You can practice skating without waiting for the right partner.If you want to practice gliding or stopping, hit the ice rink.You will be able to go faster as you improve.If accidents happen, you need to practice stopping and falling.
Step 1: Wear clothes that are lightweight.
You need full mobility of your body when you're ice skating.Don't wear heavy winter coats.Wear a light jacket, fleece sweater, or sweatshirt.If you get too hot while skating, you can take off your sweater.To keep a scarf out of your way, tuck it inside your sweater or jacket.
Step 2: Put on tights or socks.
Buy microfiber socks or specialized skating tights.If you borrow skates from the rink, you're at risk of developing an infection if you don't have socks on.bulky socks can make your skates less secure.Microfiber socks absorb water and keep feet warm, as opposed to cotton or wool socks.
Step 3: If you want to avoid injury, purchase a high quality pair.
Cheap pairs can make you vulnerable to ankle sprains.Choose an ice skate brand with positive reviews.Ask the original owner why they're selling them if you buy a used pair.You should try on shoes before you buy them.Employees can help you find the right fit if you buy your shoes at an athletic specialty store.
Step 4: Before you hit the ice, warm up.
Warming up before ice skating can help prevent sore muscles after you're done.You should stretch your legs over the rink barriers.You can stretch your upper body by raising your arms out to your sides and rotating them in circles.Warming up takes five to ten minutes.Before you put on your skates, complete your warm ups.
Step 5: You need to tighten your skates.
If you fall or roll your ankle on ice skates that are too loose, you are at risk.Make sure your skates are tight.It's important to keep your skates tight around the area where your foot and ankle bend, so pay special attention to that area.If you're unsure how to tighten your skates, ask the employee at the skating rink.
Step 6: Stay near the rail.
If you hold tightly to the rail as you skate, you won't feel bad.Skaters are kept upright by the rails built into skating rinks.The rail can help you get used to the surface.
Step 7: Stay balanced as you skate by bending your knees.
You will be able to maintain your center of gravity with this.Pretend you are sitting in a chair and lower your bottom into a semi-sitting position.If you feel wobbly, hold your arms out at a 45 degree angle and lean forward.
Step 8: Slowly, step away from the rail.
Lift your hand away from the rail when you're ready.If you want to minimize the chance of falling, bend your knees and lean forward.If you have to return your grip, stay within an arm's length of the rail.
Step 9: Start by gliding.
It can be done quickly or slowly, and is a simple method of moving forward.Take small steps with your skates.As you gain traction, take slow steps but step more quickly.Pick up one foot and skate until your feet move forward with little effort.If you lose your balance, grab the rail.
Step 10: If you want to skate faster, bend your knees further.
You can add some speed by bending your knees.You can increase the power you put into your glide by taking more steps.If you fall, lean forward so that you don't hit your head.Take your time.You don't have to be as fast as a figure skater on the ice.
Step 11: Turn with your dominant foot.
Lean your body towards the center of the ice rink by putting your dominant foot forward.As you turn, bend your knees.Hold this position until you complete the turn, then switch back to gliding once you're in a straight line again.
Step 12: Don't use the flat part of your blades.
Push the flat part of your blades against the ice.Put one foot out and bend your knees to add pressure to the flat part.You will be brought to a gradual stop.The "snowplow stop" is ideal for beginners.You can try more complex techniques as you continue skating.If you practice stopping safely, you will know what to do in an emergency.
Step 13: Wear wristguards and a helmet.
There is a serious risk for head injuries when ice skating.The risk of concussions is greatly reduced by wearing a helmet.Wristguards protect your hands if you fall.Young children and inexperienced skaters can wear knee and elbow pads.
Step 14: You should stay focused on your surroundings.
Give yourself plenty of room to practice and watch out for other skaters.Use your peripheral vision to stay aware of what is happening around you.If you are skating in a crowded ice rink, close your eyes.During your first time on the ice, don't wear headphones.Hearing and sight are equally important when skating.
Step 15: While you skate, keep your head up.
Skaters make the mistake of looking at their feet.This ruins your center of gravity and removes your focus from your surroundings.Keep your eyes level with the horizon, if you find yourself looking down.
Step 16: You must fall on the ice safely.
You don't know when you'll fall on the ice, so practice what to do.To avoid hurting your wrists, bend your knees and squat forward.Place your feet between your hands and lift yourself up if you feel safe enough to do so.Practice falling off the ice in a controlled environment.