Info & Tips

The need to express oneself starts from a very young age.

For figure skaters, having a home rink allows them to bring that expression to the ice.

From ages 3-6, kids are at their maximum curiosity and creativity.

This is usually the age when parents get their kids involved in extracurricular activities like art and sports.

Ice sports have been a go-to activity for kids as it helps them get the best of both worlds.

Some of the best ice skaters in the world started from a very young age.

For instance, 5-time World Champion and 2-time Olympic medalist Michelle Kwan started skating at 5 years old.

Just a few years later, she started taking it seriously.

The challenge with ice skating is consistent access to a rink.







Kids want to skate as often as possible but getting to rinks to practice routines can be difficult.

In this article, we will cover how kids can practice and express themselves at home with a synthetic ice home rink.

If you’re ready for your kids to start skating, read ahead.

Skating can start at almost any age with kids 10 and above picking up the sport too!

We’ll also mention young Kendal (photo above), a figure skater who found great joy practicing at home with synthetic ice tiles.

 

Types of Skating Drills

You’ll likely enroll your child in hockey, figure skating, or ice dancing.

Hockey and figure skating are the most popular disciplines.

Hockey is self-explanatory.

Kids work in team settings using their stick and skating skills to put the puck in the back of the net.

Figure skating, on the other hand, helps kids express themselves by learning twists, jumps, spins, and other freestyle moves.

Kids can also figure skate in pairs or groups, bringing another element of creativity into the mix.

Ice dancing is another way for kids to express themselves.

It’s highly influenced by ballroom dancing, with a couple performing similar moves on the ice.

Ice dancing may seem like paired figure skating but there are no overhead lifts and throws.

It’s all about dancing, choreography, and grace.

Whichever one you choose, there’s an opportunity for your child to learn fantastic moves and put them together with a coach either in a short or freestyle setting.

Kendal learned some of her favorite moves at a young age.

At 11, she now puts them together in routines to compete every year.

Developing Skating Routines

All ice skating disciplines have one thing in common.

Both require an iron-clad routine for success.

Figure skaters and Ice Dancers like Kendal work hard to develop their own routine outside of the physical commitments of getting all the jumps and moves down.

The power and energy of expression cannot be underestimated especially when trying to win over the judges during a competition.

The training along the way can be intense as most people do not clearly realize just how much work goes into these routines.

Some kids go as far as developing their own routines.

It’s fun to see their minds at work combining the moves they learned to their favorite piece of music.

With developing a routine, you add movies that flow well with the crescendos or changes to the beat.

On an ice rink, they can find a starting spot, then connect whatever moves they’ve learned to the music.

Ice dancing is a bit more structured, as they will follow the instructions of a coach while moving with a partner.

But that does not mean they can’t have some fun between their sessions, expressing themselves with some fun moves.

Expressing themselves or developing one routine on the ice is just the start.

If they want to get better and more competitive, they’re going to have to keep practicing.

Check out this video posted by Rebecca Duerrwaechter after her PolyGlide Ice Instagram win!

 

The Power Of Practice

The late Kobe Bryant would spend hours in the gym working on his shot.

He would get up before 5 am and practice at different intervals throughout the day, getting himself ready for game night.

On some nights, he was unstoppable.

His philosophy was that when everyone else was relaxing, he would be out working them, so no matter what they did in the gym, they would never catch up to him.

Many may consider Bryant an outlier, but it shows the power of practice.

The process made him better and better.

He was more confident on the court and willing to express himself and take risks.

Parents who encourage their children to practice will notice that their kids will soon look forward to it.

They will integrate it into their everyday lives.

They will be brave enough to express themselves through their art wherever they go.

It will even help them academically.

Young Kendal would practice her axles on the rink but she’ll also do them walking along a road in Shaker Village

https://www.instagram.com/p/CaCy5yOlQB2/

Practice breeds confidence!

How a Synthetic Ice Home Rink Can Help

One drawback with ice sports is the need to be at the ice to get some real reps in.

Now, the Ice Arena is no longer the only place where a skater can work on their creative talents while broadening their horizons and not wasting precious ice time in the process.

Skaters can now utilize their own home environment on as little as 32 square feet of space while wearing their skates......just like a batter warming up before heading to the plate!

Having that little extra time to get it right can sometimes help make the difference between taking home the trophy or not even placing.

So are you bringing 32 square feet of frozen ice into the home?

Of course, not (unless you find some way of doing that. If you do, let’s talk!).

What you can do is get 32 square feet of synthetic ice for your budding skater.

Synthetic ice is a special tile made of durable polyethylene.

It’s often infused with a special compound that allows skaters to use their actual metal blades to practice or skate for fun.

The tiles have grooves on each end that help them connect like puzzle pieces.

The result is a space where skaters like Kendal can get their reps in.

Synthetic ice has been around for decades, mainly for commercial rinks.

Now, products like our Starter Kits allow rinks to come home.

You can set them up in just a few minutes, connecting the 4 tiles with a soft mallet to form a 32 square foot space.

Once it’s ready, all your kids need to do it lace up those skates and they can take turns practicing their favorite moves.

