A skater's W.E.A.R. Score provides basic information on all the elements that affect the edge sharpness of an ice skater's blade.
By using the W.E.A.R. Score Generator Tool, any skater can better understand how long their skate blade may hold its edge given these four key elements:
Skaters' Weight, Edge Blade Type, Abrasive Surface, and Rink Hrs per week.
Each of these factors directly impact the sharpness of your blades which will determine your overall W.E.A.R. Score.
(Note: Try refreshing your browser if you have trouble loading the tool)
How Do I Find Out My Skate Blade W.E.A.R. Score?
Follow each of the 4-steps below to calculate your overall skate blade W.E.A.R. Score on the graph above.
Note: The higher the Score, the duller the blade, and the need for additional sharpenings (or better quality skates, blades, or blade runners).
Easy 4-Step Instructions:
Step One
Weight: To start the W.E.A.R. Score generator, simply enter the skater's body weight, and the Weight Score will enter into the score field and onto the bar graph to begin the process.
Step Two
Edge: Using the Schedule above, enter the Score for the type of blade that the skater is currently using in the second field just below the Weight Score.
Note: If the skate blade is "Chrome-Plated," then deduct .5 from the scheduled Score before entering it into the score field.
Step Three:
Abrasion: As you can see, surface friction varies from fresh-cut arena ice all the way down to synthetic ice skating tiles (single-sided).
On Arena ice, skate blades will see more wear as the ice surface gets chopped up, much like you would see at any weekend public skating session.
Enter a score of 1 to 5 depending on the condition and quality of the ice with regard to how chopped up it is.
Note: (Synthetic Ice) Deduct .5 from the Score for Infused synthetic ice surfaces that have a conditioner or glide enhancer applied to the Surface.
Step Four:
Rink Hours: While the previous three W.E.A.R. Scores play a role in the overall sharpness of any skate blade, nothing affects the sharpness more than the time you spend skating on the ice.
Enter a score of 1 to 5 based on the "Rink Hrs. Per Week" Schedule above. You can combine any of the hours in the Schedule above to configure your total hours between skate sharpenings.
Example: To enter 14 skating hours add Scores 5 (12+ Hrs) plus 1 (1-2 hrs.) for a total score of 6 in the Rink Hrs. Score field above.
What's Considered a good W.E.A.R. Score?
You'll notice as your time on the ice increases, between practices, performances, and games, so does your W.E.A.R. Score.
Once your score exceeds a 4.5 rating, it's probably time to take a good look at your edges and consider getting them sharpened.
If you see that over time you seem to be sharpening your skates more often, you may want to consider upgrading your blade runners.
Like a faucet that needs a washer, there's no need to replace a pair of perfectly broken in skate boots if the blade is the only issue.
How Do I Know When To Sharpen My Skate Blades?
It's a good idea to get in the habit of carefully feeling your skate blade edges for dullness after you dry them before putting them in your bag.
You can also visually see if your edges are uneven if you line up your eye behind the heel and look straight down along the bottom runner of the blade.
By placing a quarter on the bottom of the blade, a trained eye can see if one edge is higher or lower than the other and needs sharpening.
The first thing you'll begin to feel on the ice while skating is that you won't be able to push off or grip the ice as well when the blade starts to dull.
You'll then start to lose your edge while performing crossovers or sharp turns, preventing you from angling closer to the ice.
Staying Sharp
As you can see, there are many things that can dull a skater's blade over time, depending on what their edges are exposed to and the quality of the skate blade.
Record a log of your ice time and the "feel" of your edges so you have a better understanding of when they may need to be sharpened.
A fun mathematical exercise is to track your total ice time hrs. between sharpenings and divide the cost of a single skate blade sharpening by that number.
Here's an example:
16hrs. of total ice time between sharpenings
$12 per sharpening
Cost = $0.75 cents per hour of ice time
Be sure to choose a skate blade that is appropriate for your skill level and take into consideration whether or not you have access to a skate sharpener when needed.
You will find out that over time, properly maintaining your skate edge will help you become a better skater and advance your overall skills.
Skating on synthetic ice has been a fantastic experience for our customers.
With synthetic ice, you can acquire panels cut and designed to your specifications.
