by E Kuzmenko

Created on: January 20, 2008

There is nothing better than skating in the fresh air, feeling as if you're on top the world, whether it's on the permanent ice rink or the frozen pond outside in winter. Ice skating outside is refreshing and delighting, that is when you're warm and cozy but also comfortable in what you're wearing. You don't want to be bundled up in a parka that's so large you can't even move. Not only that but if you're wearing more than 3 layers of clothes it messes with your balance, which interferes with your skating and that altogether makes your skating time a hassle instead of a joyful time.

I have skated at about any ice rinks that you can imagine, my own that I made with the top layer of ice from water buckets in hopes of skating on my 'private' rink. Sadly it failed, but at least I tried. Skating outside in my back yard in my pond was one of the best memories I ever had, the best moments I ever witnessed. Even in Europe, the ice rinks are magnificent; they inspire, and give indulgence to what is really magical and beautiful in life.

TIPS FOR OUTDOOR ICE SKATING

OH THE WEATHER OUT SIDE IS FRIGHTFUL...

Yes, whether or not it may seem like it the weather outside is frightful; it's cold no matter what. Outdoor ice rinks only exist when it's nice and chilly, even in the all-year-round rinks they have freezers that keep them cold. Wear a jacket, gloves and a hat, if you get hot you can take it off, but if you don't bring a jacket and get cold, sorry guess you'll have to borrow somebody's...

BE SHARP NOT SORROWFUL

Be aware of what state your skates are in, if you have your own skates make sure they're sharpened, if not I guess you'll have to bear with what they have to offer. But obviously it's better to have your own skates, as they do offer their own comfort.

IM CLUMSY...

Do not be clumsy out on the ice rink! Outdoor ice rinks usually have a lot of people, it doesn't matter if it's six o' clock in the morning or midnight, people are always there, it doesn't matter if they're good or bad they're there. You don't want to be clumsy because you might cause a collision when trying to get past people, or whatever else. Even if you're not really good at ice skating doesn't mean you shouldn't have common sense. Don't hang on to the side boards like it's a matter of life or death; don't sit in the middle of the rink if your laces are untied. It seems silly, but it's really dangerous.

I WANT TO BE FREE TO DO WHAT I WANT...

Technically you CAN do whatever you want, but some times what you do isn't so smart. Just because a group of teens are doing the chicken dance and hanging on to each other doesn't mean you should, because skating with more than one person together is distracting and hazardous, don't do it. Because when you fall and topple each other it hurts, and obviously it will not be the proper way to fall if you do. Don't get too many 'free' ideas.

Overall, ice skating itself is about having fun and enjoying what you're doing, so when you get out there, skate your heart out. Make memories, with your friends or people you meet, but don't for a second think about letting your guard down, the ice in general is dangerous especially when people get TOO excited. The best tips for outdoor skating and overall skating in general are that you should be ware of your surroundings, this falls for everything and anything that we do. It's quite simple to use common sense and just be cautious, don't stress when going ice skating, take it easy and have fun. Good luck.

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