Slide board training has been around for a while yet little has changed throughout the years in the development of this unique training product....until now!

PolyGlide Synthetic Ice has implemented the latest in synthetic ice technology into the development of it's new "Slip Slide Board", an infused synthetic ice slide board that does not require any surface sprays or lubricants to train.

Today's industry "standard" slide board consists of either a roll-up or flat, rigid surface that requires a topical spray lubricant application in order to slide on the board.

By implementing their Pro-Glide infused synthetic ice technology into a slide board, PolyGlide Ice has greatly reduced the surface coefficient of friction and created more of an ice-like feel while training.

Benefits of a Slide Board Workout Program

This little-known piece of exercise equipment can provide a great workout for your whole body and help maintain a high level of fitness to help keep you in shape without ever leaving your home.

There are many different ways you can utilize a slide board to get into shape that does not require a whole lot of space unlike many other exercise machines that can be quite bulky.

Some of the great things about slide boards is that they are quite versatile, portable and easy to store in between your workout programs.

You can use them for a wide variety of exercises, making them a great choice for people who want to mix up their workout routine on a weekly basis and develop different muscle group.

Here are some of the main benefits you can achieve by implementing a slide board workout program into your weekly routine.:

 

Improved Cardiovascular Health

You can utilize the slide board for a low-impact cardio workout to get your blood pumping and enjoy the benefits of optimal cardio health.

This is a great way to get your heart rate up without putting too much strain on your lower joints and quite easy to perform once you get started.

The benefits of cardiovascular optimal cardio health is well documented and can help extend ones life when performed on a regular basis.

Here are a few of the positive results that can be achieved by implementing a regular cardiovascular exercise program into your weekly routine:

Reduce your risk of developing heart disease

• Lower your blood pressure
• Improve your cholesterol levels
• Boost your energy levels
• Improve your mental health and well-being

As you can see, "cardio" is an important part of any workout routine because it has so many benefits for both your body and your mind that can help with your overall fitness.

Not only does cardio help improve your overall health, but it can also help boost your energy levels, improve your mental health, and even help you to better manage stress.

The best part is, there are plenty of ways to fit cardio into your day, whether you’re taking a brisk walk during your lunch break, going for a run after work OR hoping on your slide board, so there’s no excuse not to get started!

It's easy to start a synthetic ice slide board exercise program, all you need is a pair of Slip Socks, flat surface and maybe a little music should you so desire (or a good audio book ;-)

 

Strength Training

Strength training has many special benefits that can help you achieve your fitness goals by working on various muscle groups and now it's easy to add it to your slide board routine.

One of the main benefits of strength training is that it can help you lose weight if you are carrying around extra body fat as it will help you build muscle, which will in turn help you burn more calories.

In addition, strength training can help to improve your bone density and reduce your risk of injuries something that not many people are aware of but is an essential part of fitness.

Strength training has also been proven to improver mental health, build self-esteem and confidence AND lower levels of anxiety and depression by maintaining a regular program.

If you are looking for a way to feel better about yourself, then incorporate a strength-training program into your slide board routine and you will reap all the benefits that this simple exercise board has to offer.

It won't take long to achieve results so the key thing is to get started!

Balance and Coordination

There are many benefits you get from improving your balance and coordination including a better posture, reducing stress on your joints and preventing the risk of falling.

Improving your balance and coordination can also help you move more efficiently as you begin to feel more in control of your body the more you continue to exercise.

This means that you'll be able to save energy and reduce fatigue when participating in activities like walking, running, or playing sports.

If you're looking for a way to improve your overall health and well-being, then consider a slide board workout to improve your balance and coordination.

You may be surprised at how much of a difference it can make in your everyday life in a very short period of time!

 

Before Beginning Your Workout

As with all exercises, it's important to stretch the intended muscle groups before beginning your workout routine because the last thing you want to do is injure yourself.

This is why it is important to properly stretch and warm up before starting your routine and get the most out of your workout.

Stretching

Stretching is important because it helps to lengthen your muscles and tendons which will increase your range of motion prior to working out and will help prevent injuries.

When stretching, be sure to hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds and breathe deeply and slowly while stretching.

Warming-Up

Warming up before you exercise is also crucial as a good warm-up will increase your heart rate and blood flow, which will help to prepare your body for physical activity.

A simple warm-up could involve walking or jogging in place for a few minutes, or in this case a light lateral back-and-forth lateral slide on your synthetic ice slide board.

 

Exercise Options

To help simplify things we listed some of the many popular slide board exercises into three main categories.

You will soon find out that there are virtually endless combinations of these to pick and choose and challenge you to create your own once you get comfortable with your synthetic ice slide board:

• Sprints
• Lunges
• Squats

Sprints

Sprinting slide board exercises is the standard lateral, side-to-side movement that emulates ice skating and incorporates a proper skating stride along with arm swing and positioning.

