How to Prepare for a Figure Skating Test

You are ready to take your figure skating test, but the thought of being on the ice all by yourself in front of judges is scary. Skating tests can be nerve-wracking, but being well prepared helps. Here are some tips that may calm your nerves and help you shine.

Things You'll Need

  • figure skates
  • • figure skating instruction
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Instructions

    • 1

      Don't test until you are over-prepared.
      You may feel as though you've been working on the test forever. It's a good idea to make sure your skills are well above what is needed to pass. You probably won't perform at your peak on the test, so it's best to have a little margin of error.

    • 2

      It's okay to be nervous.
      Feeling nervous is a sign that you are committed to testing. Many people experience scary skating dreams, an inability to perform skills that used to be easy, sweaty palms or shaky knees. Ignoring the feelings seems to make them worse, so go ahead and notice them. In fact, some people intensify the nerves by having friends watch as if they were judges. Wear your testing outfit, give yourself a short warm-up and go through the test as if you were at the test session, without stopping.

    • 3

      Double-check the test requirements.
      Make sure you know the order of the moves, if you are taking a moves in the field test. You can always ask the judges what comes next, but you'll feel more confident if the order is second nature to you.

    • 4

      Prepare for the day of testing.
      • If possible, skate at the rink where you'll be testing before the day of the test. Even if you can't skate there, try to visit to check on the route and confirm how long it takes to get there. If possible, go inside the rink to familiarize yourself with it: Is it warm or cold? Is there a place to change? Where are the bathrooms? The more you know, the better prepared, and more relaxed, you'll be.
      • Make a list of everything you need to bring with you.
      • Plan what you will do once you are at the rink---warming up, getting into your test clothes, and so on.

    • 5

      The day of the test.
      • Get to the test session early---an hour ahead is usually enough time.
      • Make sure you or your coach knows what time your test is scheduled for. Tests move along quickly, so you want to be ready early, just in case.
      • Put your skates on in plenty of time for your warm-up.
      • Don't wander off while waiting to be called to the ice.
      • Some people like to be alone, focusing on what they are about to do. Others prefer to be sociable. Do what works for you.

    • 6

      Take the test.
      • When you step on the ice for the test, let the judges see how much you love to skate. Smile, bend your knees and breathe.
      • You have prepared long and hard for this test. Show them what you can do, and have fun.