FAQ

LV Skating offers private skating lessons in the Capital Region, specializing in figure skating, learn-to-skate, and hockey power skating. Lessons are led by USFS Gold Medalist Lauren Varga and delivered through a dual-discipline method that blends figure skating technique with hockey performance training.

Lauren Varga is a U.S. Figure Skating Gold Medalist and skating specialist who coaches figure skaters, hockey players, and new skaters of all ages. She combines USFS technical foundations, hockey power skating mechanics, and modern skill-development research to help skaters improve efficiently and safely.

Lessons take place at multiple rinks across the Capital Region, including:

• Saratoga Springs Ice Rinks (Weibel & Vernon)
• Schenectady Airport Ice Rink 
• Glens Falls Recreation Rink
• Clifton Park / Albany area rinks (as available)
• Gavin Park outdoor rink in Gansevoort (seasonal)

Location is confirmed based on safe, uncrowded ice availability.

Lessons are typically available on weekday mornings, early afternoons, selective evenings, and weekends, depending on rink schedules.

Availability changes seasonally with hockey and figure skating sessions.

The Intro Evaluation (30 minutes) includes:

• Warm-up & movement screening
• Edge control assessment
• Stride efficiency review
• Acceleration & transitions check
• Strengths + opportunities summary
• Next-steps training recommendations

LV Skating uses the Edge & Speed Progress System, which includes:

• Baseline edge + speed testing
• Video analysis
• Signature technique drills
• Periodic retesting
• Progress summaries

Yes. LV Skating specializes in hockey skating technique for all age levels. Hockey players benefit significantly from figure skating-based edgework.

Training focuses on:

• Faster starts
• Stronger edges
• More efficient crossovers
• Better transitions
• Improved balance + posture
• Increased game-speed agility

Yes. Lessons include:

• Edges
• Turns
• Power pulls
• Body alignment
• Basic skating skills

Perfect for beginners through intermediate/advanced skaters.

Absolutely. LV Skating welcomes beginners and adult skaters. Beginner lessons focus on:

• Balance
• Gliding
• Stopping
• Confidence on the ice

Adult lessons are popular for both recreation and skill refreshers.

For hockey skaters: helmet with cage, gloves, sharpened skates (stick optional).

For figure skaters: properly fitted figure skates, gloves, hair secured.

For learn-to-skate: warm layers, gloves, and a helmet recommended.

LV Skating combines:

• USFS Gold Medalist technique
• Hockey-specific skating mechanics
• Evidence-based motor learning strategies
• A supportive coaching style
• A measurable progress tracking system
• Serving the entire Capital Region: Saratoga, Albany, Clifton Park, Schenectady, Queensbury, and Glens Falls

This approach creates confident, fast, technically strong skaters.