Where to start
FAQs
BEFORE CLASSES BEGIN
Q: Can I/my child take a trial class?
A: Unfortunately, we do not offer trial lessons. 1. Due to insurance requirements, we are unable to offer you a trial class without payment. 2. Our beginning levels often fill-up and we are unable to accommodate extra skaters who may or may not remain in the program. You are more than welcome to come observe a class from the stands/bleachers during our regular class times to see what the classes involve, however you may not go out on the ice. We also offer Public Skating (view our Schedule tab) which is a great way to try skating before deciding to sign-up for a lesson.
Q: Are ice skates available?
A: Yes, ice skates are available for a rental fee during your skating lessons. The skates must be returned at the end of each class. If you have not worn skates before, please arrive at least 20 minutes early to your first class to make sure you have enough time to find skates that fit properly. The cost is $2.00 per week or $12.00 for the entire session and is non-refundable for any reason.
Q: Do I need to buy ice skates?
A: You do NOT need to buy skates. You are welcome to rent skates that are available at the rink during classes. We do, however, recommend consulting your Skating Director as your child progresses to find out when the appropriate time is to invest in the skater’s own equipment. We rent sizes from Youth 7 through Adult Men's 14.
Q: Can my child use double bladed skates during class?
A: NO! Double-bladed skates do not let your child learn to skate. With 2 parallel blades they cannot use the edges of the skates and that is what allows them to learn all the skills required for ice skating.
Q: The ice skates hurt my feet. What should I do?
A: Ice skates do not feel like shoes and are known to feel tight and stiff when first learning to skate. If you try a pair of skates and they are pinching your feet or causing them to cramp, please try a different/larger pair. The skates should not be so big that your feet move around inside the skate and should be snug on your foot without pain. We also recommend wearing thin socks that reach above the top of the boot. Lastly, check with a coach or the Skating Director and make sure you’re tying your skates properly.
Q: What should I/my child wear to ice skating class?
A: For everyone, we recommend wearing warm but loose-fitting clothing that allows for ease of movement. Long pants (preferably not denim; consider snow pants or a fabric that is water resistant), a light sweatshirt and gloves/mittens are the perfect combination. Layers are also a great option! The rinks are cool inside, but not cold.
Q: What type of skates should my new skater use?
A: Typically, we find that beginning very young skaters in figure skates is easier for them. The blade on a figure skate has less curvature than a hockey blade and balance is easier to attain for a little one who isn’t quite steady on their feet. Having said that, every child is different and some will find the process equally fun and can progress just fine using a hockey skate when they’re starting their skating journey. The most important part as a parent is to be open-minded about any advice you may receive from your instructor or the Skating Director about what might work best for your child. If your child is excited to skate and you want to foster that excitement, make it your priority that they learn to love it. Wearing a figure skate when they are 3 will not prevent a skater from going to the NHL, just as wearing a hockey skate will not prevent them from learning a double axel down the line. Help them enjoy the process by finding what works!
Q: Are helmets required?
A: We STRONGLY recommend wearing a helmet, but we do not require wearing one. A winter sports helmet (i.e. a helmet for sledding, snowboarding, skiing, etc.) is the best option because they protect more of the back of the head than a bike helmet. These helmets are available at most sporting goods stores. If you do not have access to a winter sports helmet, the next best option is a bike helmet that fits the head correctly without slipping forward or back. Unfortunately, if you forget to bring a helmet, the East Lansing Ice Cube is NOT able to lend you one due to insurance liabilities.
CLASSES REGISTRATION
Q: I have a problem with my account that I created online. What do I do now?
A: Please call us at 517-336-4272 with problem details so that we can assist you.
Q: What is included in the class fee?
A: The fee you pay for class includes one 30-minute lesson once per week for the duration of the session, and 20-minutes of optional practice time per week. Additionally, your first session of the season, which runs from July 1st – June 30th, will include a $17.25 fee for your or your skater’s Learn to Skate USA Membership.
Q: Are there any discounts?
A: We do not currently offer discounts for class registrations.
Q: What is the refund or credit policy?
A: Our program does not provide refunds for any reason. Credits are given through week 3 of the program. Credits will only be issued for those classes not attended. All other circumstances will be given a review at management’s discretion. If a refund is granted a portion will be retained as a registration fee. In the event that a class session must be suspended/cancelled for any reason, a credit will be issued for any class that was not able to be held. No refunds will be given for any reason.
