Balancing on a thin blade atop a sheet of slick ice requires confidence, balance, and fluid movement. To excel at the highest levels, skaters depend upon their bodies and mind to emote thoughtful artistry and carefully crafted technical prowess. But skating takes a toll on your muscles and body. The PEAAC works with you and your support team to ensure that your body is primed for peak performance.
The PEAAC offers many skating-specific support services:
- A Sports Medicine Physician with experience in multiple skating disciplines (singles, pairs, ice dance, synchro, Theatre on Ice) who values you as a person and as an artistic athlete.
- Analysis of your technique by a medical practitioner experienced in treating skaters to identify potential weakness areas before injury occurs.
- A well-equipped gym and studio for technique analysis and off-ice training that includes Pilates reformers, spinning discs, a speedskating board, a ballet barre, a squat rack, and a functional trainer.
- Access to off-ice conditioning regimens from USOPC coach Tyrone Bennett.
- Work with physical therapists, chiropractors, and manual therapy practitioners to aid in relaxation and/or injury recovery.
- Consult with a nutritionist/dietician to better fuel your body for peak performance.
- Enhance body awareness and flexibility through Pilates, yoga, and other mindful movement classes.
- Improve mental skills to manage performance expectations, confidence, pressure, and resilience during the injury cycle.
Dr. Sara Walker traveled with US Figure Skating as the sole US medical provider for the ISU Challenger Series 2022 Lombardia Trophy in Bergamo, Italy. She has worked on many USFS and ISU events, including US Nationals, Skate America, and Four Continents. She trained with Dr. Ellen Geminiani at Boston Children’s Hospital and has worked with the Skating Club of Boston, where she was also a club member.