The Skinny:
Winter is obviously a pretty chilly time for many, but this doesn’t stop everyone from enjoying the great outdoors. When the temperature drops all sorts of people get lathered up for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing and, of course, ice skating. Ice skating, in fact, may be more popular than ever with more than 11 million annual participants thanks in part to the growth in ice rinks, which lets people glide away year-round. This is great news for people who love to skate. Unfortunately, ice skating can be pretty dangerous given the unforgiving nature of ice and the fact that lots of people are moving around quickly on metal blades. Every year there are about 500,000 related injuries, including knee tendonitis, hip strains, concussions, torn ligaments, rotator cup tears and even dislocated joints and broken bones. To start icing out skating injuries, plenty can be done with a little forethought and practice. Read on.
The Slate:
Shape Up
Ice skating is fun but demanding. This means people need to prepare before even hitting the ice by developing a strength and conditioning regimen that includes exercises needed to address the motions of skating. It is not a bad idea to include some cardio in any routine as well to get core muscles and legs ready for the movements and strains skating requires.
Be Equipped
Safe skating demands getting the right equipment and that starts with foot gear. Skates should fit well and be able to lace up properly for ankle support and stability. Also, skip using hockey skates unless familiar with them and you are about to play hockey.
Be Sharp
Skates may be well-fitted, but they can still create problems if not properly maintained. This means not only replacing broken laces but more importantly sharpening blades regularly.
No Dicey Ice
Ice is obviously essential for ice skating. But not all ice is created equal. Avoid frozen ponds or lakes unless the ice thickness and evenness are known and safe. Even ice rinks can offer problems. Before launching forward, make sure a rink’s ice is smooth and dry.
Wait To Skate
Given the demands of the sport, it is especially important to warm up before hitting the ice. Ten to 15 minutes of stretching, light running and calisthenics for legs, core and upper body can also help to prevent problems.
Hitting The Ice
Almost everyone falls at some time when skating—and lots of people fall regularly. Since the ice is rock-hard, it’s important to learn how to hit the ice safely. When balance is about to go, the best way down is to try and fall backward, allowing your butt to cushion the impact. If possible, roll slightly to one side to avoid a crushing blow to the tailbone and don’t use hands or arms to brace the fall. That’s a good way to fracture a wrist or dislocate a shoulder.
Eyes Up:
What are your go-to moves for skating safety? Let us know at wellwellusa.com.
WellWell editors independently identify services and products of interest. If readers purchase anything through the associated links, WellWell may earn a commission, which goes to support our work. Learn More.