This movement can be performed using different degrees of knee bend depending on the overall goals of your workout and you can also mix-up the arm swing also if you like (short, long or behind the back)

Performing high-rep sprints will provide an intense cardio work out and get your heart rate up quickly if that's the workout you're looking for.

First, put on your stretchy "Slip Socks" over your shoes or sneakers and get into starting position at one end of the board with the outside part of your foot resting up against the cushioned foot rest.

Keep your feet shoulder length apart and lower yourself slightly with your knees bent and when you're ready, explosively push off the foot rest and glide laterally across the board until you reach the other end.

Make sure to keep your body facing forward and avoid bouncing while you sprint and then sprint back to the starting position.

Continue to repeat this movement for a total of 30 seconds.

Feel free to increase the time as you get more comfortable with the exercise.

Lunges

Slide board lunges are a great way to strengthen your lower body and develop good balance when performed properly.

Start the lunge movement by positioning yourself on the floor with your back to the short side end of the slide board.

Take your intended sliding foot and position it at the end of the board before the foot rest with your other foot firmly on the ground just off the end of the slide board.

From this position, put your hands in a praying stance and slowly slide your rear foot backward while bending your front knee until your rear sliding knee lightly taps the top on the slide board with both knees bent.

Your front leg should be bent with your foot planted firmly on the floor with your upper body upright and your core engaged and once your thigh is parallel to the ground, press back up to the starting position.

That's one rep.

Repeat for desired number of repetitions before switching legs and repeating on the other side.

 

Variation: This exercise can be made more challenging by holding dumbbells in each hand or wearing a weight vest.

Just make sure to start slow and listen to your body and if something doesn't feel right, stop and consult a doctor or certified personal trainer before continuing.

Squats

Single Leg squat exercises on a slide board a quite common and there are multiple variations you can consider for this exercise both with and without weights.

Start the squat movement with both legs shoulder length apart and by positioning yourself parallel with the slide board with one leg firmly on the ground and your sliding leg on the end of the slide board. 

Begin the squat by bending your grounded leg into a squat position while moving your slide leg laterally towards the center of the slide board until your thigh is parallel with the ground

Once your thighs are parallel with the floor, return to the starting positing.

Repeat for desired number of repetitions before switching legs and repeating on the other side.

 

Summary

Now that you know some of the advantages and different ways you utilize a synthetic ice slide board to improve your overall fitness, let's look at how to get started.

First, in starting with the slide board, PolyGlide Ice has designed the first of its kind, synthetic ice "Slip Slide Board" that does not require any surface spray lubricants or enhancers. Simply throw on your Slip Socks and start sliding!

Once you get your slide board, simply set it up in an area where you have plenty of space to move around and start working out by doing some simple exercises until you feel comfortable on the board.

If you're new to slide boarding, it's important to start slow and gradually increase the intensity of your workout and remember to listen to your body and stop if you start to feel pain.

Start by putting together a training program that incorporates a few exercises that you like and continue to add more as you grow stronger on the board.

So get motivated and get your slide board and start exercising!

With a little bit of practice, you'll be slide-boarding like a pro in no time!

 

Keep on Skating! - Jim Loughran

 

 

 

When most people think about exercises that work their lower body, the first thing that comes to mind are heavy lifting squat workouts.

This is for good reason – squat workouts are a great way to develop overall lower body strength and power.

However, there’s another way that can help enhance your squat workouts and that’s by implementing a synthetic ice slide board into your routine.

In this article, we will discuss the advantages of using an infused synthetic ice slide board for squatting, and provide you with some tips on how to get the most out of this exercise.

One of the biggest advantages of using a synthetic ice slide board for squats is that it allows you to isolate each leg independently.

This is important because it means that you can correct any imbalances between your left and right sides, which can help prevent injuries down the road.

Additionally, by working each leg independently, you can also make sure that each side is getting an equal amount of work – something that’s not always easy to do with traditional squats.

 

 

Lateral Squat

Lateral squat workouts on a slide board are a great way to work your lower body and get a cardio workout at the same time.

Here's how to do them:

Start by standing with one foot on and one foot off the end of your slide board with your feet shoulder-width apart.

Bend your "grounded" knee into a squat position while extending your other foot lateraly to the side.

Return your foot as you stand back into an upright position..

Repeat this movement using the other leg.

Continue lateral squats for 30 seconds to one minute, then rest for 30 seconds to one minute before switching legs and completing the entire set.

Lateral squats are a great way to tone your legs, butt, and core muscles while getting your heart rate up! Give them a try today!

 

 

 

Single Leg Squat

If you want to work on your quads, hamstrings, and glutes all at once, the single leg slide board squat is a great move to add to your workout routine.