That means you can skate almost anywhere and, more importantly, anytime during the year.
Of course, like peanut butter and jelly, synthetic ice won’t work without ice skates.
So it’s about time we answer a question that we get all the time; how do you buy skates for synthetic ice?
We’ve gone to many lengths to ensure that our synthetic ice feels as close to the real thing.
For the uninitiated, synthetic ice are panels made of polyethylene sheets
These tiles were initially introduced for large-scale ice rinks.
Now, you can get custom-made panels that interlock for your home.
PolyGlide’s Synthetic Ice, in particular, has gone through changes to make the skating experience feel like natural ice.
Wherever you decide to set up your rink, you’ll want an excellent skating experience.
These tips for buying your skates will help you make the best out of your ice.
Tips for Buying Ice Skates
Yes, you’ll need your metal skates for your synthetic ice.
If you’re buying your first skates or upgrading some old ones, you’ll need to think about a few things:
What’s your flavor?
The first thing that you should consider is the skate’s primary use.
If you’re starting in ice skating, this means you have to choose between figure skates or ice hockey skates.
These skates differ in style, blades, and fit for the wearer according to their purpose.
Figure skates
Figure skates are generally very flexible to support the wide range of movements (think spinning, gliding, jumping, stretching, and turning).
Figure skates are usually made of leather which gives a tight fit yet allows quick movements.
The blades are also exceptionally sharp.
This quality enables the figure skaters to make quick turns and accurate movements.
They also have toe picks that look like tiny teeth.
This feature allows you to have more control of the skate when you jump or spin.
Ice hockey skates
Ice hockey skates are typically lighter, narrower, and flatter compared to figure skates.
These qualities are necessary so they won’t hurt your game.
Compared to figure skates, hockey skates have a stiffer boot to protect your foot in a high-contact sport like hockey.
The blades of ice hockey skates don’t have toe picks. Instead, they are narrower and rounded at the front and back, making them quite curved.
This curved design gives the player increased speed, agility, and maneuverability.
Recreational skates
Skating is a great hobby and a great way to stay fit! So you may need recreational skates instead.
Recreational ice skates are usually cheaper, with a balance between protection and style.
Most are lightweight with extra ventilation.
These skates are simple, reliable, and last a long time if you’re occasionally skating.
Consider your experience level.
Next is your skill and experience level. Ice skates are also designed to suit your skills.
There are entry-level skates, intermediate and advanced skaters.
So as your level progresses, you’ll realize the need to buy a new one.
Entry-level skates
This type of skates has synthetic outers and linings, a PVC sole, and a basic blade.
It’s best for occasional skating or if you are starting to learn how to skate.
If you wish to try figure skating, entry-level skates may not be able to support your movements.
Intermediate and Advanced
If you’ve progressed to this level already, you may check out the products of some top manufacturers like Bauer, Risport, Riedell, and K2.
These companies have invested in research and development to ensure that their skates will perform as excellently as their wearer.
Recreational skates
Recreational skates are designed for fun and occasional ice skating.
They have a simplified lacing pattern to make it quick and easy for the owner to wear and remove.
These skates work for those who have improved their skills, but it’s not built for jumps and spins.
Know the correct size and fit for you.
Next, think about the size and fit.
Your skates must fit well. If you or your kids hit the ice, you’ll be there for a while.
The last thing you’d want is a pair of skates that are too big, or worse, too small. Poor-fitting skates cause blisters and can make the experience less than desirable.
Unlike conventional shoes, where you have to worry about the length (size) of the shoe, skates have a couple more dimensions to consider:
Your skate size is your starting point. Your shoe size and your skate aren’t the same measurements. Skate sizes are measured about one and a half (1.5) units smaller than regular shoe sizes. So if you wear a size 10, your skate size is 9.5. For kids, it’s one size smaller.
Skates also come with skate width as a measurement. The width helps with a proper fit from the instep. Skate widths come from Narrow To Extra-wide, allowing the skates to stay snug during turns and stops.
Skates also fit by volume. This is the overall shape and cuts of the boot. The volume determines the space you’ll have at the heel and specific performance measures native to that brand. Volume comes in High, Medium, and Low, particularly with hockey skates. These measurements allow skates to be versatile. For instance, you can get a Medium volume skate with a width that’s ‘Extra-wide.’