 

Synthetic Ice Benefits

Synthetic ice is quickly becoming a go-to training tool for young skaters.

The more you use it, the more you find value in the product.

Some added benefits include:

Skate Anywhere You Find Space

Do you have 32 square feet of unused space lying around?

Then you have a home rink!

You can set it up almost anywhere that has a flat surface.

If there’s a spare room, garage, hallway, or driveway available, then you can have a rink.

Make sure the surface is level to have the best skating experience possible.

If the area is not level, set down some plywood first.

 

Scale It Up Or Down

If you have more space, why not scale it up!

A starter kit provides 32 square feet, but you can easily go to 64, 96, or more.

When you need to get back a bit of real estate, you can remove tiles as needed.

If the space and budget allow, your budding skater will be able to try more moves and have a more enjoyable skate.

 

Kid-Friendly Rink Time

A big drawback with rinks is that your young kids will be sharing them with older kids.

While it’s great to interact with older kids, some parents want a space that’s safe for their kids.

A home rink is a private space where they can practice without the risk of collisions.

Parents also save valuable time with scheduling and driving to the rink.

 

A Little Positive Resistance

An experienced skater will notice that synthetic does not quite feel like real ice.

That subtle difference is called the coefficient of friction.

Friction is necessary for skating.

On natural ice, the friction from the skates helps them glide on the thin film of water on the ice.

Since synthetic ice does not have this thin film of water, the friction will be a bit higher.

The best synthetic ice has about 10% more friction than natural ice.

This friction is not necessarily a terrible thing.

It helps skaters to be stronger and faster.

A similar comparison is athletes using resistance bands to help with explosiveness.

When your young skater gets on the ice to perform their routines, they will perform better.

 

Skate All Year

The more you skate, the better you get at skating.

A common issue with ice skating is that it’s often considered a seasonal sport.

Unless you have access to a rink all year, most people skate during the winter.

A home rink means you can skate all year.

Kids can build the habit of practicing, giving them a significant advantage when it’s time to compete.

It Works For Hockey To!

You can use your home rink for different skating disciplines.

If you have a figure skater and a hockey player in the house, they can both use synthetic ice.

A hockey player can practice stick drills, shooting drills, or hockey stops.

In a world where the emphasis always seems to be "bigger is better" quite the opposite can be true when working on the mental aspect of preparing for an ice competition.

Skaters building their routines have already choreographed and timed their performance to music and can build on that using very little space as in their mind they can see it perfectly.

Being on skates only helps enhance the skaters experience and with the use of portable (infused) synthetic ice panels this is now a reality!

 

Tips For Training On Synthetic Ice

Chances are your young one would have a skating coach to teach the fundamentals of their sport.

The more they engage with their coach, the more they will learn.

If you have decided on a home rink, your child will be skating without a coach or access to a commercial rink.

For the best experience, you’ll need to take some extra steps:

 

Keep the Synthetic Ice Clean

The metal blades create small shavings at it cuts the synthetic ice panels.

These cuts aren’t a bad thing as it improves the performance of the tiles.

However, you must remove the shavings for a better skating experience.

Inspect the tiles for excess shavings before use.

Remove the shavings with a soft mop, broom, or microfiber cloth.

 

Resurface If Necessary

Ice can come in two forms: infused or non-infused.

Synthetic ice uses a special slip surface agent to help skaters achieve a smooth skate.

Infused products mean this agent is already baked into the product.

You just need to put on your skates and go!

Non-infused rinks on the other hand need a liquid conditioner applied before use.

For both non-infused and infused rinks, have your child do a test skate.

If it is difficult to skate, then you’ll need to reapply the conditioner.

Mix the conditioner with water and lightly mist it on the tiles with a spray bottle.

 

Set-Up Your Rink In Different Shapes

Synthetic ice is versatile, even with 32 square foot tiles.

You can arrange the tiles in different shapes for different training purposes.

For instance, you would want a square rink for practicing spins and twists.

But you can also arrange the tiles in a line to work on speed drills.

Alternate between different shapes to get more out of each session.

 

Don’t Forget To Stretch

Stretching may feel unnecessary for kids but it is an important part of all performance.

It helps improve their flexibility and reduces the chances of injury.

It also helps to start stretching at an early age.

It will make more advanced moves accessible if there is a foundation of flexibility.

Stretching is how skaters like

Kendal can accomplish the Beillmann Pose, which will translate into the Biellmann spin in the future.

Spend Time Freestyling

Remember that skating is all about fun!

Don’t stick to the routine.

Allow at least 1-2 home sessions for your young skater to skate independently.

Let them freestyle and experiment with different moves.

It builds up their confidence and resilience.

 

Make Sure They Get Lots Of Rest

What does resting have to do with home rinks?

Shouldn’t your child be on the rink as much as possible?

The opposite is true.

Rest is an important part of any physical activity.

It is the time when your muscles get to recover and grow.

The best ideas also come during periods of recovery.

Your child gets some time to figure out how to land that new move or produce a fun routine

 

Get Your Coach Involved

Online coaching of sports has skyrocketed since the pandemic.

