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What should I look for in a figure skating coach?
TL;DR
Choose a coach who understands your skater's individual needs and learning style, communicates clearly about technique, and engages with parents—not just someone with impressive credentials.
Choosing the Right Figure Skating Coach
The best coach for your child isn't always the most decorated or the busiest. Look for someone who genuinely sees your skater—not just their talent, but their personality, learning style, and pace of progress.
A good coach explains why they're asking for a specific change. When they say "lower your free hip," they should help you understand how that affects rotation, landing stability, or carriage. You want someone who communicates with parents too, not just the skater. Monthly check-ins about goals and progress matter.
Experience with your child's current level is important. A coach strong at Pre-Preliminary might not be the best fit if your skater is ready for Intermediate. Conversely, an elite-level coach may lack patience for foundational skills. Ask how many students they've guided through the testing you're targeting.
Watch a lesson or two if possible. Does the coach balance encouragement with honest feedback? Do they stay present—giving feedback between attempts, not just watching from the boards? Does your child seem engaged, even when challenged?
Finally, trust your gut. Your skater spends significant time with this person. The relationship matters as much as the technique.
Want to see this in your child's skating? SkateMarks analyzes every jump with per-second AI coaching notes.