Signe Ronka, BA, CSCS, NCCP 2

Signe Ronka, BA, CSCS, NCCP 2

My name is Signe Ronka, founder and head coach of Figure Skater Bootcamp.

I was a National and International level figure skater representing Canada in multiple events throughout my career, where I medalled at five international competitions. I placed third in Canada at the 2001 Canadian Championships in Junior Ladies. In 2002, I represented Canada at the Junior World Championships. In 2003, I was the second Canadian skater to ever make the Junior Grand Prix Finals, competing with the top Junior level skaters in the world. My skating career ended in 2006, with a top ten finish in Senior Ladies.

Over the many years of competing, I often had to withdraw from competitions due to injuries, which ultimately ended my career. I spent most of my hours on the ice and very little time in the gym. At the time, fitness training was not considered a big part of my routine. But very soon after ending my career due to injuries, I discovered how crucial fitness training really is for figure skaters to prevent injuries.

After I retired from the competitive world of figure skating, I got a BA from University of Toronto and was hired by PwC (Pricewaterhouse Coopers) in Technology Consulting. Not only did I work at a big consulting firm, I kept my passion alive for figure skating by part time coaching and started Figure Skater Bootcamp in 2010.

Figure Skater Bootcamp is a sport specific fitness training program developed based on a studied scientific method of training, in order to maximize on ice potential and prevent injuries. As the program began to grow, I had to make a big decision, as working three jobs was not doable anymore. I left PwC and opened up my own fitness studio in the heart of the film district in Toronto. My goal became to help figure skaters understand the importance of sport specific training and to start making fitness part of their daily routine, whether they are beginner or elite. In 2011, I came out with a DVD, called Reach New Heights- The Ultimate Off-Ice Workout, which has sold hundreds of copies worldwide.

I am always eager to learn new things and keep up to date with the latest training methods. In 2014, I certified as CSCS (Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, one of the most recognized fitness organizations in the world.