Even ice-skating coaches hold sessions over Zoom calls!

Skating on a home rink is a wonderful time to enlist a coach who can give some tips over video.

They can discuss your child’s form or answer any pressing questions.

A Zoom coach can help if there is an upcoming recital or tournament and your child needs some extra prep.

 

Conclusion

With advancements in all aspects of sports training and medicine, athletes are constantly looking to get a "jump" on their competition (pun intended).

And why not when the opportunity is there?

Many successful athletes use all the tools available to them to advance their skills and build confidence in taking their abilities to the next level.

Synthetic ice training centers have been on the rise throughout the hockey community and it's only a matter of time before competitive skating starts to catch up.

The "Home Ice Rink Advantage" is a great solution to when the closest Ice Arena is closed during the off-season and as Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz would say, "There's no place Like Home!"

Be Sure to follow Kendal on her Instagram page @Love_Skate_Kendal

You no longer have to wait for the change of seasons to enjoy ice skating on a iceless rink.

There are many skaters (about 6 million, to be exact), that love to lace-up those skates and hit the ice.

From recreational skating to hockey and everything in between, ice skating is one of the silver linings of freezing temperatures.

It’s also a time for families to set up a backyard ice rink.

Backyard ice rinks allow hours of skating at your convenience, but the setup could sometimes be challenging.

However, thanks to technology and the availability of synthetic ice, a rink without ‘traditional ice’ is possible.

 

 

Benefits of a backyard rink

If you are unaware of what a backyard rink is or you are researching to set up your first one, it is a dedicated space in your backyard for ice skating.

Backyard rinks pop up during the winter months and are very popular in the United States and Canada.

The simplest rinks take lots of wood, water, and ingenuity and some sophisticated backyard rinks use refrigeration.

A common question you may have is, ‘why should I build my own in the first place?’ 

There are several benefits of building your rink:

• Skate on your own time: A neighborhood or commercial rink has specific open times. It can also take time out of your day to get there (or get the kids there). With a backyard ice rink, all you need to do is head outside, lace up your skates, then skate and play for as long as you like.
• A cost-saving/money-making measure: Personal rinks need an up-front investment. However, the cost savings are noticeable if you compare the time and money it takes to get similar use from a neighborhood rink. You can even use the rink to host gatherings, or private coaching sessions, earning some extra in the process.
• Bring out your engineering skills: If you’re looking for a hobby or passion project, you can maximize your backyard space, grab a friend, and get building. 
• Improve your skating skills: Practice makes perfect. The more you skate, the better you’ll get at it. Having a backyard rink is a great way for kids to practice fundamentals in their favorite ice sport. It’s also an opportunity for you to pick up a new healthy hobby and get better at it faster. 
• Bringing the neighborhood together: Backyard ice rinks are like a homing beacon for the neighborhood. Everyone hears about it and wants to get in on the action. A large rink in your backyard is a great way to connect with the community, bring kids together, and much more.
• Relieve your stress: There’s a common saying that goes, “the ice rink is like a second world where nothing else matters.” Competitive ice skaters often talk about the freeness of being on the ice. If you need some quiet, stress-free time, why not take a moment to yourself on the ice? 

Now that you’ve seen the benefits, you may be thinking of building your own ice rink.

Most rink builders go the route of a traditional or refrigerated rink.

Traditional rinks use large amounts of water (at least 2000 gallons) in an enclosed space made with plywood.

These rinks depend on the weather and set after the First Freeze with winter.

Refrigerated rinks use water, a coolant, and a refrigeration system for a consistently solid rink that can last for months.

Yet, there is another way, without traditional ice.

Synthetic ice panels can help you get your backyard rink up and running quickly.

 

 

 

Your rink without traditional ice

Synthetic ice rinks have been around for decades.

They were mainly set up in commercial spaces like malls and hotels.

The availability of materials and technology allow synthetic ice to be customized for different spaces, bringing synthetic ice right to the home.

Synthetic ice is durable, solid polymer sheet made of unique polyethylene material.

The panels have interlocking ends that connect like puzzle pieces on your surface of choice for a smooth, skatable surface.

An iceless rink could be outfitted for any size and almost any space.

If you have a small room or space in your garage, tiles will allow fantastic skating.

A larger backyard rink or commercial space would need thicker, more durable synthetic panels. 

 

 

How does an iceless rink compare to natural ice rinks?

You can set up an entire backyard rink with synthetic panels, but does it make sense?

People have been setting up natural rinks for years, so how does it compare to synthetic ice?

