5 Must-Read Ice Skating Safety Tips

Winter is around the corner, but you still have time to find a new winter activity to get you energized, make you more active and give you a new perspective. Regardless of one’s age, everyone can enjoy ice skating, whether it’s with their family, friends, or coworkers. Below you will find some ice skating safety tips to check out before you start. You wouldn’t want to end up in one of our urgent care centers with an annoying sprain or strain. So, read this list of ice skating safety tips and stay informed of all the potential risks this sport bears. 

Always Wear a Helmet

A concussion is one of the most common injuries in ice skating. The reason you wear a helmet when you ride a bike, rollerblade, or skateboard is the same as why you should wear one when you go ice skating. You can rent helmets at your local ice rink. Otherwise, bring your own. Don’t worry about it making your hair look weird. Make sure it fits snugly. Your main concern should be avoiding a potentially harmful concussion.

The Skates Must Fit Correctly

Make sure the skates are comfortable whether you buy, borrow, or rent them. The fit might be one of the main reasons why you fail to learn how to skate properly. Getting a good fit on your ice skates will protect your ankles and feet. Doing anything you can to prevent potential injuries and protect your body when skating should be your top priority.

Falling Is a Valuable Skill to Learn

Ice skating injuries can include broken, strained, cut, or dislocated joints. If you want to learn how to protect yourself from falling, practice a few drops to the ground before you step onto the ice. Keep your limbs away from skate blades that are sharp, and make protecting your body your number one concern. It will be easier for you to grip the ice if you have wrist pads on; meanwhile, your arms will stay put.

Keep Your Blades Sharp

A set of dull blades increases your risk of falling and breaking your tailbone – which can be extremely painful. Ice skating rinks that rent skates will maintain them properly, but you should always check the skates by yourself. Ideally, blades should have a slight curve when sharpened properly. In case your blades appear to be flat, replace them.

Safety Distance

When rookie skaters start to fall, they may reach out to grab onto those around them. Beginners should be cautious about skating too closely with other skaters. Being the cause of someone else’s pain is the last thing you want to do.

Taking precautions to skate safely is imperative when going ice skating. Despite the fact that anyone can skate, don’t throw safety measures under the bus. Be prepared for what’s ahead, stay aware, and be safe.