Q: We are currently taking classes but registration ends before the session is complete so I don’t know if I or my child will pass to the next level. What level should I register for?
A: We ask that you register AFTER your skater has been tested in week 5 of the program. Your instructor will inform you on test week (week 5) what the next recommended level is. You will receive an evaluation form from your instructor and will be able to go home that day and register online.
Q: My child has never taken ice skating classes before. What level should I sign him/her up for?
A: If you or your child has never taken lessons before, please register for either Snowplow Sam 1 or Parent-Tot (ages 3-5), Basic 1 (age 6-12), Teen (age 13-17) or Adult (age 18+), depending on the age of the person taking the class.
Q: I/My child has been skating for a long time, although we have never taken a class. Can we skip the first level?
A: We still ask that you sign up for the first level for their age group (see answer above). If you/your child has some skating experience and can easily perform all of the required skills, the instructors will work with you/them to find a more appropriate level for you/them once classes have begun. Please note that parents can be on-ice (while wearing skates) with the Parent Tot class ONLY.
ONCE CLASSES HAVE STARTED
Q: How do I find my class each week?
A: Each week of class, please check in at the registration table when you enter the rink and pick-up your or your skater’s nametag. On week 1, you will receive an explanation of how to find your class at this time. The color of the nametag will correspond to the color block where the skater’s will meet their instructor each week. There will be staff located in the lobby helping direct you as well. Please return your nametag to the registration table before you leave each week.
Q: What time are classes held this session? Why do class times vary from session to session?
A: Due to the large number of groups and classes, the time of classes can change slightly from session to session. Please refer to the registration information for each session for exact times of classes. The class schedule, which includes practice times, is always available on the Learn to Skate page of our website.
Q: Is there class this week?
A: While we try to have class every week, holidays, events at the rink and other scheduling conflicts mean that we have to skip some class days. We take all of this into account BEFORE registration opens and the dates are clearly listed on our website. All of the class dates are also listed on the confirmation email that you received after registering your skater(s). You can also find these dates on our website by clicking HERE.
Q: What is the make-up policy for the Learn to Skate classes? How do I schedule a make-up class?
A: Our policy is that you are allowed ONE make-up class per session by attending another section of your currently enrolled class on a different day of classes. For example, if you miss a class on Sunday, you can attend a class on Monday evening. All make-up lessons must be booked through the skating director the week you are trying to do your make-up. You may call or email ebanner@eastlansingicecube.com to check availability and set up the lesson; you will no longer be able to just show up. Students who attempt to attend a make-up class without following these steps will not be allowed to skate.
Q: We are going to miss more than 1 class this session due to vacation/sports/business trip/etc, can I get a discount for these missed classes?
A: We allow ONE make-up class per session without exceptions. If you are going to miss more than one class, you will NOT be allowed additional make-ups and NO credit/refund/discount/proration will be given for the additional missed classes. Our instructors will be present and ready to teach your skater, whether your skater is present or not.
Q: The winter weather outside is really bad, will you cancel class?
A: Classes will only be cancelled if East Lansing Ice Cube loses power or has a different building issue. If there is a snow day in your local school district, we are still open and still offering classes. We will NEVER cancel Learn to Skate due to weather.
Q: Do you only offer skating during the winter?
A: NO! We offer Learn to Skate in 6-week sessions ALL YEAR round. Our current and upcoming sessions will always be listed on this page.
CLASS LEVELS & ADVANCEMENT
Q: My child has never taken ice skating classes before. What level should I sign him/her up for?
A: If you or your child has never taken lessons before, please register for either Snowplow Sam 1 or Parent-Tot (ages 3-5), Basic 1 (age 6-12), Teen (age 13-17) or Adult (age 18+), depending on the age of the person taking the class.
Q: My child has skated several times and doesn’t fall. Why do I need to sign him/her up for a beginner class?
A: Ice skating is a sport where every skill learned at the beginning is one that develops into higher levels skills. Even if your skater has confidence on the ice, we need to make sure that he/she is able to perform the most basic of skills to a high level of ability. By signing your skater up for the beginning classes we are better able to make sure they can perform all of the skills appropriately before moving to the next level. If you or your child has some skating experience and can easily perform all of the required skills, the instructors will work with you to find a more appropriate level once classes have begun.
