Frequently Asked Questions
Learn How it Works!
What equipment will the skater need for Canskate/PreCanskate?
Skaters will need to have the following equipment:
1. CSA approved hockey helmet
2. Proper fitting figure skate or hockey skate. We do not recommend plastic or adjustable skate
3. All skates must be sharpened prior to the session start
4. Proper clothing-layering is best. We do not recommend snowsuits or pants. Consider jogging pants and a light waterproof pant.
5. Gloves or mittens
Proper equipment is essential to becoming skilled in most sports and skating is no exception! Skaters cannot lean skills unless their skates fit well and support their ankles. If your child cannot walk across the floor holding his/her ankles straight, then it is unlikely that he/she will be any better on the ice.
It is important to remember that learning to skate should be a fun and successful experience. It should not be lessened by poor quality equipment or physical discomfort. A well thought out purchase of good skates will encourage enthusiasm and excitement in anyone learning to skate.
What age groups do your programs cater to?
Our learn to skate programs are designed to accommodate a wide range of age groups, from young children to adults. We offer specialized coaching to ensure a tailored experience that suits the developmental needs of skaters at every stage. PreCanskate is for skaters ages 3-4 years of age. Canskate is for skater ages 4years and older.
How do I know which program is right for my skill level?
We provide a variety of programs to cater to different skill levels, from beginners to advanced skaters. Our experienced coaches assess your abilities and guide you to the program that aligns with your current skills and goals.
Does I need to have prior skating experience?
No prior experience is required! We welcome individuals of all skill levels, including beginners. Our entry-level programs are designed to introduce basic skating skills and gradually progress to more advance skills.
What do the ribbons and badges mean?
In CanSkate, skaters earn a ribbon when they have achieved all skills in a particular category – balance, control, or agility. Each category has a progression of levels from 1 to 6. When a child achieves all skills in all categories at a particular level, they receive that level badge (for example receiving level 1 balance, control and agility ribbons equals level 1 badge).
When are badges and ribbons given out?
Badges and ribbons will be attached to your child’s name tag on the CanSkate table at any time through the session or maybe given to your child on the ice frame, whenever they have achieved all skills in a particular category. Children may achieve these skills at a different pace from others. You may remove these ribbons or badges from their name tag before they go on the ice.
What type of skates should I purchase for Canskate/Precanskate?
Examples of Recommended Skates:
Jackson brand figure skate or Hockey skate
We do not recommend plastic adjustable skates
What is Power Skating?
Power skating is an action-packed, high energy instructional program geared to hockey and ringette skaters that focuses on balance, power, agility, speed, and endurance. Skills, techniques, and conditioning drills are taught in a progressive format that emphasizes how the skills apply to game situations.
Power skating provides an alternative to figure skating and is an excellent complement for those athletes playing on hockey or ringette teams.
Power Skating Eligibility Requirements?
Power skating is taught in a group environment; therefore, all participants should have basic skating ability and should be able to manage the following skills:
- Be able to get up on their own
- Be able to skate forward the length of the ice using alternate strides.
- Be able to skate backward the width of the ice using alternate strides
- Be able to stop without the use of the boards.
Skaters who cannot perform these skills on their own may be asked to join our CanSkate program, as this will be a better fit for your skater.
Are your coaches certified?
Yes, all our coaches must attend NCCP courses and be “in training, trained, or certified”. First aid certification and a police background check are also requirements. Additionally, all Professional Skate Canada Coaches must register yearly as Coaching Members within Skate Canada in order to be able to coach on our sessions. They bring expertise, passion, and a commitment to fostering the development of each skater.
What safety measures are in place during skating?
The safety of our participants is a top priority. We adhere to all safety guidelines and protocols. Our facilities are equipped with the necessary safety measures, and our coaches are trained to create a secure and supportive environment.
Now that my child is in the PreSTARskate, does my child require private coaching?
Private coaching is not mandatory at this stage, however, is beneficial for developing your skater. If you are considering private coaching, we would encourage you to speak with the coaches on you skater’s session to assist you in assessing the individual needs of your skater.
