Learn To Skate Basic Skills 

Fully supported by U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey, and US Speedskating, with support from Special Olympics, the Professional Skaters Association, and the U.S. Ice Rink Association, Learn to Skate USA offers every student a heartfelt welcome, lifelong benefits, and fond memories. Passion: It's why Learn to Skate USA is recognized as the world's best ice skating program.

The Ames Learn to Skate Basic Skills Program promotes ice skating and hockey in the community by providing safe, fun & high quality group instruction in accordance with Learn to Skate USA guidelines.

​Classes are offered year-round at the Ames/ISU Ice Arena, 1507 Gateway Hills Park Drive. 

Coach Becca with Skate Squad helpers Izzy and Nora doing off-ice training before hitting the ice.

Programs Offered

Adults skate too! Skater Jesse passed Adult 1 and 2 in his first session!

Class Schedule and Registration

​Snowplow Sam 1-4

•  Designed for children ages 3-6 with no prior skating experience to build confidence while learning the basic skills of skating.​

Basic Classes 1-6

•  These levels introduce the fundamental moves of ice skating: forward and backward skating, stops, edges, crossovers, three turns, Mohawks, and spins.  
• Basic 1 is for beginners and those with little experience and above the age of 6.

​Freestyle Classes: Pre-Free Skate and Freeskate 1-6 

• Introduction to more advanced figure skating skills.
• Skaters must have completed Pre-Free Skate to advance.

​Adult Classes 1-6

•  Teen through senior citizens can enjoy learning beginner through advanced skills.​​

Hockey 1-4

•  Fundamentals of hockey to help maneuver faster and be more agile on the ice.
• All elements will be taught without sticks.

Learn to Skate FAQs

WHAT IS LEARN To skate?

The Ames Figure Skating Club is so excited to welcome you to our Learn to Skate program! Whether you are 5 or 50, a skating novice or a more advanced skater, our friendly and knowledgeable Learn to Skate coaches are here to meet you where you're at on your skating journey! Learn to Skate is a national program designed to teach basic skating skills in a safe, supportive group setting. It’s the foundation for figure skating, hockey, and recreational skating.

What's the time committment for learn to skate?

Learn to Skate runs five sessions throughout the year—four during the school year and one in the summer. Each session typically lasts about five weeks.

During school-year sessions (Sessions 1–4), classes are offered on Wednesday nights, Friday evenings, or Saturday mornings. You’ll pick one day and time that works best for your schedule, and attend that class each week for the duration of the session.

Each class is 30 minutes long and includes supervised group instruction from our trained Learn to Skate coaches. Summer Session 5 may have a different schedule, so be sure to check for updates when registering.

what should skaters wear to class?

​Your comfort and safety are important to us! We recommend wearing leggings or sweatpants along with a t-shirt. It's also a good idea to bring a removable jacket or hoodie and a hat or earmuffs for layering, so you can adjust as you warm up. Don’t forget to bring gloves for both warmth and protection. Helmets are welcome if you feel they’re necessary. Please avoid wearing snow pants, bib overalls, or bulky winter coats, as these can restrict your movement.

Do skaters need their own skates?

​No, you don’t need to bring your own skates for Snowplow Sam LTS through Basic/Adult 6! Your Learn to Skate registration fee includes skate rentals from the Ames/ISU Ice Arena. Arrive 15-20 minutes before your class begins, head to the skate rental desk near the concession stand, and pick up a pair of skates. After each lesson, be sure to return the skates before you leave. 

Once you reach more specialized Learn to Skate levels, you will be asked to provide your own skates. Pre-Freeskate--Freeskate 6 require a figure skate while Hockey 1-4 require hockey skates. Correct equipment helps students be more successful as they increasingly specialize.

Can skaters try a class before signing up?

AFSC does not currently offer trial classes. However, the LTS sessions are short, and our coaches are great at helping new skaters feel comfortable quickly.

How do we know what level to register for?

​If you or your skater are brand new, start with Snowplow Sam (ages 3–5), Basic 1 (ages 6+), or Adult 1. Coaches will assess each skater and may recommend moving up if appropriate.

​If you or your skater have some experience, please contact our Learn to Skate coordinators. They can help you determine what to class to register for.

What if a Skater is nervous or doesn’t want to participate?

It’s normal for kids (and adults!) to feel uncertain at first. Our coaches are kind, encouraging, and trained to work with skaters wherever they are at. Give it time—they usually warm up quickly!

How long does it take to pass a level?

Every skater progresses at their own pace—and that’s completely normal! Some skaters may pass a level in one session, while others may take the same level more than once.
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Our coaches want skaters to feel confident, safe, and successful before moving on. Repeating a level is not a setback. It’s part of the process. Skaters often need time to build strength, balance, and coordination, especially as the skills become more complex. Progress isn’t always linear, and our focus is on developing strong fundamentals that will support long-term growth and enjoyment on the ice.

What happens after learn to skate?

​After completing Basic 6, skaters can move into Pre-Free Skate and then the Free Skate levels. Many skaters also begin private coaching, join AFSC as members, and prepare for competitions or testing.

My whole family has skated in this program! I'm so grateful to have something like this right here in Ames!
- Katrina, mother of skater Brooke