This exercise is also good for those with limited mobility or knee pain, as it takes pressure off of the joints.

Here's how to do it:

Place one foot on the board and slide it out so that your leg is straight.

Bend your standing leg and lower your body down into a squatting position.

Make sure to keep your chest up and core engaged throughout the movement. Return to the starting position and repeat for desired reps.

Switch legs and repeat on the other side.

If you want to add a challenge to this move, try holding dumbbells in each hand.

You can also place your slide board on an incline by propping it up on a few books or other objects.

Just be sure to adjust the height of the slide board so that it's level with your standing leg.

Doing this exercise on an incline will target your quads more than your hamstrings and glutes.

Whichever variation you choose, make sure to focus on proper form in order to get the most out of the exercise and avoid injury.

Single leg squatting is a great way to work multiple muscle groups at once while keeping impact low, making it a perfect move for those with joint pain or limited mobility.

Give it a try and see how it feels! You may find that it quickly becomes a staple in your workout routine.

 

 

Split Squats

Split squat workouts are a great exercise to improve your balance and coordination.

It can also be performed on a slide board to make it more challenging.

Here is how to do a split squat on a slide board:

Place your left foot on the center of the board and your right foot on the floor behind you.

Lower yourself down into a lunge position, making sure that your knee doesn’t go past your toes.

From here, push off with your right leg and slide yourself backward, keeping your left leg extended in front of you.

As you slide back, bend your knees and lower yourself into a squatting position.

Push off with both legs and slide yourself back to the starting position. Repeat this movement for a total of 12-15 repetitions.

If you’re looking for a challenging workout, try adding a slide board to your split squat routine.

This exercise is sure to test your balance and coordination while also working your legs and glutes.

Give it a try and let us know how it goes!

One variation of the split squat that can be done on a slide board is by holding dumbbells in each hand while performing the exercise.

This will help to increase the intensity of the workout and will target the muscles in the arms and shoulders as well.

Lunge

If you want to work your quads, hamstrings, and glutes all at once, then slide boarding is a great workout for you.

Performing a lunge squat on a slide board will help tone your legs and lift your butt.

Plus, it's a low-impact exercise, so it's easy on your joints.

Here's how to do it: 

First, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart on the slide board.

Place your left foot in the middle of the board and extend your right leg behind you.

Keeping your shoulders square and abs tight, slowly lower yourself into a lunge position.

Make sure that your front knee doesn't go past your toes.

Once you reach the bottom of the lunge, press through your heel to return to the starting position.

Repeat on the other side. 

Implementing lunge squat workouts into your routine is a great way to work your lower body so be sure to add it to your repertoire.

 

 

Goblet Squat Side Lunge

First, slide your slide board out so that it is in the middle of the room.

You can use one or two two dumbbells to hold for this exercise

Place a goblet squat on the slide board and get into a side lunge position with your right leg forward and your left leg back.

Make sure that your feet are shoulder-width apart and that you are holding the dumbbells close to your chest. 

Inhale as you bend your knees and lower yourself down into a squat.

Your right knee should be bent at a 90-degree angle and your left knee should be hovering just above the ground.

Exhale as you stand back up, pushing through your heels to return to the starting position.

Repeat this exercise on the other side.

Remember to keep your core engaged throughout the entire movement.

Slide your slide board leg back to the starting position and repeat the movement for a total of 

This is a great exercise to add to your lower-body routine.

It works your quads, glutes, and hamstrings while also challenging your balance and coordination.

 

Conclusion

The advantage of using our synthetic ice, "SLIP SLIDE BOARD" for squat workouts is that they place less stress on your joints than traditional squats.

This is because there’s no impact when you land – all of the force is absorbed by your muscles.

For people with knee or hip pain, this can make a big difference in terms of comfort and pain levels.

Finally, slide board squats are a great way to mix up your workout routine and keep things interesting.

If you’re getting bored with traditional squats, or you’re looking for a new challenge, slide board squats are a great option.

They’re also a great choice if you’re trying to add some variety to your leg workouts.

If you’re interested in trying slide board squats, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, make sure that you have a good quality slide board – one that’s sturdy and won’t move around when you use it.

Second, start with bodyweight only until you get the hang of the movement.

Once you’re comfortable, you can add weight in the form of dumbbells or a barbell.

And finally, make sure to warm up before you start squatting – this will help prevent injuries.

So there you have it – the advantages of slide board squats.

If you’re looking for a new and challenging way to work your lower body, give them a try!

By the way, slide board training can also help improve your skating!

You won’t be disappointed!

 

 

Ice rinks have been around for over 150 years.

Millions of people continue to enjoy ice skating for winter sports or just plain having fun!

Over the years, the rinks have evolved from large public rinks to versatile, at-home rinks.

Today, more and more people are interested in setting up ice rinks for hockey training, figure skating, or simply as a great form of exercise.

