How to Become a Professional Ice Skater

Winter Olympics exposure is a major avenue for launching a successful figure skating career. Professional earnings potential will, of course, depend to a great degree upon how recognizable and talented you are, whether you are part of an ice skating tour company and whether you are able to endorse products. The major ice skating tour companies in the United States are Disney on Ice and Holiday on Ice. The Professional Skaters Association (PSA) is the main governing body for professional figure skating while the International Skaters Union (ISU) regulates international events.

Things You'll Need

  • PSA membership and fees
  • Pair of ice skates
  • Appropriate performance attire
  • Trainer/Coach (recommended)
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Instructions

  1. Become a professional ice skater

    • 1

      Consider taking private figure skating classes. You should also consider joining the PSA. The ISI website has information about college scholarships for ice skaters with aid up to $4,000.

    • 2

      Practice skating as much as possible (every day, if possible). Develop a smooth style and crowd pleasing demeanor. Keep in mind that you are in the entertainment business. Make your routines entertaining.

    • 3

      Train for the Olympic Games, if possible, with the assistance of an experienced and reputable ice skating coach. Before choosing a skating coach, check out the coach’s references, ask for a fee quote, his membership status in the PSA (and PSA ratings) and the coach’s highest PSA test scores. The ISI website has a search option to find ice skating coaches.

    • 4

      Consider performing with a partner, which would provide a chance to perform as a team in national events and in the Winter Olympic Games.

    • 5

      Perform on a regular basis. In order to qualify to compete in Olympic trials and, ultimately, the Winter Olympic Games, you will need to make a firm commitment to the sport. There is intense competition in the figure skating world.

    • 6

      Submit your resume, contact information and a press kit (including news clippings, photos, list of awards and DVDs of your best performances), to ice skating companies such as Disney on Ice or Holiday on Ice. Call first to find out the name of the specific person who reviews resumes and press kit materials.

    • 7

      Start your post-Olympic ice skating career. By this time, you should be well on your way to earning a living from figure skating.

    • 8

      Endorse products if you want to increase your income. In order to get endorsement contracts, you should contact a pro skater agent.