What are figure skating competitions like?

Question

What are different types of competitions like? what are overnight competitions like? How do out of town competitions usually work for you? does your coach come with you to competitions? What are inhouse competitions like? what is a standard schedule for leading up to a competition (eating, sleeping, getting ready, etc.)? I know that the experience can vary depending on the country and the type of competition, but I was wondering about your experiences.
Thank You!!!!

Answer 1

My sister is in the junior level and competes constantly so I know some things. Yes, normally at competitions the coach is there with you. As my sister says, competitions are only fun if you are consistent with your jumps and everything. It can be nerve wrecking but the more you compete, the more you'll get used to it. There are minor and major competitions. For minor compeititons, normally my sister's coach doesn't come. At major compeititions like Nationals and all, that is real big so you got to get your game face on at Nationals because if you do good at Nationals at level Novice or up, your country will most likely send you out internationally. At a competition schedule, my sister would only eat a little because you don't want a cramp when you compete you know. Also get extra hours of sleep as well.

Answer 2

I've never been to an interstate competition as a competitor, so I'm afraid I can't help you there.



For a local comp, I don't really have a set schedule in the week leading up to a comp, except that I never train the day before or the day of a comp; it renders me too nervous and can shatter my confidence if I don't have a good one.



On the day of a comp, I sleep as long as I can, eat early, and clean my boots. Then I do my hair and makeup, and put on my dress, and some warm-up clothes over the top. I arrive at the rink usually at the start of the competition for the afternoon. There are no change rooms at my rink, at least none that are really fit to be changed in, so almost everyone turns up already dressed.

Answer 3

Well, it depends on the level and type of competition. There's no short answer to this question and no one experience. Every single competition is different.



What are different types of competitions like?

There's really no standard. But if it's a local competition, you go to the venue, sign in at registration 2-3 hours before you skate, and are given a change room number. You warm up, change, then go on the ice for a timed warm up. Then you compete.



what are overnight competitions like?

Again, they vary. But you'd stay in a hotel (either by yourself, with teammates, or with family), and return to the competition venue the next day. You usually have to sign in (and sometimes out) for each event.



How do out of town competitions usually work for you?

Well, my out of town competitions tended to be across the country (when I was skating I lived in a major city, where 90% of provincial and national competitions were held) or in Europe, a bit different from anything you'd be doing. But it depends if you're driving, flying, staying overnight, etc. Basically make sure you've packed everything (make a list) and plan to get to the competition in good time (look at traffic and weather reports; I've seen dozens of people miss their skate because of that).



does your coach come with you to competitions?

Mine always did. Most coaches charge a fee for out of town competitions (which can sometimes be split between multiple skaters).



What are inhouse competitions like?

As in… your home club? Way too complicated to answer. Literally every single one is different. Mine is just a standard competition.





what is a standard schedule for leading up to a competition (eating, sleeping, getting ready, etc.)?

Varies by person. I never had a special schedule. I always packed the night before, and made a list so I wouldn't forget anything crucial. Getting enough sleep is a good thing to do in the week leading up, as well as eating well (no chips or chocolate - lots of protein and fruits and veggies) and staying hydrated. But this was just a habit for me anyway, nothing I had to think about.