flexibility coaching with
zarah wood
Why is flexibility training important?
Flexibility training is an essential part of figure skating, helping skaters improve positions, extension, artistry, and overall performance quality while also reducing the risk of injury. Good flexibility and mobility can enhance spins, spirals, spirals, jumps, and general movement efficiency on the ice, allowing skaters to perform with greater control and confidence.
Every skater’s body and goals are different, which is why sessions are tailored to maximise each athlete’s potential. Programmes focus on safely improving flexibility, strength, and body control in a way that supports long-term development and performance.
About zarah
Zarah is a competitive pair skater who has been skating since she was six years old. She transitioned into pair skating at the age of 15 and discovered her path in competitive skating. She has developed the skill and experience required to compete at the highest levels of junior international pair skating.
Her high-level performance training led her to win the Junior Pair National title in 2024, after which she went on to compete for Great Britain at the Junior World Championships. Throughout her competitive seasons, she has achieved international gold medals and competed in four Junior Grand Prix events.
Alongside competing and training, Zarah is a qualified Level 2 BIS coach and has been mentored and coached by an Olympic coach since the age of eight. Strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility are all important qualities that skaters should develop and continually improve. Training under an Olympic-level coach has provided her with high-performance preparation and invaluable insight into the importance of effective training.
She strongly believes in developing athletic ability off the ice to maximise skaters’ performance on the ice. She delivers 1:1 and small group Flexibility sessions.
Zarah is a passionate coach who loves creating a positive environment while refining technical ability. As an athlete herself, she is able to put herself in the skaters’ position and support each individual with their personal goals and needs. She believes that making productive training enjoyable is extremely important — everyone should have the opportunity to thrive in this sport.
from me to you
One thing people are often surprised to hear is that I was not naturally flexible at all. Flexibility was something I had to work incredibly hard at throughout my skating career, and I know firsthand how frustrating and challenging that journey can sometimes feel. What made the biggest difference for me was training in an environment that was positive, engaging, and enjoyable — it helped build habits and consistency that stayed with me throughout my entire career and ultimately supported me all the way to the Olympic level.
I’m so passionate about offering this support to other skaters. Zarah is someone I trained closely with and trust completely. Their passion, knowledge, and ability to create a motivating environment makes sessions both productive and enjoyable, helping skaters build confidence, improve safely, and reach their full potential.