Pilates for Figure Skaters

Stronger Skaters Start With Strong Foundations

Pilates training helps figure skaters develop the strength, balance, and body awareness needed for jumps, spins, and confident performance on the ice.

 

Karina Johnson
Figure Skating Coach & Pilates Instructor
Miami, Florida | Miami Ice Arena

​

Pilates is one of the most effective forms of off-ice training for figure skaters. It develops the core strength, balance, and body awareness that skaters need for strong jumps, centered spins, and powerful skating edges.

Karina Johnson incorporates Pilates principles into her coaching to help skaters improve posture, alignment, and overall athletic performance. By developing strength and control away from the ice, skaters are able to move more efficiently and confidently during training and competition.

 

Why Pilates Is Beneficial for Figure Skaters

Figure skating requires a combination of strength, flexibility, balance, and precise body control. Pilates training helps skaters develop these essential qualities in a safe and structured way.

 

Pilates training helps skaters develop:

• strong core stability for jumps and spins
• better balance and edge control
• improved posture and body alignment
• increased flexibility and mobility
• greater body awareness and coordination
• injury prevention through proper movement patterns

 

These skills translate directly to improved performance on the ice.

​

Pilates and Skating Technique

Pilates focuses on controlled movement and proper body alignment. These principles are essential for figure skating, where small adjustments in posture or balance can greatly affect skating technique.

Through Pilates-based training, skaters learn how to:

• maintain strong posture while skating
• stabilize the core during jumps and landings
• control rotation in spins
• improve extension and movement quality
• move with efficiency and precision

 

Developing these habits off the ice helps skaters perform their skills more consistently during practice and competition.

 

Off-Ice Training for Figure Skaters

Off-ice training is an important part of modern figure skating development. Many elite skaters use Pilates and other conditioning exercises to strengthen the muscles used in skating and to reduce the risk of injury.

Karina incorporates Pilates concepts into off-ice training to help skaters build strength, flexibility, and control that directly support their progress on the ice.

 

This approach helps skaters develop:

• stronger jump technique
• better spin centering
• improved skating posture
• greater overall athletic performance

Integrating Pilates Into Skating Training

​

Pilates training can be used alongside skating lessons to help skaters progress more efficiently. By developing strength, stability, and body awareness off the ice, skaters are better prepared to learn and refine their skills during on-ice training.

​

Karina works with skaters of all levels, from beginners learning basic skating skills to competitive athletes preparing for tests and competitions.

 

Train With Karina Johnson

Private figure skating lessons and off-ice training are available at Miami Ice Arena in Miami, Florida.

Karina’s coaching combines strong skating fundamentals with movement training that helps skaters develop confidence, control, and performance quality on the ice.

Interested in learning more about skating lessons or off-ice training?

​

Contact Karina to inquire about lesson availability and scheduling.

​

​

Pilates training is designed to support figure skating technique and injury prevention.

​

"Skating is a balance of power and grace — Pilates teaches your body how to achieve both."
— Karina Johnson

​

​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Benefits of Pilates for Figure Skaters

• Core Strength & Stability

      A strong core is the center of all movement. Pilates develops deep abdominal and back muscles that support balance, posture, and jump control.

• Better Alignment & Body Awareness

      Skaters learn to move with precision and control. Improved alignment translates directly into cleaner edges, steadier spins, and more consistent landings.

• Flexibility & Range of Motion

      Controlled stretching improves line quality and allows greater freedom of movement—without compromising joint stability.

      Injury Prevention & Recovery

      Pilates helps correct muscle imbalances, protect joints, and support the body through recovery from overuse or strain.

• Mind-Body Connection

      Through focused breathing and concentration, skaters develop the mental control and focus that enhance performance quality and artistry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Custom Training for Every Skater

Karina’s Pilates programs are personalized for all skating levels, from Intermediate to Elite competitors.
Sessions may include:

• Mat and Reformer-based training

• Jump alignment and landing control

• Spin balance and rotation drills

• Flexibility, stretching, and recovery work​

 

About Karina Johnson

As both a USFS professional skating coach and certified Pilates instructor, Karina understands the physical and technical demands of the sport. Her approach bridges the gap between off-ice conditioning and on-ice performance, helping skaters achieve strength, grace, and confidence.

​

As a certified Pilates Instructor at Club Pilates, I bring an athletic, performance-driven approach to movement shaped by my elite competitive background. With comprehensive training on the Reformer, Mat, Chair, and other Pilates equipment, I work closely with figure skaters, athletes, and dancers to build strength, stability, mobility, and body awareness while supporting injury prevention and long-term performance. My classes are dynamic, encouraging, and thoughtfully designed to help clients move better, feel stronger, and train with confidence.

​

Learn more about Karina’s figure skating coaching background.

 

Train Like a Champion

Pilates isn’t just exercise—it’s a foundation for success on the ice.
Take your skating to the next level with individualized instruction from Karina Johnson.

​

*Book a private lesson at Club Pilates

*Some age restrictions 

Club Pilates, 11774 SW 104th St, Miami, FL 33186

Contact Club Pilates - Kendall (786) 405-7079 to arrange a private lesson with Karina.

​

Pilates training helps skaters build the strength, balance, and control needed for confident skating. When combined with on-ice instruction, it provides a strong foundation for long-term development in the sport.

 

Private figure skating lessons and off-ice training are available at Miami Ice Arena.

​​​

Schedule a Pilates or skating evaluation lesson.