There are three types of rinks you can set up in your home or business space:

• Refrigerated Rinks
• Natural Ice Rinks
• Artificial Ice Rinks

Each has its pros and cons.

But when it comes to a “greener approach,” which one is better for the environment?

Everyone wants the world to be a cleaner, better place.

That won’t come from sweeping changes but the little things we do every day, from how we consume energy to the materials we use in our daily lives. 

Something as simple as choosing the suitable rink for the environment can improve your carbon footprint, save you energy and time.

If you’re about to set up an ice rink or you want to set one up during the following winter, here’s the impact it will have from a “green” standpoint.

 

 

Natural Ice Rink

The first ice rinks were frozen lakes and ponds.

At a specific temperature, the pool of water freezes and is safe for skating.

That concept translated to at-home skating rinks, which became popular in Canada and Europe, eventually translating to northern parts of the United States.

During the winter, you could fill a space with water and let the weather do its job. 

Creating an ice rink takes just a few simple steps.

You’ll need a level backyard or large space.

From there, you’ll need strong plywood boards to create the walls of the rink and a tarp for the water.

When everything is set, the area is filled with water until it’s ready.

You would, of course, need to time this with the weather, namely the first sign of freezing (the first freeze).

When the water freezes, you smooth off the top with water, and you’re ready for skating.

Natural ice rinks have the advantage of getting natural ice, of almost any size, at a relatively low cost.

However, the ice lasts as long as the temperature stays consistent. 

Your Natural Rink and an Environmental Footprint

Are natural rinks better for the environment?

Natural rinks use no electricity, except lighting for late-night skating.

Natural rinks may impact the environment or may not be a “green” approach by its water usage. 

Filling a standard size ice rink can take up to 10,000 gallons of water, increasing the size of the rink.

You’ll need more warm water over the months to resurface your rink if rain or snow settles on top.

For that period, the cost of the rink feels like the cost of the water bill.

But since clean water is a finite and scarce resource, it can be costly for the environment. 

When deciding on your natural rink, take this into account. Is there any way you can save water?

Can you store up water naturally over the hot months to use at the end of the year?

Can we use recycled wood or sustainably sourced materials instead?

Natural rinks are excellent, and we’ve set up our fair share over the years.

When we find eco-friendly alternatives, we’ll be doing our part for the environment.

 

What’s a Refrigerated Rink?

Between 1882 and 1892, the first recorded refrigerated rinks were constructed in Germany.

As the name suggests, the rinks use refrigeration to keep the water at a consistent temperature.

Refrigerated rinks make up most community rinks, private rinks, and public rinks that pop up during the Holidays.

Because of the advancement in refrigeration technology, you can even install a small rink in your home or small business. 

Like the natural rink, you’ll have to set up an ample space for your ice rink, complete with watertight walls and a lining. Instead of water, you’ll first need ice rink mats.

These mats contain narrow pipes that will carry the coolant (glycol, brine, or ammonia, for instance) to and from a chiller and compressor.

The refrigeration machine keeps the water at a consistent temperature, constantly removing heat from the surface.

Once everything is in place and the coolant is at the right temperate, water is added to the top to make the ice. 

Refrigerated ice rinks are fantastic for large families, communities or neighborhoods.

Everyone can come together and skate on natural ice.

It will also last a month or two longer than a natural rink.

While there are many moving parts, anyone who has a refrigerated rink says it’s worth the effort. 

Refrigerated Rink and Your Energy Footprint

These rinks have incredible benefits, but from an environmentally conscious standpoint, there are some drawbacks.

Energy consumption is the biggest red flag.

Over the years, refrigerated ice companies have made massive strides in energy-efficient systems.

However, there is still a significant amount needed to keep the rink operational.

Some use 100 amps per 2000 sq ft, which can add up over time.

You’ll also need more gallons of water and regular maintenance.

Like your refrigerator, you’ll need to decide if to keep the chiller on when it is not in use.

When you’re setting up the rink, make sure to keep energy consumption in mind.

Speak with the supplier about your concerns.

A simple way to protect the environment is to opt for a glycol coolant instead of ammonia, as ammonia can be toxic if leaked. 

 

 

All About Your Artificial Ice Rink

Both natural and refrigerated rinks have pros and cons.

A common thread is that both allow you to skate on natural ice.

However, you don’t need natural ice for skating, especially at home.

With artificial ice, you get all the advantages of skating with none of the hassles. 

Artifical ice panels are made from a special infused polyethylene polymer that can be used for skating.

We can trace the first artificial ice panels to more than 30 years ago.

Today, the technology behind artificial ice makes it close to the real thing.

On the best synthetic ice, most skaters should feel a 10% coefficient of friction.

Athletes actually enjoy the added friction for training as it makes them faster and stronger when it’s time to compete on natural ice. 