1. Synthetic ice rinks are easy to install: The panels can fit seamlessly together and can be custom ordered for almost any space. Natural rinks need enough plywood to build the rink walls. From there, the rink will need a large tarp and enough water to fill the rink, which then needs to freeze.
2. You’ll need patience: Are you anxious about skating? If you’re building a natural rink, you’ll need temperatures of 32 degrees or less at night for several days to harden the ground before filling the rink. 
3. Synthetic ice rinks are cost-effective: Rinks can save you money and even earn you money. However, you can save even more by going synthetic. The panels are a one-time cost upfront and can be reused for more winters to come.
4. It’s environmentally friendly: Are you concerned about your environment? Going synthetic saves thousands of gallons of water. Not only would you have a cheaper water bill, but you’ll also do your part for the environment.
5. It’s durable: Your synthetic ice panel can last for years, saving time, money, and energy. The length of the window for ice rinks are declining due to climate change. Not only would you have a rink for longer during the winter, but year-round if you choose.
6. Beware of flooding: If the walls of your rink aren’t supported, the rink has a chance of icing over. In some cases, your backyard is at risk of flooding. An iceless rink would not need bracing. It could be easily dismantled and stored after use. 
7. It’s not natural ice: Synthetic ice tends to have more friction than natural ice. If you’re accustomed to skating on conventional rinks, you may feel the difference. The technology behind synthetic ice has significantly reduced friction over the years. However, synthetic ice helps with improving strength and speed.

 

Refrigerated ice rinks vs. synthetic ice

What about refrigerated ice?

Should you go with an iceless rink if you have access to a refrigerated rink?

Refrigerated ice rinks aren’t as popular for backyards because of the exhorbident costs it takes to maintain and run them.

However, there are some pros and cons with refrigerated ice:

1. Refrigerated ice rinks require professional installation and maintenance.
2. The refrigeration equipment, coolant, and setup cost can add up compared to a synthetic ice rink. 
3. Refrigerated ice rinks can stay around longer than natural links. It still won’t match up to the year-round use of an iceless rink. You or your kids can practice at any time, giving them an advantage when it’s time to compete.
4. For the best experience, you’ll need to remove snow and resurface your rink with hot water. With synthetic ice, you’ll just need Slip Surface Conditioner occasionally added for the best skating experience. 

 

 

How to go “ice-less.”

If you’re ready to skate or set up a rink for your kids and neighbors (and thinking of an iceless rink), there are a few simple steps you should follow:

• Make sure you measure your backyard with a tape measure. You can use wooden stakes and fishing wire or twine to mark off the space. When you’re purchasing synthetic ice, you’ll have a clear idea of the surface area and how many panels you’ll need to purchase.
• Walls are optional, but they add a clean look to your rink. You can invest in plexiglass walls, wood, or a rebounding dasher curb set.
• If you have an uneven backyard (most backyards have a slope), you’ll need to find a space that’s level. The same wooden stakes can help you check the slope of your yard. Use the steps on this link to measure the percentage of your slope. An uneven backyard will create a poor skating experience, so set a plywood floor before placing your synthetic ice panels. 
• Get some help to connect the panels. Full-size panels can weigh as much as 80lbs, so you’ll need at least one friend to help you set up.
• A soft mallet will ensure the panels are snug. If the panels aren’t in place, you’ll feel it when you skate. 
• Don’t forget to clean shavings with a soft brush or mop and apply conditioner as needed.

 

Conclusion

Synthetic or not, skating in your backyard is a fantastic experience.

You can duplicate the feeling of skating on natural ice with an iceless rink.

Your synthetic ice is easy to set up, maintain and lasts for years.

If you’re unsure of the measurements or type of tiles and panels you’ll need, you can reach out to our team for help.

We love seeing new backyard rinks.

So let’s help you build yours. 

The first outdoor ice rink dates all the way back to the 1800s.

The goal was to have a dedicated space for ice skating instead of waiting for a lake or other body of water to freeze.

An outdoor ice rink is much more fun (not to mention safer) and has opened the door for ice skating sports and activities.

Today, setting up an outdoor ice rink is much easier. 

There are hundreds of community and private rinks in North America. 

Businesses can install large commercial skating parks during the holidays.

And if you have a big enough backyard, you can have your own ice rink too.

When we think about ice rinks, figure skating and ice hockey come to mind.

For most people with rinks, these are great activities to keep fit and have fun.

For others, skating on rinks improve techniques and helps with practice if you (or a family member) are on a professional track.

After a while, you might want to mix things up a bit.

Taking Things Beyond Skating

An ice rink outdoor or indoor is a smooth, flat surface to skate with your ice skates.

However, that does not mean it needs to end there.

Rinks can be great places to build communities, host events, and work on your passions.

In some cases, businesses - and individual rink owners - can grow their income.

A rink of any form is an investment.

Owners need equipment and manpower to build and maintain them.

So it’s best to find ways to maximize the fun, usefulness, and, of course, the investment you’ve made. 

We’ve sold, built, and owned rinks over the years.

We’ve seen some cool ways people have maximized the use of their rinks.

If you have a rink of your own, try one of these fun ways to use your rink. 

 

1. Hold A Play On Ice

Disney on ice has been around for 40 years, showcasing their popular stories through ice skating and figure skating techniques.

The popularity of shows like The Little Mermaid and Aladdin shows no signs of slowing down.

So why not make your own ice show?

The family can come together to perform a favorite play.

Record it to share with your friends and family or invite the community.

It’s a fun way to work on your skating and acting chops. 

 

 

2. Create an Airbnb Experience

The ongoing pandemic has shaped the way people go out and enjoy experiences.

