Becoming a Professional Figure Skater at 18: Is It Possible?

Many aspiring figure skaters dream of turning their passion into a professional career. However, what if you are 16 years old and hoping to achieve this dream but cannot start skating until you are 18? This article will explore the challenges and steps you can take to become a professional figure skater, even starting a few years later than traditional age groups.

Why It’s Possible to Start Later

Yes, you can still pursue a career in figure skating even if you start at 18. While many professional skaters begin training at a much younger age, it is more challenging to build the necessary skills and experience at this later stage. However, dedication and effort can go a long way. Many skaters have successfully made the transition into the sport later in life with the right approach.

Preparing for Your Future in Figure Skating

To lay a solid foundation for your skating journey, follow these steps:

Stay Fit

Build your overall fitness through strength training, flexibility exercises, and cardiovascular workouts. This will help you when you begin skating and provide a strong base for further development in the sport.

Research and Learn

Study figure skating techniques, routines, and the history of the sport. Understanding the fundamentals can give you a head start and provide a clearer vision of what you need to achieve.

Find a Coach

Once you start skating, having a qualified coach will be crucial for your development. Look for a coach who has experience working with adult beginners to help you progress effectively.

Join a Local Club

Engage with local skating clubs or communities. This can provide you with additional resources, support, and opportunities to compete, helping you to gain experience and network within the skating community.

Set Goals

Establish short-term and long-term goals for your skating journey. This will help you stay motivated and focused as you work towards your professional aspirations.

Stay Committed

Figure skating requires dedication and hard work. Be prepared for challenges and stay committed to your training. This mindset is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving your dreams.

Realistic Expectations and Success Stories

One of my friends started skating three years ago. Despite the late start, he has made significant progress, now working on double axels and performing at the juvenile level. He has even been paid to perform in shows and coached at summer programs. This shows that with sufficient time and effort, it is possible to achieve a high level of skill.

While you might not compete at world-class levels, the pursuit of a professional career is still achievable. You could potentially compete in Adult Regionals or participate in regular skating tracks. However, competing in the Olympics is less likely, as the competition is extremely fierce and requires an extensive amount of training and early start.

Beyond Basics: Edge and Footwork Focus

For someone starting at 18, focusing on edge and footwork is crucial. Everything more than double jumps or basic triples will be out of the question in your age group. Additionally, most ice shows, such as Disney on Ice, place a greater emphasis on footwork than jumps.

Based on these considerations, if you really want to pursue figure skating as a career, make sure to prioritize edge and footwork early on. This will set you up for success in ice shows and other professional opportunities.

Happy skating!