The skates’ size and fit are necessary for you to have absolute control of the blades, especially if you are a figure skater who jumps and spins.
Finding your true size can be difficult, especially if you’re buying online.
Luckily, you can trace your foot on a sheet of paper to get the right length and width according to the brand’s style guide.
When you do get a pair or get to try them on, loosen the laces or buckles, then push your foot forward, there should be enough space to insert a finger behind your heel.
It is also best to wear the socks you’re planning to use for ice skating when trying on and buying ice skates.
There are ice skates that are already adjustable for kids - allowing parents to lengthen the boot as the kid grows.
Adjustable models can expand to 3 or 4 sizes, which is best and practical if the child is still growing.
Consider how often you’ll use the skates.
If you’re trying out ice skating or might go on the rink just a few times, then you should not invest in an expensive skate. Regular, recreational ones will do.
If you are a professional figure skater or hockey player, then you’ll most likely wear the skates for hours every day.
In this case, you need to invest in a durable, high-performance skate.
Research different brands.
If you’re investing in a skate for long-term, extensive use, make sure to do some research first.
Go through the different brands and study the various models that suit your needs and preferences.
Look for reviews from actual users. You can even ask coaches and other athletes in your sport for recommendations.
Consider renting first.
On the flip side, if you’re trying out ice skating as a new hobby or simply not prepared to spend on skates, think about renting a pair.
Rental skates can help you try out different fits and brands until you reach more advanced levels. Brands like Riedell have a great online rental program.
Skating Tips on Synthetic Ice
When you get your fresh pair of skates, you’ll be eager to hit your synthetic ice rink. Here are some tips to help you get the best out of the experience.
Keep your blades nice and sharp.
Before hitting the ice, have your skate blades sharpened which will do wonders for your performance.
Depending on the intensity of your movements, aim for a specific Radius Of Hollow or ROH.
Ice skate blades have two edges with a curved hollow between them.
The depth of the hollow determines factors like glide and speed.
A ⅝ ROH shallow sharpening helps you specifically with gliding.
However, if you are still losing an edge frequently, you may try a deeper ½” sharpening to keep the hollow longer.
Having a sharpening machine at home is a recommended investment.
Invest in a second pair of skates.
If you switch from synthetic ice to natural ice or vice versa, invest in a second pair of skates dedicated to synthetic ice training.
This will save some time sharpening your skates every time you want (or have) to skate on natural ice.
Having an alternative pair of skates will also lengthen the lifespan of the blades of both.
Heat your blades.
Next is to heat your skate blades.
Set aside at least 2 to 5 minutes to warm up the steel before stepping on any synthetic ice.
Warmed-up steel will have better interaction with the surface and prevent skidding.
This step is also helpful to activate the embedded lubricant.
Clean your synthetic ice
Eventually, your synthetic ice will produce shavings.
The new ridges made from your blades improve the performance of the skates, but excess shavings do the opposite.
For the best experience, clean your synthetic ice panels with warm soapy water with a mop or cloth.
Conclusion
Finding the right skates can make skating on your synthetic ice rink a fantastic experience.
Make sure to focus on fit and get a pair of skates that’s perfect for your skating level.
If you can visit a local shop, test multiple fits.
If that’s not possible, measure your foot at home and make sure there’s a return policy in place.
You’ll love skating on synthetic ice, and it will be even better with the perfect pair of skates.
Family vloggers "April and Davey" have been inviting followers to share in their everyday lives documenting their journey along the way on thier popular YouTube channel. Together with their five children (Zade 12, Daisy10, Ambree 7, Ender 5 & Eb 2) the Lehi, Utah natives have been "keeping it real" in sharing their family life experiences and everyday trials and tribulations.
Backyard Ice Rink Project
In December of 2016 the family decided to start their own backyard ice rink project with some wood framing, tarp and the help of mother nature. Throughout multiple vlogs April and Davey captured the challenges of what it's like to create and maintain a home ice rink including making sure NOT to store the hose outside in the cold weather. The family rink vlog caught the eye of the people at PolyGlide Synthetic Ice who recently reached out to the Orgill family to offer a year-round solution to fullfill their ice skating needs.