As a result, many aim for smaller, more intimate (and potentially safer) events and experiences.

This need has increased the popularity of Airbnb Experiences, which was around before the start of the pandemic.

Airbnb experiences are micro-events held by special hosts that you can do in the town you’re staying.

Some experiences come with the AirBnB room or apartment.

Others are stand-alone events created by enthusiastic hosts. 

If you own a backyard rink or commercial rink, why not create an experience on the ice?

It could be a skating lesson, access to the rink, or lunch on the ice.

You can control the availability and access of the rink.

Creating an experience is a great way to expose others to skating and make an additional income.

 

 

3. A Skating Birthday Party

Airbnb is aimed at external persons visiting your rink, but you can do something for your friends and family too.

We’ve seen ice skating, figure skating, and hockey-themed birthday parties.

You can throw a party for an upcoming birthday right on the ice!

Decorate your rink walls, set up skating games, and keep lots of hot cocoa on hand.

Commercial rink owners can also set up ice skating birthday parties.

Provide drinks, eats, and a specific time on the ice as part of your package. 

 

4. Feel The Love On Ice

Do you have a loved one who’s obsessed with the ice?

Then it’s a great place to have an intimate moment.

Set up a lunch or dinner just for two on the ice.

You can even take things further and set up a wedding proposal!

If you have a synthetic ice rink - or have access to one - it will be easier to prepare a delightful proposal.

You can even go a step further like Mike and Melissa and have your wedding right at the rink!

 

 

5. Hold Ice Skating 101 Classes

If you have a large backyard ice rink, it’s a great time to share the joy you get from skating.

Today, people are looking for new, unique experiences, so teach them how to skate!

Invite a few persons from the community to the rink to learn the fundamentals of moving on the ice, or you can create a social media channel that teaches and targets your skating skills.

Why not share what you know?

 

6. A Neighborhood Hockey Tournament

Now it’s time to ramp things up.

People are still looking for safe spaces to resume their skating training, practice, and even play 3-on-3 games.

If your kids have been training but aching to compete, set up a friendly tournament on home turf.

Invite neighborhood kids or a team from the next town to have some fun on the ice.  

 

 

7. Ice Skating Photoshoots

People love the Rink at Rockefeller not only for the fantastic tree and ambiance but for the memories they form going there again and again.

They usually capture to moment with their camera phones or photographers located at the rink. That got us thinking.

Rinks are some great backdrops for some photos!

A couples photoshoot or a family portrait of a hockey-crazed family will be an excellent gift for the holidays.

Ice rink owners can get the decorations, backdrops, and camera and start posting online about photoshoots. Take some sample photos and share them online.

It’s a great way to add some extra income from your rink. 

 

8. A Mixer On Ice

A mixer on ice is not a cocktail, but there are cocktails involved!

Mixers are great ways for specific groups or communities to interact and build friendships.

A backyard rink is a great place to have a Friday evening mixer.

If you’re running a commercial rink, you can arrange mixers with local groups, businesses or host mixer events on ice for charity. 

 

9. Ice Rink Exercise

Ice skating has a wonderful side effect. It keeps you in shape.

Not only can you build your cardio, but you can also strengthen your core, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. Consistent practice even builds your endurance.

An outdoor ice rink doubles as a great space to improve your overall health.

Instead of heading to the gym, strap on some skates and spend 30 minutes with some high-intensity skating.

Commercial rinks can also encourage small groups to exercise on certain days of the week.

Exercise can get boring, and ice skating is a great way to mix things up.

 

10. A Movie Night On Ice

Get the projector screen ready because it’s time for a movie night!

Warm-up under some blankets and popcorn while you project a classic Christmas or ice movie (Mighty Ducks, anyone?).

Invite family, friends, or neighbors over and have fun on your backyard rink.

If you have a commercial space, you can combine skating with a movie of choice. Combine different offers for different group sizes or make it an Airbnb Experience (as mentioned in number three). 

 

11. Try Another Ice Sport

Do you know there are other sports you can play on your ice rink?

Some of these games have been around for decades, and most people are unaware they exist.

Here are some fun ones:

• Broomball: As the name implies, broomball game is played with a stick that looks like a broom and a ball. This game goes not need skates but tennis shoes. The goal is to use your broom to get the ball into the goal. Think of hockey but without the puck and skates.
• Ringette: Another hockey-like game, ringette uses a straight stick and a rubber, ring-like object. You’ll have some fun playing the game since there is no body-checking (although that does make hockey kinda fun!). 
• Curling: Curling is a popular ice sport, especially around the Winter Olympics. The sport involves sliding large stones to a target along the ice. Two teams compete in sliding large stones to a target. You can find curling kits online to go with your outdoor ice rink. 

Picking up another sport changes things up, and you may even find a new passion!

 

Conclusion

Now, with the proper budget and the suitable space, it’s easier than ever to set up an outdoor ice rink for business or personal use.

Rinks set up at home are often artificial, combining wood, liner, and lots of water.

Refrigerated rinks are more expensive and popular in commercial spaces.

They use a system similar to your home refrigerator to keep a consistent temperature but require constant maintenance. 

