes physical fitness and improves balance/coordination, while teaching basic skating techniques
  • Progress at your own pace while being challenged and motivated
  • Skate as an enjoyable part of a fit and healthy lifestyle!
Pre-Freeskate

Must have passed Basic 6 or Adult 4 to enroll

  • Designed to replace the previous curriculum of Basic 7 and 8 classes
  • Build on recently learned skills and create a strong foundation to prepare for private lessons and other specialized skating
Power and Conditioning

Must have passed Basic 6 or Adult 4 to enroll

  • Focuses on strengthening stroking technique, developing power and proper edge control
  • Emphasis on extension, quickness, power, speed, posture, and endurance
  • For skaters wanting to improve and enhance their abilities
Jumps and Spins

Must have passed Basic 6 or Adult 4 to enroll

  • Skaters can begin to learn proper jump and spin technique appropriate to their skill level

Registration

Winter registration will open for members on Wednesday, December 14 and for non-members on Monday, December 19.
Spring registration will open for members on Thursday, January 5 and for non-members on Monday, January 9.

  1. Login to the Active Illini web portal
  2. Click the button on the top left corner of the screen to expand the menu
  3. Click on “Ice Skating” and then “Ice Skating Programs”
  4. Select the Learn to Skate level that you are interested in registering for
  5. Click the “Register” button for the instance of the lesson(s) you want to join
  6. Follow the prompts until you are registered
  • Cost for Learn to Skate varies by membership
  • For lesson dates, descriptions, and costs, login to Active Illini
  • Payment for Learn to Skate is part of the registration process.

First Day of Class

  • Helmets are recommended for tots. Helmets are available to borrow and are located at the skate check window.
  • Dress warmly. Remember mittens, but wear only one pair of thin socks. Sweaters or some sort of long sleeved shirt is recommended for all levels. Large puffy coats are not recommended. Layers are better than coats. Jeans or pants made of stiff materials are also not recommended.
  • Arrive at the Ice Arena at least 20 minutes before your lesson begins. Please check in with the Instructors at the front table in the lobby for information or instructions.
  • If you have not pre-registered, arrive at least 45 minutes before your first lesson begins. There is no guarantee that spots will be open for those who did not register before the first day.
  • Trade your shoes for a pair of skates at the skate rental window. We do not have half sizes, so please try the size closest to your true shoe size.
  • Please wait to enter the ice until an instructor is present on the ice.
  • All skaters will meet off-ice every day in specified locations with their group lesson Instructors. Check with the front table to find out where to meet.

Class Make Up Policies

  • We only allow ONE makeup per Fall and Spring session.
  • Private lessons do not get a makeup option due to ice availability.
  • Participants can pick another Learn-to-skate day to participate in for the makeup and arrive when at the correct class time. 
  • When you arrive for your make up, please talk to the Learn-to-Skate coordinator in Room 108 to fill out a sheet of paper, this shows that you are using your ONE makeup.