S.T.A.R.S stands for Standardized Testing of Athleticism to Recognize Skaters, it is a U.S Figure Skating program designed to help athletic abilities that support development of on-ice skills. It is meant to help you figure out where you are strong and where you need work in your athletic skills — specifically those that are most relevant to jumping, spinning and other skating skills.
All S.T.A.R.S. participants will complete a series of 15 off-ice assessments in the above categories and 7 anthropometry measurements.

Figure skating athletes who are at least 6 years old at the time of the S.T.A.R.S. Combine who have passed at least Pre-preliminary moves in the field can participate in S.T.A.R.S.

The S.T.A.R.S. guide was first developed to share exercises that are specifically related to each skill in the S.T.A.R.S. testing. The guide is not intended to be a complete or one-size- fits-all workout, it is an excellent starting point for you, your coach and trainer to plan out an effective off-ice fitness routine.

The guide can help you prepare for S.T.A.R.S. testing by guiding you through exercises that can help improve your flexibility, strength, power and agility — all of these areas will also help you on the ice.

While you should always consult your coach or trainer when beginning or modifying your off-ice training program, the exercises are basic enough to be done with a minimum of supervision. There are however some specific moves that you should only do under the supervision of an adult (preferably a coach or strength and conditioning specialist), and these are clearly marked in the S.T.A.R.S. guide. 

Club members Sara and Sarah are pictured here at the S.T.A.R.S Program event in West Palm Beach last weekend.

For more information on S.T.A.R.S visit their USFSA Page