Q: What level is my child?
A: After you register for classes, we examine each student to make sure they are in the correct level based on age, experience, and mastery. If you are trying to register for a session and forgot what level you/your child previously took, please send an email to ebanner@eastlansingicecube.com so we can check our records for you.
Q: How can my skater develop faster?
A: There are several ways to master skills. First, you can take advantage of arena Public Skating offerings. Second, you can take additional classes, either another day of the class level you are already enrolled in, or if you are Basic 3 or above, consider joining our Aspire program. Please view our class descriptions and schedule HERE for more details.
Q: How do I (or my child) advance to the next level?
A: For each level, the students are required to master several required skills. These skills are different for every level and are presented in a specific order so that skills learned this session can build on those skills learned in all previous sessions. At the end of each session, you will be given an evaluation sheet which shows what skills your student has mastered and which skills still need improvement before moving onto the next level. Some levels are more difficult than others and students will most likely take them more than once in order to truly master the skills.
Q: What documentation will I receive at the end of my session?
A: On week 5 of the 6-week session you will receive a completed evaluation form detailing which of the required skills you have mastered. If you have mastered all of the skills required, you will advance to the next level. If you miss test week, you will be able to be evaluated on the final week of class.
WHAT COMES NEXT
The Aspire Program - Ages 5 - 9
Click Here to View our Aspire Page
Aspire offers skaters an affordable, comprehensive package program in a safe and supportive group training environment. Skaters will learn proper skill development and training techniques while sampling different skating opportunities and fine-tuning their fundamental skating skills. This program is meant to bridget the gap between Learn to Skate and our freestyle program. Skaters will train 2 days per week on and off the ice.
Private Skating Lessons
Click Here to Visit the Lansing Skating Club Website
The Lansing Skating Club operates out of the East Lansing Ice Cube. Skaters looking to enter private lessons do need skating experience and should contact Skating Director Erin Banner HERE for more information. Freestyle ice schedules can be viewed here.
Spring Ice Show
The East Lansing Ice Cube puts on an annual spring ice show that is open to all skaters registered in our programs from Learn to Skate through adult skaters. The show takes place the last weekend in April. Registration for the 2024 show will be available in November 2023. Please contact Erin Banner HERE for the online registration link.
I'm An Adult Interested in Figure Skating - What Comes Next?
Private Skating Lessons
Click Here to Visit the Lansing Skating Club Website
The Lansing Skating Club operates out of the East Lansing Ice Cube. Skaters looking to enter private lessons do need skating experience and should contact Skating Director Erin Banner HERE for more information. We do offer Adults Only Freestyle ice! The schedules can be viewed here.
Ladies Silver Blades
Learn more about the Ladies Silver Blades here
Did you skate as a child but hang up your blades when you grew up? Have you watched others skate and wished you could try? Are you looking for a fun fitness activity you can do in a relaxed, social atmosphere? SKATE WITH US!
Spring Ice Show
The East Lansing Ice Cube puts on an annual spring ice show that is open to all skaters registered in our programs from Learn to Skate through adult skaters. The show takes place the last weekend in April. Registration for the 2024 show will be available in November 2023. Please contact Erin Banner HERE for the online registration link.
My Child is Interested in Playing Hockey - What Comes Next?
Fall/Winter 8U Program
Sparties (Level 1) - Ages 4-7
Learn More About Our Sparties Program
Recommended as a first step for beginning hockey players who have completed a Learn to Skate class and have a solid base of fundamental skating skills.
Mini Mite - Ages 5-8
Learn More About Our Mini Mite Program
Mite - Ages 7-8
Learn More About Our Mite Program
Be A Player - Ages 9-12
Learn More About Our Be A Player Program
Summer Learn to Play
Ages 6 & Up
Emphasis on creating a fun, challenging environment for players to learn the beginning stages of balance, skating in equipment, and handling the puck. Learn to Skate prerequisite recommended. This program runs July through August. *Participants with limited hockey experience only
Spring Training Program
Ages 4 & Up
Professional coaching of individual skills and team concepts for hockey players of all ages and skill levels. Limited enrollment;Max student/instructor ratio- 8 to 1; Players grouped by skill/experience to ensure they are challenged to improve
I'm An Adult Interested in Playing Hockey - What Comes Next?
