My Movement: Figure Skating Has Taught Me So Much

 

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Carolane Soucisse is an Ice Dancer originally from Canada. She currently represents Ireland and is a 2023 Irish national champion with her partner Shane Firus.

Were you always into fitness?  

I was always very active even as a child. I would do multiple hours a week on the ice and I always had a love for artistic activities such as dance class and music. I really found my voice in figure skating at around 12 years old when I discovered ice dancing and this is where my international career started as a figure skater.

How did you first find figure skating?

I started figure skating when I was five years old. My mom was a figure skater until her early 20s and I grew up in Canada so ice skating was and still is a very popular activity so it is quite common for children to learn the sport at a very young age.

What do you love most about figure skating?

Figure skating is a very complex sport where you get to learn so many skills that will also serve you in your day-to-day life. Putting aside the physical and artistic aspect of figure skating, it also requires so much determination, dedication and perseverance. I have learned a lot throughout my competitive career so far but the sport is ever changing and it keeps pushing me to be better every day.

Do you think there are any misconceptions about figure skating?

I think there are more than one misconception about figure skating but the most important in my opinion is that figure skating is not for everyone. I believe that, regardless of your age, body shape or where you come from, anybody can figure skate. It is such a beautiful sport that has so much to offer and I think everybody who wants to should have the opportunity to learn and grow within the sport.

 

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How do you stay motivated?

The best way I found to stay motivated is to set personal goals for every training. Having a purpose for every time I step on the ice or every gym session keeps me engaged and also gives me a better sense of accomplishment at the end of each day.

If you’re not doing this, how else do you like to get moving?

One of my favourite ways to move other than my sport is Pilates. It is a practice that always leaves you feeling better and stronger and I also find it fascinating to learn more about your body, how it moves and how your muscles are interconnected.

What is your advice for people who are looking to get into figure skating?

Do it! Figure skating is such a great community where you can meet people, make friends and get active. Give yourself the time to learn and let yourself be creative. There is so much room for self-development in the sport whether you want to do it at a competitive or recreational level.

Why is movement important to you?

It might sound cliched, but moving my body everyday always makes me feel so much happier. The days where I don’t move at all, I crave it. It’s something that might seem hard to do but once you start you will feel the benefits right away.

This article first appeared in the December 2023 issue of STELLAR magazine. 

• ice skating
• my movement