Is It Too Late to Start Figure Skating at 16 with Some Skills?
It is definitely not too late to start figure skating at 16, especially if you already have some skating skills! Many figure skaters begin later in life and can still achieve significant progress. Here are a few points to consider:
Learning Curve
Since you already have some skating experience, you may find the transition to figure skating easier than someone starting from scratch. Basic skating skills like balance and gliding will be beneficial as you build your foundation in more advanced techniques.
Coaching
Finding a good coach can make a big difference in your progress. A coach can help you with techniques, jumps, spins, and choreography tailored to your skill level. A supportive and experienced coach can guide you effectively, helping you to overcome challenges and improve your performance.
Commitment
Like any sport, figure skating requires dedication and practice. Regular lessons and consistent practice will help you improve faster. Consistency is key in building muscle memory and mastering new skills. A daily routine, even if it's just a few sessions a week, can significantly impact your progress.
Community
Joining a local skating club can provide you with support, camaraderie, and opportunities to compete. This community aspect can enhance your experience and keep you motivated. Being around other skaters can also provide inspiration and help you visualize what you can achieve.
Goals
Consider what you want to achieve in figure skating. Whether it's for fun, fitness, or competition, having clear goals can help keep you motivated. Setting realistic targets can provide a roadmap for your journey and help you stay focused on your aspirations.
Overall, many skaters have successfully started at your age and gone on to enjoy the sport. So, don't hesitate to pursue it!
A Career in Skating
If you are looking for a career in skating, I would say it might be a bit too late. However, if it is just for a hobby and something you enjoy doing, I say it is never too late. I always see the 70-year-old women at my local skating rink just enjoying themselves on the ice.
Motivation and Goals
It's never too late to start, but keep in mind that to be nationally acclaimed, it will take massive amounts of training, time, and motivation. If you are simply looking to enjoy a new sport, then I say go for it, but do not go in with unreasonable expectations.
It’s never too late to participate in adult competitions. Many adults continue to compete well into their adult years, enjoying the sport and the camaraderie.
Success Stories
Sasha Cohen, a gymnast who didn’t start skating until age 7 and didn’t get serious until she was 11, and Johnny Weir, who didn’t start skating until he was 11 and started with roller skates in his basement, both made the Olympics. While they are exceptional, they prove that it is possible to achieve significant success at any age.
I knew someone who didn’t start figure skating until she was in her late 20s. A few years later, she was working on her double axel. While she was never going to be spectacular, she was excellent and maybe if she had started when she was 5, she would have been amazing. But most importantly, she had fun. I’ve known other adults who started as adults and ended up on adult synchronized skating teams.
You’re 16. You can start figure skating and, if you have some natural talent, you will be able to compete before you start college. My guess is that you’ll make it to Open Juvenile if you end up loving it and skating 5 days a week with a coach but it’s also just fine to skate and love the feel of the wind. After you get to the point where you want private lessons, find a coach that understands your goals.
Conclusion
Starting figure skating at 16 with some skating skills is a great opportunity. With the right approach, dedication, and a supportive community, you can enjoy this beautiful sport and achieve your goals. So why not give it a try and see where your journey takes you?