Synthetic ice tiles and panels use a unique polyethylene material to emulate the look and feel of ice.

These panels can be customized and connected like puzzle pieces to fit almost any space.

You can use your metal skates on synthetic ice with minimal friction.

What makes synthetic ice great is its durability and the ability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to use it year-round.

It’s also a great option to quickly host some of these fantastic outdoor ideas!

If you love ice skating and you’re ready to set up a rink for personal or business use, look at your space, figure out the pros and cons, then choose the best type of rink for you. 

 

With every years passing cold snap, needless to say, there were a lot of cautious parents out there worried about their kids getting frostbite after spending 15 minutes ice skating in the sub-arctic temperature.

Though the conditions may have been ideal for ice-making, skin exposure becomes a real issue for even the purest of hockey players and figure skaters.

With temperatures reaching dangerous levels, needless to say, staying indoors quickly became a priority.

You know it’s really getting crazy when northern Florida starts getting snow flurries and driving conditions throughout the USA become a total mess from coast to coast.

The Dangers of Outdoor Ice Skating

The snow can feel like an excellent opportunity to head out and go ice skating.

Even when the weather worsens, adults and kids find time to play hockey and practice figure skating on outdoor rinks.

Yet, outdoor skating during the cold winter months is not without risk.

Skating injuries are common, with about 50,000 recorded injuries occurring every year.

Some of the most common injuries include:

Hypothermia or Frostbite:  Hypothermia occurs when you are exposed to cold temperatures for long periods.

Your core body temperature drops below 95 degrees, and you cannot generate more heat. 

As a result, the body begins to shut down organs to preserve the brain.

As a result, you experience shivering, then dizziness, signs of confusion, and loss of coordination.

On rare occasions for skaters, hypothermia can lead to frostbite.

First-degree frostbite feels painful, with a numbing, burning sensation in the fingers or toes.

Bone bruises and fractures: Regardless of your skating sport, you will fall—a lot.

And with falls comes the possibility of injury.

Bone bruises are the most common, thanks to repeated falls on your butt, legs, or sides.

The impacted area feels painful and changes color, with swelling and soreness as other symptoms.

These can take a few days to a few weeks to fully recover.

Fractures of limbs, hands and feet are more severe, needing medical attention.

Outdoor ice is quite hard, and repeated falls while ice skating can sometimes lead to these injuries.

Ligament injuries:  Ligaments and tendons connect muscle to bone and bone to bone, respectively.

These are responsible for flexibility and shock absorption.

Sports injuries often involve a stretched or ruptured tendon.

One collision or missed jump can lead to ligament injuries in the hands, wrist, knee, or foot.

Of course, ice sports like hockey are high-risk, contact sports.

However, the cold weather can lead to cold muscles, which increases the chances of injury. 

Here’s How You Can Keep Everyone Safe

We love skating outdoors. The cold weather and occasional flurries bring added magic to the process.

There are some ways you or your kids can skate safely during winter. It’s all about taking the proper precautions before you hit the ice:

Check the weather: In a perfect world, the temperatures will stay constant during winter with no hail, snow, or suddenly plummeting temps.

Before you or your kids head out to skate, know what to expect during the day.

That way, everyone can head inside or take more precautions for a safe experience.

Bundle up: An extra layer of clothing can go a long way.

Of course, anyone who skates wants the option of speed and power.

They can feel weighed down by extra clothes.

However, keeping warm is the best way to protect against the elements.

Kids are also at risk of hypothermia and frostbite more than adults, especially on fingers, ears, and noses.

You may even want to consider a pair of snow pants for some extra warm protection.

Make sure they also have earmuffs and take frequent breaks in a warm space. 

Don't forget to warmup: It’s tempting to put on your skates and head straight to the ice, even for a recreational skate.

However, mixed with freezing temperatures, a cold body is a recipe for injury.

Muscles shorten or contract when we sit for hours or transit to the rink.

When you add cold temperatures, muscles and ligaments can feel even stiffer.

A quick warmup helps you lengthen and fire up your muscles and ligaments.

It also increases your core body temperature, reducing the chances of injury. 

Learn how to fall: Falling is a part of ice skating and happens to even the best skaters.

It’s how we get bruises and even broken bones.

However, there’s a right and wrong way to fall.

If you learn to fall the right way, you avoid injury, especially your hands and arms.

Learning to fall is one of the first lessons skaters learn, but it does not hurt to have a refresher before heading to the ice.

As a rule of thumb, if you feel like you’re falling, try sitting down.

Check your surroundings: If you have access to a frozen lake or body of water, you’ll be excited to get on the ice ASAP.

However, you should take the time to check your ice before skating.

Cracks and other unstable parts of the ice can be dangerous.

If your kids are skating, take the time to assess the ice, ensuring they avoid these potential hazards.

Afterward, make sure that you or an adult supervise their skating. 

Turn up the heat

Skating in the cold outdoors can help prepare you or your kids physically and mentally for competitive skating.

But there should be times these conditions could be a hindrance to practice. 

What if there was a way to bypass the ice and turn up the heat?

