by Chris Ferguson

Created on: September 01, 2008

How Old Is Too Old To Learn Figure Skating?

There's really no age limit. This question gave me pause to reflect: when I started skating 28 years ago at 33, some comments were as follows: (Sarcastic) "Skating's for kids!" (Sarcastic) "Going to the Olympics?" (Astonishment) "You SKATE?!" with jaws dropped and eyes widened. Adult skaters were looked upon as "trying to capture their youth." Back then there were no such things as Adult Group lessons, Adult Nationals (through the International Skating Institute and/or United State Figure Skating organizations), or Adult Skating Camps. Some coaches were even reluctant to teach adults as they felt adult skaters "wouldn't amount to anything," unlike the younger competitive skaters.

Then came Adult Nationals in 1994 in Delaware, Md. The governing body United Skates Figure Skating finally realized there was an adult skating community and ever since then the number of adult commpetitive and recreational skaters have doubled and tripled nationally. We've finally been given the recognition, respect and categories we deserve. Now there are Adult-level Group lessons so adults can feel comfortable taking lessons with other adults, Adult Nationals complete with age categories, an International Adult competition and Adult Skating Camps, where competitive as well as recreational adults can get tips, help and encouragement on their skating techniques from elite coaches. More coaches have been willing to teach adult skaters and whole families are taking lessons and skating together without feeling intimidated or self-conscious. It's a joy to behold.

So to answer the question: How Old Is Too Old To Learn Figure Skating: Dismiss any negative comments that may be directed towards you. Don't listen to anyone tell you "You can't do it, or "you're too old." You'r mission is to prove them wrong. If you take and complete one Group semester and pass the required tests to advance to the next level, take that badge or ribbon your instructor will give you, dangle it in front of your friends and say: "Er...what was that about being too old to skate....?!" Be proud you're an adult skaters and others will be encouraged to "take to the ice." I've taught Tots to Adults and I'm truly sympathetic to the adult skater because through them I remember my fears, and anxieties-but never let those negative comments get in the way of learning how to skate. If I did, I would have never met the many kind and supportive people along the way who influenced me and kept me going.

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