Living Room Rink
The family was sent 128 square feet of the PolyGlide Home Ice portable 2ft x 4ft panels which when assembled created a 8ft x 16ft ice rink. Davey Orgill documented the installation which was completed in the family living room in just under an hour prior to the kids returning home from school. Needless to say once the kids returned home from school the look of dismay on their faces was priceless when they gazed their eyes on their new home rink. The afternoon quickly morphed into a family public ice session that included Mom donning her figure skating attire, Ender honing his ice hockey skills and Dad capping-off the day by showing off his "spinderella" break dancing moves.
Check out April and Daveys video link above for a special PolyGlide Ice discount offer. For additional information on Polyglide Ice and how you can "Bring the Rink Home" contact or click here for a quote:
Aerobic exercizes are a vital element of cardiovascular health and an ice skating workout can help meet those needs.
Skating across the ice provides an aerobic workout that is excellent for the body and fun to perform.
The best part about it is that the aerobic aspect just goes with the territory, not being something you focus on, so you get the benefits while scarcely being aware of it.
Particularly by actively swinging the arms and using long strokes, skating is an excellent cardio workout.
For the best cardio workout, maintain at a sustained pace.
As in running or cycling, a consistent workload needs to be kept up for the best results.
Whether you bundle up in winter for a session on a frozen lake or seek out the cool enclosure of an indoor skating rink in summer, an ice skating workout is great for both the body and the mind.
With a little equipment, the proper stretching beforehand, and mindfulness about what you are doing, you can enjoy the benefits of skating with little fear of injury.
Gliding across the ice has many health and fitness elements from which you can benefit.
Build Major Muscle Groups
The core muscles and lower body benefit more than your other muscle groups while skating on ice.
Core muscles such as the pelvic floor muscles, the gluteus maximus, and back muscles, along with lower body muscles such as hamstrings, calves, quadriceps, and hips all increase in mass, toning and strengthening even during a leisurely session of laps around the ice.
Specific health and fitness benefits are attached to many of these muscles being strengthened.
For instance, the aging, as well as childbearing women, often suffer from urinary stress incontinence, which can be lessened or completely eliminated with exercises like skating that improve the muscles of the pelvic floor.
Another example is that many back issues are attributed to weak muscles of the back and legs; skating can resolve these as well.
Strengthening these groups of muscles does more than prevent and solve an array of common health problems.
It also makes everyday tasks easier by increasing your levels of energy.
The improvement of these muscles also makes it easier to perform such activities as squatting, walking, standing, reaching, bending, and twisting.
Even sitting for prolonged periods is made easier by improving the core and leg muscles.
Improve Your Balance
Strengthening your muscles leads to improved balance.
So does the effort of even trying to remain standing upon the ice.
When you learn to engage your muscles in staying standing, you are doing more than toning them; you are also improving your total control over both your endurance and your body.
When actively skating on the ice, you glide about on a pair of thin blades. If you get fancy, you might even be gliding about on just one. This leads to improved ability to balance over time, through consistent practice.
Also interesting is that many adults who begin skating on ice report that the activity aids them in feeling better balanced in their overall lives.
Their claim is that they feel more in control.
They feel better capable at navigating through the challenges of life.
Skating does require a determination and effort to get where you desire by overcoming challenges, so this claim makes sense.
Skating can improve balance, both in mind and body.
Increase Your Joint Flexibility
Skating can be a real solution if you find your leg joints creaking each time you get out of bed every day.
It has an emphasis on strong knees and swift motions of the feet.
This gives the leg joints a great workout; they should be feeling more flexible with repeated practice of the sport.
The synchronized motion of the legs is vital for joint flexibility.
This low-impact exercise improves joint health, strength, flexibility, endurance, and range of motion.
Joints also benefit from the weight loss side of ice skating.
Apart from increasing the risk of diseases, carrying extra weight is difficult on the cartilage cushioning your joints.
Aging and excess weight both have an impact on wearing down this cartilage.
The impact further causes damage to the bones and the joints that they connect. Seeking your ideal weight while skating has multiple positive effects on your body, and skating is a viable option for those who suffer a history of joint pain.