Creating a home ice skating rink indoors was never much of an option In the old days, but not anymore.

Today's modern-day synthetic ice offers a viable solution to those who prefer to leave the wind chill where it belongs…. Outside! 

It's also a great way to keep the sniffles away by working out in a controlled environment.

Hockey players and figure skaters have been taking advantage of this new-age product more and more with each passing season as the quality has improved dramatically over the years. 

Skaters of all levels covet this product for its training capabilities and flexibility.

Synthetic ice is made of polyethylene; a product only invented in the 1960s.

This unique plastic allows you to use your metal skates to slip and slide to your heart's desire.

Originally it was primarily used commercially for malls and large indoor rinks.

Over the years, technology and availability have allowed synthetic ice tiles and panels for the home.

There must be a slipping agent or compound added before use for synthetic ice to work effectively.

Thanks to technology, we have created infused ice with this special compound already added to the polyethylene.

As a result, infused ice brings improved skating with minimal maintenance. 

 

Benefits of an Indoor Synthetic Ice Rink

Synthetic ice comes in small tiles or larger panels that you connect like puzzle pieces.

This special mat can be installed in less than an hour, depending on the location.

These tiles are also durable, lasting for a decade or more.

That means you get maximum use out of your investment.

These are several more benefits to opting for an indoor rink instead of heading to a commercial rink or building your own. 

More Practice Time

Garage synthetic ice rinks have been popping up throughout the US as an ideal space that can be utilized for an indoor rink.

A typical single garage area measures roughly 12' x 20' and allow plenty of room for skaters to pivot and turn and work on their inside and outside edges.

For figure skaters, it's a great place to work on their spins and skating routine.

Likewise, hockey players have enough space to hone their deking and stick-handling skills and strengthen their stride.

Their practice time is limited for kids and parents who depend on local or school rinks.

Since other kids (and adults) are competing for that space, you barely get an hour a week if you're practicing on the weekends.

This limited time, coupled with the hassle of transport, can discourage both kids and parents. 

With a rink in your garage, your kids can practice for hours or skate for fun.

Even if there is a coefficient of friction, the time on the ice compared to the competition is unmatched.

A study by Rice University, Princeton University, and Michigan State University showed that consistent practice could increase your performance by at least 20%.

A synthetic ice rink could be the difference-maker for kids trying to make the team.

Put the Hose Away

The thought of not having to worry about your hose freezing up for once is one of the many advantages of owning your synthetic ice rink. 

You can create your own rink in your backyard. It’s a cool, fulfilling project that takes a bit of skill and a lot of water. 

In fact, we have some helpful content on how you can design and build your backyard rink. 

During the build, you have to deal with the elements.

More snow means the possibility of a frozen hose and a frozen-over rink.  

By choosing a synthetic ice rink, you can put the hose away and have fun indoors. 

Those who reside in warm climate areas can have a little bit of Canada in their backyard.

They can benefit from synthetic ice panels, too, since they can’t make their own backyard rinks.

The rinks will only continue to help grow the game of hockey in areas where it’s not quite as popular. 

Save Time and Money.

Figure skaters could take lessons at home on their own time without running back and forth to the rink.

The same goes for hockey players.

When you add up the commute, extra coaching, and equipment, it begins to burn a hole in your pocket.

And if you decide on building and maintaining your backyard rink, it can be both time-consuming and costly.

Every year, Pete Sven of DIY PETE builds a massive rink on his land in the Rockies.

His videos on building and maintaining the rink rack up hundreds of thousands of views.

People comment on how challenging it is to maintain the rink due to the weather.

You may not be building a rink that large or at that altitude, but it just shows the time, effort, and resources needed for your rink. 

A large, indoor synthetic rink can feel like a solid upfront investment.

However, you’ll spend more time enjoying the ice than making sure you can skate on it. 

Safer Practice Periods

As mentioned before, hockey and figure skating mean the possibility of injury.

A particular fear of ice athletes is getting injured during practice and not competitive play.

They don’t get a chance to show their talents on the ice.

If you’re looking to increase your practice times, you also increase the risk of injury.

Falling on synthetic ice is not as damaging as on natural ice.

Skaters are also mindful of movements in a smaller home rink.

Parents can breathe easier, and everyone can get more practice time. 

Train in the off-season

Unless you’re a professional athlete or living far North, skating is a seasonal sport.

Once the ice melts, the ice skates go into the closet until the following season. 

This can feel like a bit of a bummer for ice skating lovers.

Some kids switch to rollerblades, but it can be a tough transition back to ice skates when winter returns.

If you have a synthetic ice rink, you’re not limited by the seasons. 

You can train right through the year, honing your skills so you can crush it when it’s time to compete.

Professional athletes depend on synthetic ice in their homes to practice specific skills during the year. 

The flatter, more rigid surface also imitates hockey ice allowing for faster skating and a more realistic puck movement. 

These benefits give them a competitive edge that was once impossible a few decades ago. 

 

Skating hot vs. cold

Some skaters have genuine concerns about skating indoors and not on natural ice.

These are normal, but we can safely say that there will be no drop-off in performance. 