The biggest appeal to artificial ice comes from its versatility.

You can have the tiles cut to almost any size, and they can interlock like puzzle pieces, making them easy to move and store.

It’s more accessible, and of course, since it’s not natural ice, you can use it at any time during the year.

While it’s not entirely natural ice, you barely feel the difference, especially if you take good care of it.

The Synthetic Ice Solution

Today, many synthetic ice panels, like ours, are made with non-toxic, environmentally friendly materials AND ARE RECYCABLE!

More importantly, an artificial ice rink lasts at least ten years with the proper care. In the long run, you’ll save significant energy and water.

Imagine the expense and carbon footprint of running a refrigerated ice rink for ten years when you only have to purchase your synthetic tiles once. 

That does not mean there are no drawbacks.

Synthetic ice tiles made with harmful chemicals and materials do exist.

Make sure to research the provider and ask about environmentally friendly panels and accessories like resurfacing liquids. 

Conclusion

There are pros and cons to each selection.

Natural ice rinks can use a significant amount of water which is then disposed of at the end of winter.

Refrigerated rinks use water, energy, and potentially harmful chemicals as coolants, while some synthetic ice tiles can have toxic materials. 

In the end, choose the one that has the least amount of impact on the environment.

If there are ways you can minimize your carbon footprint, don’t hesitate to ask!

Synthetic ice tiles are the best choice if you only need a small rink (for instance, a driveway, spare room, or deck).

For a larger space, natural ice rinks hold the advantage but remember their limitations.

Synthetic ice panels also come in panels large enough to cover massive areas, so you can consider those as an option as well.

At Polyglide Ice, we’re committed to providing non-toxic, environmentally friendly tiles, training aids, and accessories.

We construct our panels with the highest degree of quality, giving you a long-lasting, smooth skating experience.

CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO DEMO: https://youtu.be/gRxfNcntwU4

PolyGlide Ice provides the ultimate advantage in your quest to save energy, water and be “green” for a brighter, healthier planet!. 

Keep on Skating!! - Jim Loughran

 

 

Ice skating is a fun and enjoyable winter activity, but it is important to take care of your ice skate blades in order to ensure that you have the best possible experience every time you hit the ice.

If you're like most ice skaters, you want your skate blades to stay sharp throughout the year with limited signs of wear on the blade profile or boot.

Dull blades can impact your overall performance and to a certain degree actually be dangerous.

This is why we would like to highlight some good practices and habits that you should use to make sure your ice skates stay in the best shape all year long! 

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While You're At It, Try Our At Home Synthetic Ice And Get In Your Edge Work!

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 In this article post, we will discuss the seven best ways that you can protect your ice skate blades throughout the season which can kind of serve as your checklist and become part of you regular "preventive maintenance program".

A little bit of preventative care now will save you from having expensive repairs down the road!

But first:

Disclaimer

Ice skate blades are razor sharp and should only be handled and maintained by a qualified adult that is schooled in blade maintenance. Children or inexperienced adults should NOT be relied on to  perform any type of skate blade maintenance as they could be seriously injured if the skates are not properly handled. 

Understanding Your Edges

For any skater, having a properly maintained skate blade edge is critical for them to perform at a high level and grip the ice.

Skate blade edges are impacted with every skating maneuver and are ever so slightly worn down with every inside and outside movement during workouts and skating elements.

This is important to keep in mind in when training and working on different drills as you get to understand how each movement directly impacts your edges.

Edges that are frequently worn on the same side can sometimes bring to light a skating flaw, bad habit or weakness that needs to be addressed or worked on.

So make it a point to "Read Your Edges" and get to know them a little better as probably the most important gear in your bag!

Skate Blade Maintenance

Skate Guards 

The name says it all as the purpose of your Skate Guards are to protect your skates blades from damage while walking.

Skate guards are in no way a permanent cover to be used while storing your skates (we'll get into that later).

Think of your skate guards as "foot / travel guards" to help you get from "Point A" (the ice) to "Point B" (your skate, hockey bag or home storage).

Storing your skates with the skate guards on will trap moisture which will damage and rust the blade over time.

Be sure to check your skate guards from time to time and replace them if they show any signs of wear or cracking.

Dryness

One way to protect your ice skate blades is to always dry them off after skating as this will help prevent rust and corrosion from setting in.

Simply take a dry rag or microfiber cloth and carefully wipe down the blade until it's completely dry.

If by chance you don't have a rag or cloth simply use a paper towel or keep and extra pair of socks in your bag to wipe down your blades.

Remember, metal blades will corrode at a high rate if exposed to humid conditions for a prolonged period of time so this is a very critical first step in properly maintaining your blades.

 

Skate Inspection

This is now the perfect time to inspect your ice skate blades after they have been completely dried-off.

