Ice Skating 101

By Cary Magazine

One way to get into the holiday spirit this year is to go ice skating.

A couple of places in the Triangle are offering outdoor ice skating, either on real ice or plastic, and they include North Hills through Jan. 3; Triangle Town Center through Dec. 26 and AT&T Raleigh Winterfest in City Plaza through Jan. 31.

If you’re venturing onto the ice for the first time, consider these tips from the experts at the Polar Ice House, manager of the AT&T Raleigh Winterfest ice skating rink in City Plaza.

“We are so fortunate to have our very own Rockefeller Center in downtown Raleigh, and with a few safety precautions in mind, you will make fun memories and teach your child a skill that will last a lifetime,” said Randy Lee, general manager of Polar Ice House. “Ice skating is an easy-to-learn sport that can help you get in the festive winter spirit and stay active in the colder weather.”

Here are a few tips for skaters of all skill levels:

• Dress properly: Wear layers, bring gloves, do not wear jeans (tracksuit pants work well) and only wear one pair of socks. The ice rink is a place to bundle up.
• Make sure the skates fit properly. Tighten laces before stepping onto the ice
• Wear a bike helmet, which is recommended for young children or anyone insecure on the ice
• Avoid letting children become too dependent on taking steps. Guide them to lean on their weak foot and push outward and diagonally with strong foot.
• Enroll in a learn-to-skate program. Polar Ice House offers classes and track-out camps for preschoolers to adults. Visit www.PolarIceHouse.com for more information

Follow these tips to ensure a good time is had by all and the experience is injury-free. The AT&T Raleigh Winterfest ice rink is open seven days a week and admission is $6 (includes skate rental). Visit www.RaleighWinterfest.com for more information and tips.

Also, the Polar Ice House will host holiday performances of the figure skating show “Polar Ice Express” at the Garner location on Dec. 18 at 5:30 p.m. and at the Wake Forest location on Dec. 20 at 5:30 p.m.