If you’re the parent of a high-level figure skater, you already know how many decisions go into each season. Coaching, training schedules, competitions, costumes… and then there’s music . Music selection often raises a lot of questions for parents: Why this piece? Why not something more exciting? Why doesn’t my skater get to choose their favorite song? All fair questions. Let me walk you through how coaches and choreographers think about music—and why it matters so much at th

As a coach, my goal for every Compete USA competition is simple: help each skater feel prepared, confident, and proud of their effort . These events are designed to be positive learning experiences, especially for young skaters and families who may be attending their first competition. Below is how I guide my students—and how I partner with parents—to make competition day a success both on and off the ice. My Coaching Philosophy for Compete USA Compete USA competitions are no

Why Buying the Right Figure Skating Boots and Blades Matters (Especially for Beginners) If you’re new to figure skating—or a parent just starting this journey with your child—it’s easy to assume that skates are just skates. Lace them up, step on the ice, and off you go… right? Not quite. In figure skating, boots and blades are not one-size-fits-all , and choosing the wrong equipment can slow progress, cause discomfort, or even lead to injury. One of the most important early d

If your child loves figure skating, you may have heard the term vestibular training  and wondered what it means. It sounds technical, but it’s really about helping skaters build balance, coordination, and confidence  — all skills that matter when they’re learning jumps, spins, and quick changes of direction on the ice. What Is Vestibular Training? At its core, vestibular training helps develop the body’s vestibular system  — the balance and spatial awareness mechanism located

Figure skating demands strength, balance, and control—often on one leg at a time. Jumps, spins, edges, and even simple stroking all rely on a skater’s ability to stabilize the hips and core while moving dynamically. One Pilates exercise that directly supports these demands is the Single-Leg Bridge . This exercise is a favorite in Pilates training for figure skaters because it strengthens key skating muscles while improving alignment and balance. What Is the Single-Leg Bridge?

Compete USA Competitions When children first step onto the ice, many parents wonder what it really takes to become a figure skating competitor—and whether their child is “ready.” The good news is that competitive figure skating isn’t about being the biggest jumper or the fastest learner right away. For beginners, success is built through confidence, fundamentals, and a positive first experience. Strong Basics Come First For beginner skaters, learning proper fundamentals is fa

Figure skating is one of the most demanding sports in the world. Elite skaters aren’t just graceful on the ice — they are powerful, precise, and highly coordinated athletes. While time on the ice is essential, the secret to consistent jumps, spins, and seamless choreography often lies off the ice . That’s where Pilates  comes in. Core Strength and Stability: The Foundation of Every Jump and Spin Pilates is built around core engagement, posture, and alignment , which are criti

As the excitement builds toward the upcoming Olympic Games, many parents are finding themselves inspired by the athleticism, artistry, and confidence displayed by elite figure skaters on the world stage. What many don’t realize is that figure skating is one of the most natural transitions for children who already love gymnastics or dance  — especially gifted, athletic kids who thrive on movement and challenge. A Familiar Foundation, A New Playground If your child is drawn to

There was time for a bungee jump in Auckland!

Magical view from Picton, New Zealand!