First examine both the inside and outside edges to make sure that the blades are not chipped or damaged in any way.

If you notice any such damage, you will need to get your ice skate blades professionally sharpened before hitting the ice again.

The next thing you will need to check your edges to make sure they are level and don't favor one side or the other.

This can vary after every time you skate depending on what type of drills or skills you were working on or what skating habits you have developed, good or bad.

For instance, if you favor turning or stopping towards the right then your left inside edge and right outside edge may wear quicker each time you practice.

If you want to check your blades with the naked eye it's quite hard though laying a flat coin across the edges can help train your eyes until you get good at it.

Investing in an edge checker and keeping it in your bag is a great way to insure you stay on top of your edges (pun intended) after every workout.

Hand Stone 

Think of your ice skate blades as an expensive pair of knives, (which is really what they are) and running a hand stone across the flat side of your ice skate blades will help remove any unwanted burrs or small nicks.

Typically, after every sharpening your skate technician will perform this procedure once the skate is removed from the sharpener.

In the meantime, keep a stone in your bag as it's also a good habit to get into between sharpenings as this will not in any way dull your blades and only help hold your edge that much longer.

Once you've honed your edges be sure to wipe them down once again to remove any debris from the hand stone.

Blade Wax & Conditioner

Skate sharpening wax or blade conditioner adds another layer of protection by coating your blades with oil agents that will help prevent rust.

Simply apply a thin coat to both of your skate blades before preparing your skates for storage.

These are all good habits that will help you better understand the importance of blade maintenance and if done properly on a regular basis will in the end help the skaters overall performance.

Your ice skate blades don't have to wait to reach the technician to be shown a little "love" in between sharpening's.

Think of the Skater, Athlete or Parent as the "Skate Keeper" in between games or performances and you'll be sure to get the most out of every pair of blades.

Storage

Before placing your skates in your bag for travel be sure to wrap them in a Terry Cloth sport towel to keep them dry until you get them home.

Once home, take them out of the bag and into open air to help thoroughly dry them out.

Skate wall hangers or hooks are relatively inexpensive and work great in helping you air out your skates.

Be sure to pull back the skate tongue far enough to help air flow into the boot while in storage.

You can also help speed-up the process with a hair dryer or dryer rack if you're between games or events and don't like the feel of lacing-up into a damp pair of skates.

Sharpening

Now it's time for maintenance and to get your skate blades sharpened and if by now you don't have a favorite skate tech to rely on ask around to see who your friends or teammates may be using.

Skaters and hockey players are always very particular and superstitious when it comes to who handles their skates for sharpening and profiling.

Everyone is different and has their own personal preferences and opinions when it comes to sharpening their ice skates.

This goes to show you just how much of an important aspect of your game or performance your skates provide.

 

 

Some skaters love an extra sharp pair of skates while others can go weeks on a dull pair and are totally happy.

It's important for each skater to communicate their preferences to the skate tech and develop that relationship of trust that they will provide a well profiled, sharp skate with each pass of the grinder!

Click here to sharpen your own skates: SPARX SKATE SHARPENER

 

Side Note: Synthetic Ice Skate Blade Tip

Here's just a quick tip we have received from customer feedback over the years with regards to the skate blade "hollow" preference for when you plan on skating on synthetic ice.

For those who don't know, the skate blade "Hollow" is the cavity at the bottom of your skate blade between the outside and inside edges on both blades.

Most techs provide a rounded-out hollow cut while others go with the "Flat Bottom V" method depending on the skater's preference.

Many skaters with the rounded hollow have shown a preference for a deeper hollow when skating on synthetic ice that seems to hold their edges a little longer between sharpenings.

For example, if you currently skate with a 1/2" hollow on your blade you may want to opt for a deeper 3/8" hollow if you own or will be skating on a synthetic ice surface.

If this is the case we recommend keeping a separate set of skates for your synthetic ice training and keeping your "gamers" or "performance" set ready for natural ice.

Conclusion

When it comes to ice skating, having well-maintained blades is key to maximizing your potential with well kept gear.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, getting in the habit of taking proper care of your ice skates is vital in making sure you get the results you deserve from all the hard work and training you do in becoming a better skater or athlete.

Performing on ice skates as an Skater or Hockey Player requires a high level of skill developed through many years of practice and it's imperative that your skates are always up to the challenge!

We briefly reviewed these 7 steps throughout this article and recommend that you take the time to continue researching each step to become the ideal "Skate-Keeper" we know you can be!

Keep on Skating!!

 

 

Ice skating and all it's sports (hockey, figure skating, curling) are popular in Canada and the northernmost states in the US.

However, as we head south, ice sports are less accessible.

Local ice arenas are few and far between, and backyard ice rinks are pretty much nonexistent.

But now, we're happy to report, the days when ice skating was only available to the masses throughout the winter months has come to an end.