Jump to Aid Bone Density
Bone density experiences a decrease as people age, and more rapidly so in women.
The prevention of bone loss and increase of bone mass is vital for maintaining a good posture, bone strength and the prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis.
While adding calcium and vitamin D to your diet are one way to address this problem, adding jumps into a skating regimen is a fun way to help while exercising.
Even jumps that are little, with low clearance, help.
Evidence shows that activities which place greater stress on the skeleton are good for increasing bone mass.
Ten minutes of jump practice on a daily basis will slowly increase the mass of those bones that are impacted.
Variety is also important in your routine to keep increasing the mass.
Try watching other skaters, video lessons, or taking a class to pick up new moves and ideas.
Keep in mind, however, that jumping makes skating less low-impact as a sport.
Improve Your Stress Management
Generally, working out is a good way for the relief of stress.
Physical activity causes the release of endorphins in the brain. Skating, specifically, has still greater benefits for stress.
It boosts self-confidence and forces you to hone your focus.
Skating requires many new moves, like going backward, doing crossovers, and spinning.
This improved focus is carried off of the ice with you, as is the boost of self-confidence. You can also meet new people or bring friends with you to the rink for social relaxation.
Skating also places you firmly within the moment.
You cannot be focusing on the list of things you have to see to accomplishing; instead, you let your mind pinpoint the immediate process of balancing and awareness of your surroundings.
Skating can be viewed as a type of meditation.
It is a calming period of time as your muscles and joints work and your mind clears.
An hour moving about the ice can refresh you both mentally and emotionally.
Build Mental Fitness
Skating outdoors has a particularly powerful impact on mental fitness.
Fresh air and sunshine, along with the company of friends, family, or simply other friendly people enjoying the ice, help to unwind.
Skating can even be used to solve problems.
Psychologists say that your subconscious mind continues to problem-solve while you sleep, meditate, or exercise.
During an hour moving around the ice, or after an hour of that activity, with cold air swelling your lungs and the muscles burning in your legs, you will feel as though you have taken a break from solving your problems, but the truth is your subconscious mind has been working away while the conscious part of your mind has a necessary break.
Equipment You Will Need
The first piece of equipment is, of course, a pair of ice skates that fit properly.
Rental skates can be a good choice if you are unsure whether or not the activity will suit you.
This is especially true because most rental skates are high in quality and offer an assortment of sizes for you to try on.
Apart from skates, have good gloves to protect your hands not only from the wind and cold but also from falls. Further, dress in warm clothing that enables you to move freely.
A helmet and pads are possible if they let you feel more confident and comfortable.
Conclusion
If you like the idea of training at home, portable synthetic ice panels are now available and can be installed virtually anywhere.
You don’t need a lot of space to work on your edges and get comfortable in your skates.
The more ice time you can make available to yourself will only help you achieve your goals that much quicker.
Whether you're a professional skater or just starting out, incorporating slide board exercises into your training regimen can make a significant impact on your performance.
Master Slide Board Techniques
A slide board isn't exclusive to skaters, though.
This versatile piece of equipment is widely used in various sports for strength, balance, and agility training.
Additionally, it has proven to be beneficial for injury prevention and physical therapy.
With the help of our expert advice, you'll learn to make the most of the slide board and find the tips you need to excel in your skating journey.
Key Takeaways
Slide boards can enhance skating skills through off-ice practice
A versatile training tool, slide boards benefit various sports and physical therapy
The tips provided will help boost your skating performance using a slide board
The key feature of a slide board is its sliding surface, which allows you to replicate the motion of skating without being on the ice.
This sliding surface is usually made from a smooth, low-friction material that enables smooth and swift movements.
When choosing a slide board, it's essential to consider the size.
The size of the board should correspond to your height, skill level, and the space available for practicing.
A standard slide board size typically ranges from 6 to 10 feet in length, with various width options.
As you become more skilled, you may want to opt for a longer slide board to challenge yourself and develop better technique.
One crucial aspect of a slide board is its non-slip bottom.
This feature keeps the board securely in place as you practice your skating moves.
The non-slip bottom is typically made from a high-quality rubber material that grips the floor and prevents the board from moving during your workout.