Adult Leagues
Learn More About Our Adult Leagues
18+, 30+ 40+ & 50+ Divisions Offered
Fall/Winter, Spring & Summer Leagues
Leagues are based by age. All players must meet the minimum age requirement. For more information please contact our Adult League Director, Matt Wisniewski HERE. *Team Registration Only
Fall/Winter Primetime
Learn more about our Primetime program here
Individual skating technique to improve balance, quickness, speed and control. Participants learn stickhandling, passing, shooting, offensive & defensive concepts and much more! For more information please contact our Adult League Director, Matt Wisniewski HERE.
Spring & Summer SAD League
Learn more about our SAD League here
The Suburban Ice Adult Developmental League is a great choice for beginning hockey players. Teams will be made based on level and ability after an evaluation skate to encourage even competition. For more information please contact our Adult League Director, Matt Wisniewski HERE.
What time are classes held this session? Why do class times vary from session to session?
Due to the large number of groups and classes, the time of classes can change slightly from session to session. Please refer to the registration information for each session for exact times of classes. The class schedule, which includes practice times, is always available on the Learn to Skate page of our website.
How do I find my class each week?
Each week of class, please check in at the registration table when you enter the rink and pick-up your or your skater’s nametag. On week 1, you will receive an explanation of how to find your class at this time, when your instructor will be holding up a colored sign that will match your skater's nametag. Each week you will then meet your instructor in the lobby and they will escort you or your skater onto the ice for class. There will be staff located in the lobby helping direct you as well. Please return your nametag to the registration table before you leave each week.
I/My child has been skating for a long time, although we have never taken a class. Can we skip the first level?
We still ask that you sign up for the first level for their age group (see answer above). If you/your child has some skating experience and can easily perform all of the required skills, the instructors will work with you/them to find a more appropriate level for you/them once classes have begun. Please note that parents can be on-ice (while wearing skates) with the Parent Tot class ONLY.
My child has never taken ice skating classes before. What level should I sign him/her up for?
If you or your child has never taken lessons before, please register for either Snowplow Sam 1 or Parent-Tot (ages 3-5), Basic 1 (age 6-12), Teen (age 13-17) or Adult (age 18+), depending on the age of the person taking the class.
We are currently taking classes but registration ends before the session is complete so I don’t know if I or my child will pass to the next level. What level should I register for?
We ask that you register AFTER your skater has been tested in week 5 of the program. Your instructor will inform you on test week (week 5) what the next recommended level is. You will receive an evaluation form from your instructor and will be able to go home that day and register online.
What is the refund or credit policy?
Our program does not provide refunds for any reason. Credits are given through week 3 of the program. Credits will only be issued for those classes not attended. All other circumstances will be given a review at management’s discretion. If a refund is granted a portion will be retained as a registration fee. In the event that a class session must be suspended/cancelled for any reason, a credit will be issued for any class that was not able to be held. No refunds will be given for any reason.
Are there any discounts?
We do not currently offer discounts for class registrations.
What is included in the class fee?
The fee you pay for class includes one 30-minute lesson once per week for the duration of the session, and 20-minutes of optional practice time per week. Additionally, your first session of the season, which runs from July 1st – June 30th, will include a $17.25 fee for your or your skater’s Learn to Skate USA Membership.
I have a problem with my account that I created online. What do I do now?
Please call us at 517-336-4272 with problem details so that we can assist you.
Are helmets required?
We STRONGLY recommend wearing a helmet, but we do not require wearing one. A winter sports helmet (i.e. a helmet for sledding, snowboarding, skiing, etc.) is the best option because they protect more of the back of the head than a bike helmet. These helmets are available at most sporting goods stores. If you do not have access to a winter sports helmet, the next best option is a bike helmet that fits the head correctly without slipping forward or back. Unfortunately, if you forget to bring a helmet, the East Lansing Ice Cube is NOT able to lend you one due to insurance liabilities.
What type of skates should my new skater use?