Thanks to advancements in synthetic ice plastics, skaters of all ages and levels can practice and play at their own leisure....in any region, warm or cold.

The King In The North

The local ice arena was typically the only option for anyone that wanted a leisurely skate at a moment’s notice.

Years ago, you needed to live in the Northern Hemisphere and wait for the pond to freeze over with each passing winter.

Yes, in Canada, ice skating - and snow sports, in general - is king.

Finding a space to skate is easy at almost any time of the year.

There are a few reasons why.

An Ice Skating Climate

Climate is the first obvious reason.

Canada is notably colder and has longer winters.

Yes, officially the winter season starts mid-December until mid-March.

However, Canadians start to experience freezing temperatures as early as October and as late as April.

As you head further North, cold temperatures can last even longer.

That means Canadians have the perfect climate for frozen ponds, backyard rinks, and everything in between.

 

The Origins of Rinks (and Ice Hockey)

We have Canada to thank for the original concept of an ice rink.

The earliest introduction of ice skating in the Northern Hemisphere came in the 1800s.

From there, the first outdoor rink in a defined space appeared in Montreal in 1850.

Some 12 years later, Canada created the first-ever indoor rink, the Victoria Skating Rink.

Soon, the first indoor hockey game was a nine-on-nine game with a wooden disc.

These events led to a groundswell of rinks, skating, and all things ice, which quickly spread to the United States.

While field hockey has been around hundreds of years before, they were willing to push the bar, responsible for many of the rules and leagues popular today.

 

A Skating Culture

Ice skating is embedded in the very fabric of Canada.

Hockey is their national winter sport.

Canada also has over 7800 ice rinks, by far the most in any country.

Some of the most famous ice skaters, hockey players, and curling teams are from up North.

Canadians are protective and fanatic about their winter sports, leading to fierce rivalries with opponents like the USA and other Nations.

You can’t help but marvel at their devotion to sport, especially around Christmas time.

Skating in Canada has no doubt impacted the USA over the decades.

As we cross the border, there's lots of skating activity in states with particularly long, cold winters.

Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin come to mind.

However, that does not mean that more populated states like Michigan, Massachusetts, and New York lack a skating culture.

It is alive and well.

In fact, some of the most successful hockey teams and figure skaters come from urban cities and states.

However, more and more skaters that want to pursue the sport full-time find themselves moving to spaces and countries that can better facilitate their progress.

The Benefits of Ice Skating

So what’s the big deal about skating?

And why do we love it so much?

There’s an exhilarating feeling you get from lacing up those skates and gliding across the ice, for starters.

The speed feels fantastic.

And the creativity you develop with skating is invaluable.

It’s a way to release your stress, calm your mind and enjoy the movement.

Or it’s a way to focus your mind and get an edge on your competition.

It’s a Great Workout.

Ice skating is a great form of exercise.

The stress relief comes from endorphins that we release from physical activity.

But we also burn calories.

An hour of ice skating can burn up to 650 calories.

For kids with fast metabolisms, this may not matter.

For adults looking to stay in shape, it’s a fun way to shed those extra pounds.

Balance and Coordination

Falling is a part of ice skating, but not for long.

The more you practice, the better and stronger you get.

Ice skating targets your lower body, helping you build those hamstrings, quads, and glutes.

The strength and power translate to better balance and coordination.

Both on the ice and off it.

Kids and Sports

Tens of thousands of kids compete in ice hockey or enjoy figure skating.

It’s a great sport to start if you have access to a rink or it’s colder in your neck of the woods.

But that does not mean your kids can’t enjoy it if you live further south.

You can start teaching your kids to skate as early as five years old, then see which level or sport they gravitate to most.

Build Your Community

Once you start to skate, you’ll find other skaters and create your own skating network.

It could be as simple as your neighbors coming over to try an outdoor rink or a neighborhood hockey tournament at a local rink.

The skating community is close-knit, helping each other to become better ice skaters, figure skaters, and hockey players.

How the Warm Climate States Can Ice Skate

As we head south, the weather heats up, and the ice melts.

The winter months are shorter, especially on the West coast.

There are fewer opportunities to ice skate as there are fewer available rinks.

This interesting graph shows how Southern states like Kansas, Arkansas, Georgia, and Louisiana, have less than five ice rinks.

 

 

Compared to the millions of people in each state, they won’t be able to meet any growing demands.

It is understandable.

Indoor ice rinks take hundreds of thousands of dollars to develop and are expensive to maintain.

Decision-makers and business owners will want a return on investment, but they may be missing the bigger picture.

There are skaters in these states with no facilities!

So how do we resolve this problem that continues to get worse?

Ice Developments

People wonder why winter sports like Ice Hockey, Figure Skating and Curling become so popular every four years during the Olympic Games.

