What is CanSkate?
Question: What is CanSkate?
In Canada, there is a program available for those who want to learn to ice skate called CanSkate. What exactly is CanSkate?
Answer:
CanSkate is the Canadian learn-to-skate program taught by NCCP (National Coaching Certification Program) certified professional coaches. Program assistants also help with the program.
A standard how to ice skate curriculum is implemented all across Canada.
It is geared to beginners of all ages and teaches the fundamentals of skating in a progressive and sequential manner. There is a lot of action and fun while learning the basics of skating. Skaters earn badges as skills are mastered.
There are six levels of skill progressions that a participant must pass to complete the CanSkate program. There is also an optional 7th level for those interested in figure skating.
Examples of CanSkate Progress Reports:
The badges are:
- Stage 1 Balance
- Stage 2 Glide Forwards
- Stage 3 Glide Backwards
- Stage 4 Edges
- Stage 5 Power
- Stage 6 Speed
- Stage 7 Optional (Pre-Preliminary)
Progress updates and report cards are given out. Participants can then decide whether they are satisfied with achieving the basics of skating or whether they would like to pursue figure skating.