Stepping onto the ice as an adult figure skater can be both exciting and intimidating. Whether you’re returning to a childhood passion or discovering the sport for the first time, building confidence on the ice is crucial for both your enjoyment and progress. Here are some helpful tips for unleashing that inner lion on the ice!

1. Set Realistic Goals
   Begin by setting achievable goals that match your current skill level. This could be as simple as mastering a basic spin, improving your edges, or learning a new jump. Celebrate small victories along the way to keep yourself motivated. Remember, progress is progress, no matter how small.
2. Invest in Proper Equipment & Care
   Having the right gear can make a significant difference in your performance and confidence. Properly fitted skates help you feel more secure and in control on the ice. Be sure to stay on top of maintenance such as blade sharpening and refreshing those laces. More on that here.
3. Find a Professional You Trust
   Working with a coach you trust can make a world of difference. A coach who constantly helps you develop proper technique is essential for building confidence and preventing injuries. They will often break down elements into smaller parts to focus on the technical aspects and achieve small steps of progress. Don’t be afraid to ask for their advice on off-ice training or dance classes to further expand your skills.
4. Be Consistent
   Consistency is key to building confidence. Schedule regular practice sessions and stick to them. The more time you spend on the ice, the more comfortable and confident you will become. Try to balance practice time between working on new skills and reinforcing those you have already learned. It’s often very tempting to work on the elements we’re good at, but push yourself out of that comfort zone.
5. Visualize Success
   Mental preparation is as important as physical practice. Spend time visualizing yourself performing skills successfully. Positive visualization can help reduce anxiety and boost your confidence. Imagine the feeling of gliding smoothly, landing a jump, or mentally walking through your full program.
6. Embrace the Falls
   Falling is a natural part of learning to skate. Instead of fearing falls, learn to embrace them as opportunities to learn and improve. Practice safe falling techniques to minimize the risk of injury and view each fall as a stepping stone toward progress.
7. Build a Supportive Community
   Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and fellow skaters. Join a local skating club or online community where you can share experiences, seek advice, and celebrate achievements. Having a strong support system can boost your confidence and make your skating journey more enjoyable. The adult skating community is especially good at this; look for clubs or seminars with programs designed for adults.
8. Focus on Technique
   Confidence comes from knowing that you have a solid foundation. Focus on developing proper technique rather than rushing to learn advanced skills. Good technique will not only improve your performance but also help you feel more in control on the ice and ultimately allow you to continue moving forward without having to relearn a skill that was rushed through.
9. Stay Positive and Patient
   Confidence doesn’t build overnight. Stay positive and patient with yourself as you progress. Avoid comparing yourself to others and focus on your own journey. Remember that every skater progresses at their own pace, and setbacks are a normal part of the learning process. Be thoughtful about social media; remember, no one is posting their failures.
10. Take Care of Your Body
    Physical fitness off the ice plays a significant role in your performance and confidence on the ice. Incorporate strength training, flexibility exercises, and cardiovascular workouts into your routine to build overall fitness and reduce the risk of injuries. Don’t forget to build in recovery time. As challenging as it is to carve out time to skate, allowing an extra ten minutes at the beginning of a session for a proper warm-up could make a big difference in how that session goes.

Remember, confidence comes from within, and with dedication and perseverance, you can achieve great things in your figure skating journey.  What are some thing you do to help with confidence on the ice?