The reason I would say is partly that to grow the game, you need the ice that comes with it, and to make it yourself would cost a LOT of money.

Until now.

The Introduction of Synthetic Ice

Times have certainly changed with the development of new synthetic ice plastics that are portable and easy to assemble to create your own artificial ice rink virtually anywhere.

Over the years, the polymer industry has made huge strides in creating hardened plastics that have changed the way we live.

Plastics manufactured today are durable enough for knee and hip replacements.

They are also resistant enough to handle the wear and tear of ice skating on a flat sheet….and yes, to top it off these plastics are.....RECYCABLE!!!

Today there are hundreds of synthetic ice rinks large and small across the country that require zero energy to operate.

The advancement of the polyethylene material and the technology behind it allow manufacturers to profile the panels to interlock seamlessly.

Now, you can have a miniature-sized rink in your garage, spare room, or driveway.

If that’s not big enough, you can install a large backyard synthetic ice rink.

The big difference between today's synthetic ice plastics and those from the early days is what actually makes the surface slippery.

In the early days, most surfaces were simply a large white cutting board with oils applied (yes, I said oils) to make it slippery enough to skate on.

That would be ideal today if you wanted to slice up a nice salad with your skates, but it probably wouldn’t be the best option for ice skating.

Today’s newer polymer plastics have become denser and abrasive-resistant, while surface glide enhancers designed just for synthetic ice have also developed along the way.

Slippery Solutions

The biggest development has been in the manufacturing process, where plastic ice is now being designed solely for the purpose of ice skating.

The introduction of “slip agents” during manufacturing actually makes the plastic slippery enough not to require surface enhancers.

Without getting too technical, this development creates way less surface friction and makes it feel like you’re on natural ice and the overall experience much more pleasurable.

It also creates more options for those who have always wanted to try ice skating, but it was never an option.

 

Other Benefits of Synthetic Ice

Enjoying the benefits of ice skating in a warmer state is just the start.

There are other benefits of going synthetic.

• Ice Skate 24/7 -  Backyard ice rinks and frozen ponds need freezing temperatures.Once the ice melts, so do the rinks.
• Extra Practice - With synthetic ice, you can practice figure skating or hockey throughout the year to gain an edge on the competition.
• Easy Installation - It's also relatively easy to install and maintain. Large synthetic ice rinks need just a couple of hours to set up. In-home kits only need a few minutes.
• Long Lifespan - On average, synthetic ice rinks can easily last 10+ years with careful maintenance and cleanings.
• Positive Friction - The surface does have slightly more friction than natural ice which makes it the perfect "ice simulator" for those looking to become stronger skaters and athletes.
• Cost Savings - Best of all, synthetic ice rinks cost less over time. It’s one initial investment that keeps on giving for years. With ice rinks, you’ll need to rebuild every year, expending time and resources. Refrigerated rinks can also be built at home however, the compressors and refrigeration system can cost thousands of dollars. Even then, it can only be used for 1-2 months outside of winter.

Setting Up Your Ice Rink in the South

When you’re ready to set up your rink, you just need to follow a few steps:

• Rink Location - Is it your backyard? Deck? Garage? The site determines how many panels you’ll need and other equipment like dasher boards, lights, etc.
• Measure - You don’t want to have a rough estimate and have to repurchase more ice panels. Most companies have standard dimensions for their ice. For instance, our PolyGlide Ice Starter Kit comes with 4 - 1/4" X 24" X 48" tiles, measuring 32 square feet. Our larger infused Pro-Glide panels can be as much as 1/2" thick X 46" X 92. Once you calculate your area, you’ll know exactly how many tiles or panels you’ll need for a rink.
• Flatness - An uneven ground leads to an uneven skate. If the ground is uneven, simply create a pressure treated box frame with OSB plywood (shed deck) and install your synthteic ice on top.
• Installation - Place your tiles in your designated space. A heavy rubber mallet (ideally 2lbs.) is all you need to connect the interlocking dovetailed connections.

And that’s it!

Larger panels are heavy and must be freight shipped to you so you’ll need some friends to help you install your rink, otherwise, it’s a simple installation process.

Conclusion

Growing up, I always remembered looking through the old NHL team Media  Guides at some of my favorite hockey players, and at the bottom of the page where it said “Birthplace,” they all said “CANADA.”

Times have certainly changed over the years as the sport of hockey and figure skating continues to grow in the South and warmer climate areas.

With the introduction of these new synthetic ice surfaces, backyard rinks can be set up year-round, allowing more great skaters and players to hone their skills.

You no longer have to head up north to enjoy the ice or spend hours commuting to the only rink in the state.

Synthetic ice brings ice skating right to our doorstep.

With the development of synthetic ice plastics, you can look for these sports to continue growing and developing more players and skaters that may come from some of the most unrecognizable zip codes.