The Sets of Skills
Basic Beginner includes:
1 Concepts, Equipment, Safety, Balance, Posture,Primary Skills (learn all the primary
positions and movements which, when combined, permit you to do
virtually all functional skating techniques, including far more advanced ones)
2 Basic Skate - your first chance to let the wheels do the work
3 A-Frame Turns, Stops, Speed Control
4. Scissoring - adds super stability
5 Heel-brake Stopping - leave some rubber on the pavement
The Beginner Intro class runs about an hour and a half and covers 1 and 2 above, and up to 3 and 4 as well.
Advanced Beginner includes:
6 Swizzles, sculling, power turns. Add some oomph
7 Stride II - skate faster and stronger
8 Toe Rolls
9 Spin Stop - stop without using the brake - very practical and looks real cool
10 Parallel Turn - get this and you're no longer a beginner. Go anywhere now.
****Realistically it could take 3-7 classes to master all these skills. So if you are joining a group, think about making yourself available over several weeks. Though you are not obliged. And once mastered you can return to acquire Intermediate Level skills.
How It Works
If the students catch on quickly and have the endurance, we move right on to the next skill set in the same class. It can take from three to eight classes to cover all the material, depending on class size and student aptitudes. For those who want to continue, there is an intermediate and advanced/ intermediate programme. Classes generally last an hour. Arrive early and allow extra time for gearing up. The first class is usually scheduled for around 1 1/2 hours.
Most lessons are held on surfaces near downtown. Each year some lessons are held on the trails and on a paved track. I also organize free group skates for my students, up the Humber or the Don and for sure on the Hamilton Beach Trail.
After completing the full beginner programme, it is recommended that the students attend a Street/Trail Skills Clinic to learn how to apply all their skills to real-life situations.
Locations vary depending on size of class and what is being taught.
In addition to functioning skates, students require knee and elbow pads, wrist guards, as well as a helmet. No exceptions. Rentals are available in many sizes. Skates $5, All pads $5, Helmet $5. Students are expected to arrive sufficiently early to be all geared up and ready to skate at the appointed hour. No shows and last minute cancellations are subject to payment