Typically, we find that beginning very young skaters in figure skates is easier for them. The blade on a figure skate has less curvature than a hockey blade and balance is easier to attain for a little one who isn’t quite steady on their feet. Having said that, every child is different and some will find the process equally fun and can progress just fine using a hockey skate when they’re starting their skating journey. The most important part as a parent is to be open-minded about any advice you may receive from your instructor or the Skating Director about what might work best for your child. If your child is excited to skate and you want to foster that excitement, make it your priority that they learn to love it. Wearing a figure skate when they are 3 will not prevent a skater from going to the NHL, just as wearing a hockey skate will not prevent them from learning a double axel down the line. Help them enjoy the process by finding what works!
What should I/my child wear to ice skating class?
For everyone, we recommend wearing warm but loose-fitting clothing that allows for ease of movement. Long pants (preferably not denim; consider snow pants or a fabric that is water resistant), a light sweatshirt and gloves/mittens are the perfect combination. Layers are also a great option! The rinks are cool inside, but not cold.
The ice skates hurt my feet. What should I do?
Ice skates do not feel like shoes and are known to feel tight and stiff when first learning to skate. If you try a pair of skates and they are pinching your feet or causing them to cramp, please try a different/larger pair. The skates should not be so big that your feet move around inside the skate and should be snug on your foot without pain. We also recommend wearing thin socks that reach above the top of the boot. Lastly, check with a coach or the Skating Director and make sure you’re tying your skates properly.
Can my child use double bladed skates during class?
NO! Double-bladed skates do not let your child learn to skate. With 2 parallel blades they cannot use the edges of the skates and that is what allows them to learn all the skills required for ice skating.
Do I need to buy ice skates?
You do NOT need to buy skates. You are welcome to rent skates that are available at the rink during classes. We do, however, recommend consulting your Skating Director as your child progresses to find out when the appropriate time is to invest in the skater’s own equipment. We rent sizes from Youth 7 through Adult Men's 14.
Are ice skates available?
Yes, ice skates are available for a rental fee during your skating lessons. The skates must be returned at the end of each class. If you have not worn skates before, please arrive at least 20 minutes early to your first class to make sure you have enough time to find skates that fit properly. The cost is $2.00 per week or $12.00 for the entire session and is non-refundable for any reason.
DO YOU HAVE A SKATING BACKGROUND?
How about joining our Learn to Skate team as an instructor! APPLY HERE
Can I/my child take a trial class?
Unfortunately, we do not offer trial lessons. 1. Due to insurance requirements, we are unable to offer you a trial class without payment. 2. Our beginning levels often fill-up and we are unable to accommodate extra skaters who may or may not remain in the program. You are more than welcome to come observe a class from the stands/bleachers during our regular class times to see what the classes involve, however you may not go out on the ice. We also offer Public Skating (view our Schedule tab) which is a great way to try skating before deciding to sign-up for a lesson.
What time are classes held this session? Why do class times vary from session to session?
Due to the large number of groups and classes, the time of classes can change slightly from session to session. Please refer to the registration information for each session for exact times of classes. The class schedule, which includes practice times, is always available on the Learn to Skate page of our website.
How do I find my class each week?
Each week of class, please check in at the registration table when you enter the rink and pick-up your or your skater’s nametag. On week 1, you will receive an explanation of how to find your class at this time, when your instructor will be holding up a colored sign that will match your skater's nametag. Each week you will then meet your instructor in the lobby and they will escort you or your skater onto the ice for class. There will be staff located in the lobby helping direct you as well. Please return your nametag to the registration table before you leave each week.
I/My child has been skating for a long time, although we have never taken a class. Can we skip the first level?
We still ask that you sign up for the first level for their age group (see answer above). If you/your child has some skating experience and can easily perform all of the required skills, the instructors will work with you/them to find a more appropriate level for you/them once classes have begun. Please note that parents can be on-ice (while wearing skates) with the Parent Tot class ONLY.
My child has never taken ice skating classes before. What level should I sign him/her up for?
If you or your child has never taken lessons before, please register for either Snowplow Sam 1 or Parent-Tot (ages 3-5), Basic 1 (age 6-12), Teen (age 13-17) or Adult (age 18+), depending on the age of the person taking the class.
We are currently taking classes but registration ends before the session is complete so I don’t know if I or my child will pass to the next level. What level should I register for?
We ask that you register AFTER your skater has been tested in week 5 of the program. Your instructor will inform you on test week (week 5) what the next recommended level is. You will receive an evaluation form from your instructor and will be able to go home that day and register online.
