If you’re hitting the ice for the very first time at the Portsmouth, OH Winterfest, I’ve got some tips for staying upright on the ice.
I spoke with an ice-skating expert, Mike Mankowski, the program director at the Tam-o-Shanter Ice Rink in Toledo, Ohio about what you need to know.
- First, the skates. They should feel snug. Your heel should be as far back in the boot as possible but not slide. Pull the tongue all the way up and lace the boots tightly, but not too tight.
- Toes should not be pinched and you should be able to wiggle them once the boot is laced.
- Try walking on the ice for a bit to make sure they fit before skating.
- Skate size does not match shoe size. If they don’t fit, sit down to relace or get another pair.
The motion of ice-skating is very different from roller skating. According to Mankowski:
“Ice skating requires a lateral (~45 degree) push. This allows the inside sharpened edge to dig into ice and generate force to move.”
He advises adults hitting the ice for the first time to start with baby steps and make a marching motion. Lift up your knees and walk on the ice until you get steady. If you think you might fall reach out and grab your knees to steady yourself. Once they find their balance and feel steady, you can try gliding on two feet. If you do feel like you’re going to fall don’t try to break the fall with your arms.
Helmets are also strongly recommended for new skaters.
I hope you really enjoy Portsmouth, OH Winterfest!
For more information, check out these resources
https://sylvaniatamoshanter.com/
https://www.wikihow.com/Ice-Skate
https://www.parentmap.com/article/tips-for-teaching-kids-to-ice-skate
For more cold-weather party ideas, check out our recent story.