The Excitement of Figure Skating

Image via WikipediaIf you've ever admired figure skating in the Winter Olympics, why not try it for yourself? If you've mastered the basics of ice skating, figure skating can provide a fun and exciting challenge.

Figure skating is a type of ice skating that involves learning difficult routines and movements on the ice. Many people love to watch amateur and professional figure skating because the competitors are able to gracefully twist, leap, and twirl around as they glide along the ice.

The most difficult element of figure skating for most people to master is spinning. The faster you skate the faster you can spin, but keeping your balance and going from a spin back to skating without being disoriented is not a simple feat. The secret is to center the ice skates as you go into the spin. This will give it a uniform look and keep the body from looking like it is moving from side to side during the spins.

There are plenty of different types of spins that an ice skater can perform once you have the basic concept. Some require both feet to be on the ice with the leg straight and others require the knees to be bent and the skater in a squatting position. Others require one leg to be lifted off the ground at hip length or even placed behind the head! It takes plenty of skill to be able to do this with ice skates on so be ready to practice long and hard!

Image via WikipediaFor most of us, figure skating is something we will continue to watch from the stands or on TV. While it is an exciting winter sport, figure skating often requires too much time and effort for most people to put into learning. However, if it is something you've always wanted to try, don't hold back! Look for a rink that offers classes, and try a few to see if it is really up your alley. You may find it is not for you, or you may discover a new passion that offers great exercise and fun combined!



(Remember to consult with a qualified instructor as well as your personal trainer, to make sure you are in good enough shape to try figure skating, and that you are performing the moves correctly to avoid injury.)