How to Start a Speed Skating Race

The start of a speed skating race is critical for any successful skater. The initial burst that you receive from a sound start allows you to capitalize on your raising adrenaline and gain a step on the competition. There are a few steps that you can take to get off on the right skate during a speed skating race. Read on to learn more.

Things You'll Need

  • Protective glasses
  • Arm band
  • Skates
  • Speed skating suit
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Instructions

  1. Begin a Speed Skating Race Properly

    • 1

      Slide an arm band on your outside arm before you line up for a speed skating race. Each skater in a competition needs to wear an appropriate colored band so observers can keep track of the skater's starting point after he changes lanes. Red arm bands should be worn by the outside racer and white is appropriate for the inside skater.

    • 2

      Line up in your ideal starting position before you start a speed skating race. Most skaters begin in a crouched position with their lead foot and the opposite arm set away from the starting line.

    • 3

      Use the snow boundaries and the starting line to square your body to the race lane. Successful skaters look several feet ahead of them at the lane lines to help keep their body aligned properly and stay within the lane to avoid disqualification.

    • 4

      Lock into your starting position right away when the announcer calls for ready position. As soon as all qualifying skaters are lined up in their lanes, the official announcer will call out the word ready. Skaters who have not arrived at the starting line by the time ready is announced are disqualified.

    • 5

      Push off your front leg and take a large stride as soon as your hear the starting pistol. Successful skaters rely on the sound of the pistol rather than viewing the pistol's action to signal the start of the race.

    • 6

      Practice the exact starting procedure for international races with your team to avoid disqualification. Short and long track skaters can use one false start as a warning before an automatic disqualification is issued.