What is the refund or credit policy?
Our program does not provide refunds for any reason. Credits are given through week 3 of the program. Credits will only be issued for those classes not attended. All other circumstances will be given a review at management’s discretion. If a refund is granted a portion will be retained as a registration fee. In the event that a class session must be suspended/cancelled for any reason, a credit will be issued for any class that was not able to be held. No refunds will be given for any reason.
Are there any discounts?
We do not currently offer discounts for class registrations.
What is included in the class fee?
The fee you pay for class includes one 30-minute lesson once per week for the duration of the session, and 20-minutes of optional practice time per week. Additionally, your first session of the season, which runs from July 1st – June 30th, will include a $17.25 fee for your or your skater’s Learn to Skate USA Membership.
I have a problem with my account that I created online. What do I do now?
Please call us at 517-336-4272 with problem details so that we can assist you.
Are helmets required?
We STRONGLY recommend wearing a helmet, but we do not require wearing one. A winter sports helmet (i.e. a helmet for sledding, snowboarding, skiing, etc.) is the best option because they protect more of the back of the head than a bike helmet. These helmets are available at most sporting goods stores. If you do not have access to a winter sports helmet, the next best option is a bike helmet that fits the head correctly without slipping forward or back. Unfortunately, if you forget to bring a helmet, the East Lansing Ice Cube is NOT able to lend you one due to insurance liabilities.
What type of skates should my new skater use?
Typically, we find that beginning very young skaters in figure skates is easier for them. The blade on a figure skate has less curvature than a hockey blade and balance is easier to attain for a little one who isn’t quite steady on their feet. Having said that, every child is different and some will find the process equally fun and can progress just fine using a hockey skate when they’re starting their skating journey. The most important part as a parent is to be open-minded about any advice you may receive from your instructor or the Skating Director about what might work best for your child. If your child is excited to skate and you want to foster that excitement, make it your priority that they learn to love it. Wearing a figure skate when they are 3 will not prevent a skater from going to the NHL, just as wearing a hockey skate will not prevent them from learning a double axel down the line. Help them enjoy the process by finding what works!
What should I/my child wear to ice skating class?
For everyone, we recommend wearing warm but loose-fitting clothing that allows for ease of movement. Long pants (preferably not denim; consider snow pants or a fabric that is water resistant), a light sweatshirt and gloves/mittens are the perfect combination. Layers are also a great option! The rinks are cool inside, but not cold.
The ice skates hurt my feet. What should I do?
Ice skates do not feel like shoes and are known to feel tight and stiff when first learning to skate. If you try a pair of skates and they are pinching your feet or causing them to cramp, please try a different/larger pair. The skates should not be so big that your feet move around inside the skate and should be snug on your foot without pain. We also recommend wearing thin socks that reach above the top of the boot. Lastly, check with a coach or the Skating Director and make sure you’re tying your skates properly.
Can my child use double bladed skates during class?
NO! Double-bladed skates do not let your child learn to skate. With 2 parallel blades they cannot use the edges of the skates and that is what allows them to learn all the skills required for ice skating.
Do I need to buy ice skates?
You do NOT need to buy skates. You are welcome to rent skates that are available at the rink during classes. We do, however, recommend consulting your Skating Director as your child progresses to find out when the appropriate time is to invest in the skater’s own equipment. We rent sizes from Youth 7 through Adult Men's 14.
Are ice skates available?
Yes, ice skates are available for a rental fee during your skating lessons. The skates must be returned at the end of each class. If you have not worn skates before, please arrive at least 20 minutes early to your first class to make sure you have enough time to find skates that fit properly. The cost is $2.00 per week or $12.00 for the entire session and is non-refundable for any reason.
DO YOU HAVE A SKATING BACKGROUND?
How about joining our Learn to Skate team as an instructor! APPLY HERE
Can I/my child take a trial class?
Unfortunately, we do not offer trial lessons. 1. Due to insurance requirements, we are unable to offer you a trial class without payment. 2. Our beginning levels often fill-up and we are unable to accommodate extra skaters who may or may not remain in the program. You are more than welcome to come observe a class from the stands/bleachers during our regular class times to see what the classes involve, however you may not go out on the ice. We also offer Public Skating (view our Schedule tab) which is a great way to try skating before deciding to sign-up for a lesson.