To effectively use a slide board, follow these tips:
Begin by warming up your muscles with light stretches and exercises. This will prevent injuries and prepare your body for slide board training.
Wear proper footwear, such as slide board booties or socks that are designed for sliding. These will provide a better grip and make your movements more efficient.
Ensure that the surface of the slide board is clean and free from debris to maximize your sliding capabilities.
Maintain proper form when using the slide board. This includes keeping your knees slightly bent, chest up, and eyes forward.
Practice different exercises on the slide board, such as lateral slides, one-leg slides, and forward-to-backward transitions.
By integrating slide board training into your regular workout routine, you can significantly enhance your skating abilities and overall athletic performance.
Remember to use proper form, choose the appropriate size, and always ensure the surface is clean and secure for optimal results.
Importance of Slide Board Training in Skating
A slide board is a valuable tool for skaters looking to develop and enhance vital skills necessary for success on the ice.
By incorporating this equipment into your training regimen, you'll notice improvements in your speed, balance, and flexibility, all of which contribute to a more refined performance.
One major benefit of using a slide board is the ability to strengthen your core and leg muscles.
When skating, these muscle groups are essential for generating power and maintaining stability.
Slide board exercises, like lunges and lateral slides, target these areas, building up endurance and promoting proper posture.
Slide boards also improve your balance and coordination, which are crucial skills for all skaters, from figure skaters to speed skaters.
Gliding on a low-friction surface mimics the sensation of skating on ice, allowing you to refine your movements and reactions.
Regular practice will gradually enhance your weight distribution, resulting in a more confident glide.
Incorporating slide board training into your routine can also enhance your flexibility and range of motion.
Increased flexibility not only improves your overall skating performance but also helps prevent injuries.
Your hips, shoulders, and overall body shape will benefit from regular slide board use, ultimately honing your abilities as an athlete.
Finally, to ensure your body remains in peak condition for high-intensity sessions, a slide board can aid in recovery and muscle maintenance.
So, whether you're an aspiring skater or a professional athlete, incorporating a slide board into your training routine presents a multitude of benefits.
Slide Board Features and Buying Guide
When looking for the perfect slide board to enhance your skating training, there are several key features to consider.
It's crucial to strike a balance between finding an affordable option that still offers the necessary functionality for your workouts.
One of the most important features to consider is the size of the slide board.
Larger boards are ideal for taller individuals or those who need more room to perform broader movements.
On the other hand, a smaller board is suitable for those with limited space or who prefer a more compact training tool.
The quality of the materials used is also crucial.
Look for a slide board constructed with dense rubber or grip-enhancing materials to ensure a secure footing during your exercises.
Bumpers or stops at the end of the board will provide additional safety and help you maintain control during sliding movements.
Slide boards come in handy in various sports, not just skating training.
They can also be used for baseball and basketball workouts to help improve footwork, agility, and balance.
A slide board with removable or adjustable booties allows for a more customized workout experience, easily adapting to different friction requirements based on the intensity of the training.
The buying guide should focus on these key features and prioritize clear, easy-to-understand information to make your decision process smoother.
Additionally, it is essential to compare different slide boards in terms of their materials, size, and versatility to find the one that suits your specific needs.
Remember to keep your budget in mind, as investing in an affordable slide board doesn't always mean sacrificing quality.
Many reliable options on the market offer all the necessary features at a reasonable price point.
By considering all of these factors, you'll be well-equipped to select the perfect slide board for your skating training routines
Incorporating slide board exercises in your fitness routine can help build hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, and offer a full-body workout.
Here are some highly effective exercises with a slide board:
1. Slide Board Lunges
Lunges work on your quadriceps, glutes, and hamstrings, giving your lower body an ideal conditioning workout.
To perform slide board lunges, stand with one foot on the slide board, the other foot off, and dumbbells in each hand.
Slide sideways into a lunge position, keeping your knees in line and core engaged.
Push back to the starting position, relying on the strength of your legs.
2. Slide Board Squats
Squats are excellent for targeting leg muscles and enhancing your strength and conditioning.
Place both feet on the slide board, slightly wider than shoulder-width, and hold a pair of dumbbells at shoulder level.
