FAQs for Virtual Lessons.

What do I need for a virtual lesson?
   1. A phone capable of FaceTime or Zoom
   2. A time when both you and your virtual coach are available.
   a. If you are doing an on-ice virtual lesson, you will need to be on the ice during a session
where you are allowed to do lessons. For examples, your ice arena may not allow
skaters to jump or spin during public skating times. So that would not be a good time to
schedule a virtual lesson.

   3. For on-ice virtual lessons, you need a good internet connection in the ice arena. It can be wifi at
the rink or your own network.

Do I need any special equipment?
   You may find that a phone stand is helpful to balance your phone at the rink. Many skaters find
they can balance their phone on the ridge of the boards against the glass, but some rinks may not be set
up in a way that makes balancing the phone easy.
   “Chat stand” is a good search to use in Amazon as phones clip in to that style. Phone stands that
just use gravity and tilt the phone are not suited for virtual lessons because all your coach will see is the
ceiling. A clip in phone stand is best as it can hold the phone at an angle where the virtual coach can see
a skater head to toe. Try out any new equipment prior to your first lesson.

 

What about headphones?
Many rinks do not allow skaters to wear headphones while on the ice. Some allow skaters to
wear a headphone in ONE ear only. Skaters still need to abide by all the rules set by their home rink.

 

Does the skater need a parent on the ice?
No. If we are working on programs, a parent might need to hold the phone and track the skater,
but that can be done off ice from the players bench or wherever spectators can watch the skaters.
Parents can absolutely sit in on the lessons. Place the phone near the player’s benches and have
a seat in ear shot of the phone. Bring a blanket, it’s chillier when you’re sitting so close to the ice.

Sounds great. What exactly do I need to do to make this happen?
1. Try out the wifi or signal inside your rink. Could you easily watch a video?
2. Know what time the sessions are at your home rink that would work for you to take a virtual
lesson.
3. Contact your virtual coach to see if they are available during any of those times.
4. Select a time that works for both you and your virtual coach.
5. Before your lesson, try out all your equipment. Try balancing your phone on the boards. Make
a couple practice video calls to a friend if you’ve never done it before.

 

Can I take more than 1 virtual lesson?
Yes. Skaters generally have a standing weekly appointment for lessons.

On lesson day:
1. Charge your phone
2. Arrive at the rink in time to do any extra setup

3. Call your coach at the appointed time.
4. Have a great lesson!

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Some things are the same as for in-person lessons :)

 

What should I wear?
Dress for cold weather sports. Skaters need to be able to comfortably move and still be warm.
Gloves are a must. If the rink is super cold, layer up. A long sleeve shirt, fleece zip jacket, and a winter
coat might be necessary. Skaters can always take off a layer if they get warm. Athletic pants are better
than jeans.

Do I have to wear a skating dress?
No. Dress for comfort and warmth. If you have a competition coming up, then you might want
to try out any new skating costumes. For regular practice though, athletic pants or leggings are great.

When is a good time to start private lessons?
Whenever you want to get a little more serious about learning skills that will serve you on the ice, and throughout life in general. 
Everyone can benefit from one-on-one time with a skating instructor who can check you are getting the best foundation possible.
It's important to understand that in skating, every move you learn is the foundation for another move later on. If early moves are not perfected, this can be a huge roadblock in your skating life to come. For example, don't try to get an axel if your backspin is not already perfect :)

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