Connecting Our Community Through Skating​​

CanSkate – Learn to Skate for All Ages 


Prerequisite: Skaters must have acquired the skills taught in PreCanSkate before registering for CanSkate.

CanSkate is Skate Canada’s flagship learn-to-skate program, designed for skaters of all ages who are ready to build on the fundamental skills taught in PreCanSkate.

When you sign up for CanSkate, your skater will participate in a 50-minute session focused on fun, participation, and progressive skill development. Skaters earn ribbons, badges, and other incentives as they master new skills. Lessons are taught in a group format with plenty of individual verbal and hands-on feedback. All sessions are led by NCCP-certified professional coaches with specialized training in the CanSkate program, assisted by trained volunteer Program Assistants. The coach-to-student ratio is a maximum of 1:10.

CanSkate is the official feeder program for all other Skate Canada skating programs and is endorsed by Hockey Canada as the preferred learn-to-skate curriculum before entering a hockey program. Recognized by other major ice sport organizations as the best foundation for figure skating, ringette, and speed skating CanSkate focuses on the ABCs of skating — Agility, Balance, and Control — and teaches forward and backward skating, stopping, turning, jumping, and developing speed, flexibility, and power.

Why Choose EGSC’s CanSkate Program?
EGSC has been awarded Skate Ontario’s CanSkate Excellence Exceeded Standard. Our format is based on Sport Canada’s Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) principles.

Our program offers:

  • Awards and incentives to keep skaters motivated
  • Proven teaching methods that accelerate skill development
  • A curriculum that prepares skaters for hockey, ringette, speed skating, and figure skating
  • Fun, engaging sessions that develop agility, balance, control, speed, and confidence on the ice


The CanSkate Curriculum

Skaters rotate through three Fundamental Movement Stations:

  • Balance – forward strides, glides, edges, crosscuts
  • Control – backward skating skills, stopping
  • Agility – turning, spinning, jumping, challenges

There are 6 Stage Badges and 18 Fundamental Movement Ribbons. Skaters progress at their own pace, moving to the next skill level as soon as they complete the previous one. Each station reinforces known skills, introduces new ones, and challenges skaters with skills above their current level.
A special Challenge Zone station provides opportunities to apply skills in creative ways, practice timed drills, and try exciting new challenges.

What to Wear
Helmet: All skaters must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet (cage optional) until they have passed Stage 5.
Clothing: Mittens, splash or snow pants, layered clothing, and a warm sweater or coat.

Choosing Skates
Quality skates are the most important piece of equipment.

Look for:

  • Good ankle support and proper fit
  • Hockey skates for beginners or reputable figure skates (e.g., Figure Skating Boutique, Jackson brand from Canadian Tire)
  • Toe picks on figure skates must remain intact

Avoid:

  • Skates from hardware stores
  • Plastic buckle skates (they may open on falls and limit ankle movement)
  • Adjustable skates (they make balancing more difficult)

Our coaches can assist with skate fitting. Important: Sharpen skates before first use to avoid slipping and falling.

Helmet Fit Guide

  • Helmet should fit snugly with no shifting
  • Chinstrap should be adjusted to fit gently under the chin
  • The rim should be one finger width above the eyebrow
  • Try different brands for comfort
  • Look for the CSA certification sticker

Only CSA-approved hockey helmets are permitted. Other helmet types (e.g., bicycle helmets) are not suitable for ice use. Face masks are optional but recommended for younger skaters. Used helmets are acceptable if they meet CSA standards, are in good condition, and have not sustained damage.

Safety Policy
Per Skate Canada policy, all skaters who have not passed CanSkate Stage 5 or who lack strong balance and control must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet while on the ice.

Faster Progression
Skaters progress more quickly when attending multiple sessions per week. EGSC offers discounted rates for multiple-day registrations. Contact us for pricing details.

Questions? Contact our CANSkate Program Director at programdirector@egskatingclub.com