Ice skating isn’t just for Olympians or kids in snow pants—it’s for everyone. Whether you’re out for a leisurely twirl on a frozen lake or trying to keep up with your fearless toddler at the local rink, skating is pure joy on blades. It’s also sneaky-good exercise and a surprisingly fun way to embrace winter (or beat the heat indoors if you’re lucky enough to have year-round rinks).
Gear Up
Let’s talk gear. If you’re a newbie, skip the fancy stuff. Start with basic recreational skates—nothing too stiff, nothing too sharp. Bonus points if they don’t hurt your feet after 10 minutes. Don’t forget warm socks (but not thick ones that mess up the fit), gloves to protect your hands, and layers you can peel off once you’re feeling like a pro.
Pro tip: Try renting first to figure out what you like before dropping cash on your own pair.
Looking for a Rink
There’s a rink out there for everyone—city rinks, indoor arenas, lakes, ponds, even downtown pop-up rinks with music and hot chocolate on tap. If you’re lucky enough to live in a colder climate, outdoor skating is a winter rite of passage. For a more predictable experience (read: no slushy ice), check out indoor spots that often have beginner-friendly sessions.
Be Safe Out There
Okay, we get it—gear talk isn’t exciting, but safety matters. Falling is part of the process, but helmets (especially for kids) are a good idea. Always tie your skates tight (ankle support is your best friend), and make sure the ice is safe, especially if you’re venturing onto natural ice. Stretch before skating, and don’t be that person zooming around like a human Zamboni without checking for kids.
In Canada, around 34.9% of skaters suffer from fractures while on ice. So, we have to take our safety seriously.
Techniques and Skills
Start small. Really small. Like, “march-in-place-on-the-ice” small. Then practice gliding with one foot, bending your knees slightly, and keeping your arms out for balance. Learn how to fall and get back up—because you will, and that’s part of the fun. Once you’re steady, you can work on stopping (snowplow style) and maybe even turning like you’re on a mission.
Figure Skating
If you’re captivated by figure skaters spinning like tops on TV, why not try it yourself? You don’t need sequins or a coach to get started. Simple spins and turns can be learned in group lessons or online tutorials. You’ll build balance, poise, and hey, you might find your inner ice queen. Bonus: it’s a great core workout.
There are around 732,833 figure skaters in the world. So don’t give up your childhood dream just yet. Give it your best shot.
Just Go Out There and Glide!
Ice skating doesn’t care how old you are, what you’re wearing, or if you fall in front of a group of teenagers. It’s about moving, laughing, learning, and maybe turning winter into something you actually look forward to. So put on those skates, channel your inner penguin, and hit the ice—because life’s more fun when you’re gliding through it.
