How to Glide on Skates

Skating is a unique experience because it allows for motion with little resistance. A skater's body is supported on two thin metal blades with very little surface area and almost no friction on the ice. Hockey players and figure skaters make skating look effortless, but are only able to do so after thousands of hours of practice and training. You may not immediately be able to make any fancy moves, but you can begin gliding on skates within minutes and enjoy the experience of skating on ice.

Things You'll Need

  • Helper (optional)
  • Ice rink
  • Skates
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure your skates fit comfortably when you put them on. It is important they fit for stability and sustained comfort as you skate. Tie the skates starting at the bottom. Hold your thumb on the laces as you move up so that they retain their tension. Tie the skates all the way to the top. Wrap the remaining laces -- if applicable -- around the back of the skates and tie them at the front. Avoid tying them too tight to maintain good blood circulation.

    • 2

      Support yourself on someone that can skate -- if possible -- when you get on the ice. If there is no one there to help you, hang on to the boards or the railing surrounding the ice rink. Stand on the ice, keeping your weight centered and balanced on your skates. Pull yourself along the boards or let someone pull you to gain speed.

    • 3

      Turn using the sharpened edges of your skates while slightly shifting your weight. Turn your feet slightly in the direction you want to go. Start slowly until you feel more comfortable gliding on the ice. Slow down or stop by turning your toes in to create the shape of a snowplow with your skates. The edges of your skates will chafe the ice and slow you down.

    • 4

      Gain gliding speed on your own by using one skate to push and the other to glide. Turn one foot so it is positioned at least 45 degrees from the other foot. Angle your foot used to push so that the edge of the blade will hold in the ice. Hold your foot perpendicular to the direction you are going.

    • 5

      Keep the other foot straight in the direction you want to go. Push off with one foot and glide with the other. The other foot is then placed in the same way, in the direction you are gliding. Keep your back straight and knees slightly bent as this will help you keep your balance.

    • 6

      Sustain speed as you glide by repeatedly pushing off with one foot in an outward motion. Switch from one foot to the other as you push yourself along. Practice going slowly at first as it is easy to lose your balance and fall.