Ai K.

I have over four years of experience coaching figure skating through both Learn to Skate USA and U.S. Figure Skating (USFSA) programs, working with a wide range of skaters from beginners to more advanced athletes. During this time, I have led both group lessons and private instruction, tailoring my coaching methods to meet the individual needs and goals of each skater. In group settings, I focus on creating an engaging and structured environment that promotes skill development while encouraging teamwork and confidence.
In private lessons, I provide more personalized instruction, emphasizing technical precision, proper fundamentals, and consistent progress. I also have experience choreographing programs for skaters, helping them develop performance quality, musicality, and artistic expression alongside their technical skills. My coaching has included both youth and adult skaters, allowing me to adapt my communication style and teaching approach for different ages and learning styles.
Through my experience, I have developed a strong ability to motivate skaters, build confidence, and support their growth both on and off the ice.

I began figure skating at the age of six and competed actively throughout the Illinois area until I was sixteen. During those formative years, I trained consistently and participated in local competitions, developing a strong technical foundation and a deep appreciation for the discipline, artistry, and dedication required in the sport. Competing helped me build resilience, time management skills, and confidence under pressure, as well as a commitment to continual improvement both on and off the ice.
After stepping away from skating for approximately ten years, I made the decision to return to the sport with renewed passion and perspective. This return has strengthened my connection to skating, allowing me to approach training with maturity, focus, and a greater understanding of personal growth. My experience as both a competitive skater and a returning athlete gives me a unique perspective on perseverance, adaptability, and long-term athletic development, all of which continue to influence my involvement in the sport today.

Each lesson session is designed to provide a structured yet flexible approach to skill development, beginning with an off-ice or on-ice warm-up to prepare the body for physical activity. The warm-up includes light skating, stretching, and basic movement exercises to improve flexibility, activate muscles, and reduce the risk of injury. Once properly warmed up, the session transitions into focused edge work, where skaters practice control, balance, and precision through edges, turns, and footwork patterns that build a strong skating foundation.
Following edge work, attention shifts to spins, with an emphasis on proper entry, centering, and body alignment. Skaters work on improving rotation speed, consistency, and variation in spin positions. After spins, the lesson moves into jumps, where technique, timing, and confidence are reinforced through repetition and targeted drills.
Throughout the session, posture, body awareness, and other key techniques are continuously addressed as needed, ensuring that skaters maintain proper form and develop efficient movement patterns. Each session concludes with a brief review and feedback to reinforce progress and set goals for future lessons.