So you’re interested in ice skating, I hope some of the following tips will come in handy either before you hit the ice,or once you’ve had a go.
Ice Skating Tip #1 Don’t look down
I’ve seen many people starting out in skating spend all their time looking at their feet rather than where they are going. I’ve found and read in other resourceful places that it’s best to keep your head up and look in front of you so at least you can see where people and walls are around you so you can avoid any collisions!
Ice Skating Tip #2 Good ice skates make a difference!
If you’re stepping out for the first time, then the hire skates available at most centres will be fine, however if you get the skating bug and decide to take it up I highly recommend buying a decent pair of skates that will last and most importantly, fit well and provide good support. I’ve still got and use my first set of good skates and get them sharpened fairly regularly.
Ice Skating Tip #3 Tying ice skates the correctly
The right skates for you may not show themselves if tied incorrectly! Make sure your skates are not too tight or your feet will likely go numb, while having your skates too loose will not provide the proper support for your ankles. Having them feel comfortable, secure yet not restricting blood flow will go along way in aiding your confidence on the ice.
Ice Skating Tip #4 Warm up for skating slowly
Given that skating takes place generally in a cold arena, your muscles are likely to be cold. Prior to skating, it’s not really wise to just throw your leg over a barrier and start stretching. Stretching in a cold environment can lead to muscle tears, so wrap up well (but not as to restrict your movement) and start with some bending and work up to stretching.
Ice Skating Tip #5 Get some skating lessons
If you really want to master the basics and progress properly, then taking some lessons is an absolute must. Take a few group lessons which are available at most ice rinks and for a variety of ages. Also take a friend along, as learning with someone will help you relax on the ice. I’ve been ice skating with friends and family and everyone has gotten the bug eventually!
Ice Skating Tip #6 Don’t lean backwards when skating
Leaning back will likely send you flying on your backside or worse embarrass you in-front of friends/family or at best complete strangers. The best advice is to keep your knees bent and your weight forward. Hold your arms out in front of you and open them wide to help you stay balanced.
Ice Skating Tip #7 Work out how to stop!
One of the basics you’ll need to know when learning to ice skate is how to stop. The best way to stop is to; bend your knees, turn the toes of each foot inwards, point your heels out, and push out on your heels. This will slow you down and bring you to a stop. Trust me it works!
Ice Skating Tip #8 Skate in the correct direction
While initially the direction you are skating may not be of your choosing, there is usually a directional rule to follow on the ice, either clockwise or vice-versa. Don’t try skating the wrong way round the ice rink as you’ll end up hurting others and quite possibly yourself. DON’T DO IT!!!
Ice Skating Tip #9 Make use of temporary rinks
If you are not fortunate enough to have a skating rink near you, then make the most of temporary ice rinks if one pops up near you. Christmas is a particularly good time to try to visit a temporary ice rink in some major cities, so go along, you’ll have a good time, whatever your skating experience. I’ve been to ones in London several times and they are great and it’s good to get on a rink outside in the open. They can get quite busy though so use it as a time to relax and enjoy rather than a time to practice.
Ice Skating Tip #10 Don’t take skating too seriously
When you fall down (and be sure you will), have a laugh about it and get right back up on your skates again. Don’t take yourself or your ice skating too seriously, after all, even the best end up on their backside from time to time. It’s even funnier if you do it in style!
