Smart Skating
Oxford Ice Skating
Hi, I’m Lydia Smart, an ice skating coach in Oxford. I’m a Team GB figure skater competing as one of the top 2 Pairs Teams in Britain. I compete across the world with my teammate, Harry Mattick. I’m a British Ice Skating Level 2 coach and so am qualified to teach all levels. Whether you are a total novice or a seasoned competitor, I will be able to help you with your ambitions. Alongside coaching and competing, I have worked with TV companies such as the BBC and Netflix as a double and as part of a docuseries.
If you are a busy individual looking to fit in around work or school do not worry, I am able to coach both inside and outside of working hours. Many students book regular slots with me, though ad hoc lessons are available.
Maybe you have seen the Winter Olympics, perhaps it was a movie or tv show, otherwise it could just be that you always wanted to learn. There has never been a better time than today. Enjoy a sport that promotes a healthy and active lifestyle whilst also allowing a sense of freedom whilst you glide across the ice. At Oxford, I coach to the British Ice Skating Basic Skills Programme for beginners which teaches skaters to move with confidence up to spinning and jumping. This can be found here.
Oxford Ice Skating Competitor
Competing at the Senior level internationally for Team GB is a great honour for anyone. To do it in a sport that you love makes it all the more special. I have had this honour for 2 years now and I am adamant that I will continue doing so for many years to come.
Training and working side by side is a demanding regime, not that I am shying from the challenge. However, sponsorship will always be welcome from those generous enough to wish to support an athlete.
Other Work
Throughout my skating career I have been blessed with some amazing opportunities as both an ice skating coach and as a competitor. I have worked with celebrities, coaching them for television shows for various producers, including the BBC and Netflix. I have doubled on screen for actors doing scenes which required high level skating ability. The team, Harry and I, have been the focus of documentaries. We have also been hired during the festive season to open temporary ice rinks around the country.
Should you wish to hire my skills for any of the above, or indeed any other reason please do reach out me. I will be happy to help.
About Me
As A Competitor
Hi, I’m Lydia Smart and I compete internationally as a Team GB figure skater. I compete in the Senior Pairs category with my skating partner Harry Mattick.
We have been competing in the Senior category for 2 years now. Together we have competed for a further 6 years cumulatively in Seniors as solo skaters prior to joining forces in 2020.
We train as a team in Oxford and Swindon and are currently in the top two Pairs teams in Britain. Our aspiration is to compete at the Winter Olympics.
As An Oxford Ice Skating Coach
Alongside training, I am a fully qualified Level 2 British Ice Skating Coach. I teach all abilities and all disciplines at Oxford Ice Rink.
Taking children and adults alike from their first step onto the ice, through to competitions.
To find out what lessons look like, click the button below:
Having spent almost 2 years with Lydia, she's helped me develop significantly in my ice skating. From revising and perfecting my basics to pushing me out of my comfort zone to try double jumps. She's been gently encouraging and her strong belief in my ability has grown my confidence on and off the ice. I've found her teaching style reassuring and affirming as she is intuitive and adept at handling any apprehension. Lydia has kept lessons engaging and fun, she's someone I truly admire. I genuinely believe Lydia would be an excellent coach for any age, ability or background.
Hannah Cioci
Adult Skater