This 50-minute class is designed for skaters ages 12 and older from first steps to Stage 5 of CanSkate.

CSA Approved Hockey Helmets are required for all participants in this program.

CanSkate is Skate Canada’s official learn-to-skate program and has been designed to address the development of skating skills and elements in preparation for all ice sports. It is highly regarded by other ice sport organizations as the favoured curriculum to develop the skills needed to participate in their sports. It is also an excellent program to teach everyone to skate for the joy of skating at any age or ability. Skaters will be introduced to elements in three Fundamental areas. These Fundamental areas are the ABCs of skating: Agility, Balance and Control. The elements to be taught include forward skating, backward skating, stopping, turning, and jumping. The skaters will also be introduced to elements to assist in developing speed, flexibility, and power.

The philosophy of learn-to-skate is to provide opportunities for everyone to learn how to skate in fun, safe, and engaging environments and to evoke interest for life-long participation. The CanSkater’s learning environment is enhanced through fun, music, teaching aids and props, along with praise and group/individual feedback from coaches. Program Assistants (PAs) also provide additional motivation, enthusiasm, fun and support to skaters.

Speed, flexibility, and solid basics are the most important aspects to be trained for the skater in this stage. This is accomplished by ensuring increased movement on the ice, using strategies such as circuits, Fast Track, effective warm-ups and cool downs. Providing good element progression circuits where the elements recur on several stages to develop the element to a higher level of proficiency at each level is essential.

Our Teen/Adult CanSkate program gives skaters ages 12 and older the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of skating at a pace and in an environment that supports the social connections and sense of community needed to thrive as a teen/adult skater. 

While the ice surface is shared with our Advanced CanSkate program, the Teen/Adult CanSkate with travel through circuits on the ice learning at their own pace and with only teen/adult skaters on their circuit. 

• Once a skater has completed Stage 3 they are eligible to move to our Intro to STARSkate program. 

• Once a skater has completed Stage 4 they are eligible to move to our PowerSkate program. 

• Once a skater has completed Stage 5  AND is 18 years of age or older they are eligible to move to our Adult STARSkate program.

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