Slowly slide down into a squat, ensuring that your knees don't extend beyond your toes, and maintaining a 90-degree angle.
Slide back up to the standing position, engaging your legs and glutes.
3. Slide Board Leg Curls
To strengthen your hamstrings, perform slide board leg curls.
Lie down with your back on the floor and place your heels on the slide board.
Engage your core, lift your hips off the ground, and slide your heels towards your glutes.
Release the curl and slide your feet back to their starting point, making sure to keep your hips elevated throughout.
4. Slide Board Mountain Climbers
For an intense full-body workout, try slide board mountain climbers.
Begin in a push-up position, placing your toes on the slide board's non-slip bottom.
Drive your right knee towards your chest as you simultaneously slide the left leg back.
Quickly switch legs, performing the movement with your opposite leg.
Keep your core engaged and maintain a steady pace for maximum conditioning benefits.
By incorporating these slide board exercises into your routine, you can improve your skating training and overall lower body strength and conditioning.
Challenge yourself by adjusting the pace, resistance, or adding dumbbells to optimize your workout.
Applying Slide Board for Other Sports Training
The slide board is not just for skating training; it can also be a valuable tool for conditioning and improving skills in other sports.
By incorporating it into your training routine, you can enhance your overall sports performance and agility.
Football-specific conditioning workouts: Utilize the slide board to develop quick lateral movements and strengthen your lower body. Incorporate exercises like slide board shuffles for increased agility and endurance.
This will help you stay nimble on the field and react quickly to opponents' moves.
Baseball and softball drills and workouts: Hone your fielding skills by setting up a baseball or softball on the slide board and practicing quick side-to-side movements to catch the ball.
This trains your body to react swiftly to fast-moving balls, making you a more formidable player on the field.
Basketball workouts: Improve defensive skills by using the slide board to practice sliding in a defensive stance.
This workout increases lateral speed and helps you stay in front of your opponent while preventing them from getting around you.
Volleyball and lacrosse workouts: Enhance your footwork by doing slide board drills that mirror the movements in your respective sport.
For example, work on your defensive shuffle in lacrosse or practice quick lateral movements for volleyball blocking.
This will allow you to cover more ground on the court or field and become a more effective player.
Wrestling workouts: A slide board can help you build strength and improve your balance, both essential components of wrestling.
Incorporate exercises like slide board pushups and single leg squats to strengthen your upper and lower body, making it harder for your opponents to take you down.
Sports performance training in general: The slide board is a versatile piece of equipment that can be integrated into a variety of sports performance training routines.
Regularly using it in your workouts can improve your agility, balance, coordination, and overall athleticism.
Staying updated with sports news and college recruiting developments will help you stay competitive as an athlete.
Incorporating slide board training alongside sport-specific drills allows you to adapt to various athletic disciplines, thereby increasing your chances of success on the field, court or mat.
Remember, the key to improvement is consistency and dedication to your training regimen.
Slide Board for Injury Prevention and Physical Therapy
It’s essential to use proper technique and form on the slide board to minimize the risk of injuries.
The durable construction of the slide board ensures that it remains a safe and reliable tool for your training.
Incorporating slide board training into your physical therapy can aid in a faster recovery and help you get back to your optimal performance levels.
Using the slide board for exercises like lateral slides and single-leg squats helps to strengthen your hip and leg muscles, improving stability and reducing the chance of falls and injuries.
Regular use of the slide board can also lead to increased flexibility and range of motion.
By engaging your core muscles and focusing on proper movement, you can prevent potential injuries to your lower back and knees.
The low-impact nature of slide board exercises makes it an ideal choice for individuals with joint complications or those returning to sports or fitness regimes post-rehabilitation.
In addition, the slide board can be easily adjusted to your desired level of resistance, ensuring that you can gradually progress at your own pace while avoiding strain and possible injuries.
Remember that proper footwear, such as slide board-specific socks or booties, is essential for both safety and efficiency while using this equipment.
By incorporating the slide board into your regular fitness routine and physical therapy, you can reap the benefits of improved strength, increased flexibility, and fewer injuries. Your body will thank you for it.
Slide Board Use in Different Age Groups
Slide boards offer an excellent way for people of all age groups to improve their skating skills.
Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, using a slide board is a great way to practice and enhance your balance, strength, and agility.
For Kids: Slide boards can be a fun and engaging way for children to learn the basics of skating.
It helps them develop essential skills such as balance, coordination, and body awareness.
Start by choosing a slide board with an adjustable length to accommodate your child's size and skill level.
Encourage them to practice different gliding and sliding exercises to boost their confidence and make the learning process enjoyable.
For Beginners: If you're new to skating, a slide board is an ideal tool to master fundamental techniques.
Start with a moderate length and width and focus on proper stance, posture, and weight distribution.
Practice basic exercises such as lateral slides, crossovers, and single-leg slides.
As you gain experience, you can gradually increase the length and difficulty of the exercises to challenge yourself and enhance your skills.
When using a slide board, it's essential to prioritize safety, especially for kids and beginners.
Wear appropriate gear such as slide board booties and maintain a safe space around the slide board to prevent injuries.
Additionally, always warm up before starting any exercises and cool down afterwards to minimize the risk of muscle strains or sprains.
Regardless of the age or skill level, consistency and practice are key factors in improving one's skating abilities.
Include slide board training in your regular routine and don't be afraid to challenge yourself, and you'll surely see progress over time.
10 Best Tips For Better Skating on Slide Board
To improve your skating skills and have fun, try incorporating a slide board into your training routine.
Using a slide board can boost your speed, agility, core strength, balance, and endurance, ultimately giving you an edge on the ice.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your slide board training:
Warm-up: Like any physical activity, warming up is crucial to prevent injuries and prepare your body for the exercises ahead.
Start with some light aerobic activity, such as jogging or jumping jacks, followed by dynamic stretches focusing on leg and core muscles.
Maintain proper form: While using the slide board, focus on keeping your upper body still, knees slightly bent, and hips level.
Proper form will not only help prevent injuries but also improve your overall performance on the ice.
Progress gradually: Start with short sliding sessions and don't push yourself too hard in the beginning.
As you develop your skills and build endurance, you can gradually increase the duration and intensity of your workouts.
Incorporate core exercises: Slide board workouts can be enhanced by integrating core strengthening exercises.
Doing planks and Russian twists in between slide board sessions helps to develop a strong core, which is essential for maintaining balance and stability on the ice.
Vary your sliding exercises: Change up your routine by including various sliding drills that target different muscle groups.
Speed skater drills, single leg slides, and lateral slides are just a few examples of exercises you can add to your workout, focusing on power, balance, and coordination.
Remember that consistency is key for achieving the best results.
Incorporate these tips into your slide board training routine and watch as your skating skills advance, boosting your confidence and performance on the ice.
Conclusion
Investing in a slide board is an excellent decision for those aiming to refine their skating skills and boost their on-rink confidence.
Key areas to concentrate on include balance, control, and footwork.
To complement this, integrating strength and flexibility routines can lead to a comprehensive development, enhancing overall skating performance.
Consistency in training is vital.
Regular practice coupled with clear goal-setting allows for steady progress and keeps motivation high.
It's also crucial to treat your slide board as a long-term investment; regular maintenance ensures it remains a reliable training tool.
Engaging with experts can offer invaluable insights.
Connecting with professional trainers or seasoned skaters can fine-tune techniques and provide new perspectives.
project with some wood framing, tarp and the help of mother nature. Throughout multiple vlogs April and Davey captured the challenges of what it's like to create and maintain a home ice rink including making sure NOT to store the hose outside in the cold weather. The family rink vlog caught the eye of the people at PolyGlide Synthetic Ice who recently reached out to the Orgill family to offer a year-round solution to fullfill their ice skating needs.
The family was sent 128 square feet of the PolyGlide Home Ice portable 2ft x 4ft panels which when assembled created a 8ft x 16ft ice rink. Davey Orgill documented the installation which was completed in the family living room in just under an hour prior to the kids returning home from school. Needless to say once the kids returned home from school the look of dismay on their faces was priceless when they gazed their eyes on their new home rink. The afternoon quickly morphed into a family public ice session that included Mom donning her figure skating attire, Ender honing his ice hockey skills and Dad capping-off the day by showing off his "spinderella" break dancing moves. 
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