I ask myself why all of the time-- especially when I start adding up costs and personal time, I hear about all of the horror injuries that some have sustained in the sport ...

And then I step onto the ice, and it's magical.

I skate because I love feeling strong and graceful. I skate because it is hard and I love the challenge.

And, apparently, I skate because I must want to be broke! (uhm, I wouldn't use that as an ambassador! )

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When asked what his "secret" to success was, Wayne Gretsky said: "Skate to where the puck is going and not to where it has been."
Is the figure skating version of this: Skate as if you're doing an axel and not just learning how to hop?

Interesting question. I guess my answer is mostly like everyone elses': it keeps me fit, I've lost weight, I like the challenge, and it's a great form of escape from life's stresses. I love the social side - I've met some great people.

I'm struggling financially at the moment, and feel I'm making such slow progress, so I often find myself asking the question 'Is it worth it?'. But everytime I contemplate giving up, within a day or so I'm itching to get back on the ice. It feels like skating has well and truly become part of my life.

As for what I want out of skating? Well, it's difficult to say, as my goals are always moving. At the moment, I want to get better at dance, learn some new footwork/MIFs, sort out my lutz, create a new freeskate programme, and do some tests.

S xxx

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There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness"

My expectations keep changing. But I am satisfied with my progress after 10/11 years of being able to step onto the ice and feel comfortable. That was my goal (feeling comfortable) being able to skate without fear.

I do it because it's fun and great exercise.

You've got it exactly, on all counts. *nothing* feels like skating, and I've never in my life been so fit and strong. I'm edging up on 40 and I'm ok with that because I feel better now than I did at 30 or even 20.