For starters, when you’re indoors, you can guarantee a consistent temperature instead of outdoors.

Commercial and competitive rinks maintain a set temperature for the ice.

However, if you have an adjustable thermostat for that room, you can slightly lower the temperature to create a similar environment. 

You or your kids can also skate in full gear or just some sweats.

The complete kit improves their power while the sweats increase their speed.

Synthetic ice also has a higher coefficient of friction than regular ice.

Our infused technology helps the variance be 10% or less.

This friction feels similar to a rink that needs to be resurfaced.

The added force needed to skate improves power, which in turn improves speed on the natural ice. 

The most significant difference is often the mental game.

Some skaters feel that skating on synthetic ice in a warm space may dull the senses.

You can’t completely emulate the ice, water vapor, and natural feeling of the ice.

We disagree. Training in any condition gets you ready and pumped up to perform.

Then, when it’s time to go, you won’t feel the difference.

You’ll remember when you scored that goal or landed that jump. 

Conclusion

I think if we could all paint the perfect picture we would all own a natural ice rink in our backyard under ideal weather conditions year-round but it ain't gonna happen.

As climates change, backyard ice rinks are at risk of snowstorms, wind, hail, and other issues that damage the surface.

Experts also expect the skating season to reduce in the coming decades due to climate change. 

The fact is there are now other options that make perfect sense and can achieve the same results in the comfort of your own home.

We no longer have to be prisoners of the ice arena in deciding when or where our next session on the ice will occur. 

Skating throughout the year on synthetic ice has the benefits of improving our stick handling, increasing our stamina, and reducing injury.

You also maximize the use of your garage or other indoor space so your kids can practice and play in a constructive way. 

Synthetic ice panels can feel a bit confusing at first.

What size do you need?

What type?

How do you take care of it?

We can answer those questions and more, helping you to have the best experience possible.

Our team has built rinks for all spaces and all seasons.

Let’s get your rink up and running so we can get you some ice and turn up the heat!

There are now so many options when it comes to ice skating including owning your own PolyGlide Synthetic Ice rink to practice skating at home.

Hundreds of thousands of people head out to the rink with each passing season to disconnect from their phones for a few hours just to enjoy a leasurely skate.

Unfortunately, this may not be the case depending on where your live.

Having easy access to ice can be a challenge for many people looking to hit the ice each year.

Initial reports have some famous ice rinks closing due to health concerns and anticipated low attendance.

Many of these rinks depended on hundreds of daily visitors.

They can lose thousands of dollars in overhead costs and reduced business.

Rink closures are a huge blow to avid ice skaters who look forward to ice skating with friends and family.

Recently many ice rinks are forging ahead with implementing strict protocols in place for safety.

For instance, the famous Cosmopolitan skating rink in Las Vegas will be going ahead as planned, limited to 60 skaters.

For others, being fully operational to the public may not be possible.

However, there may still be some ways that businesses and skaters can pivot to enjoy the ice sports they love so much.

From going virtual to investing in synthetic ice tiles, here are some holiday ice rinks alternatives to consider.

 

The Businesses of Ice Rinks

Skating rinks and other holiday ice rinks may be seasonal, but the business is a multimillion-dollar market.

Ice rinks make money from using the rink, concession stands, skate rentals, and even skate sharpening.

Holiday ice rinks also employ hundreds of people for seasonal work. 

It’s All about Safety.

While several rinks will be closed due to restrictions or profitability, for those who aren’t mandated, safety must be the top priority.

Simple steps like masks, spaced out customer traffic, sanitizing equipment, and temperature checks can minimize issues.

Even with safety protocols in place, there will still be a significant decline in traffic.

So there are a few ways that businesses can pivot to make the most of the holiday season. 

Consider Exclusive Rentals. 

People love exclusivity, and for ice skating, it will be no different.

To compensate for revenue, holiday ice rinks should consider renting out the rink on particular days for small corporate events like skating discos, team bonding, or fun tournaments.

Companies are still looking for ways to improve their staff morale.

A controlled event in an open space like ice skating can do just that.

More importantly, rink owners can charge corporate rates per skater, increasing overall profit.

These holiday rink owners will need to show safety protocols at the rink.

Consider marketing to nearby firms, small businesses, and even celebrities to book as many personal, safe events as possible. 

Host a Virtual Skating Event.

Why not put on a show?

Collaborate with amateur and professional figure skaters or dance troupes to put on a virtual event.

You can have skating enthusiasts pay for exclusive access to the event.

With the impact of covid-19, virtual events have risen significantly.

Persons are more likely to pay for special occasions they can view in the comfort of their own homes.

The added income from virtual events can supplement the lost revenue from reduced capacity.

 

 

Care for a Collab?

 In these difficult times, businesses are stronger together.

A collaborative event or effort can be profitable for both parties.

How can your company team up with another to create a successful event or promotion?

This may even mean collaborating with your competition.

For instance, companies like ours sell synthetic ice tiles that can be used at home.

Can your team provide virtual training lessons or sell skates to these users?

For many holiday ice rink providers, staying afloat means being creative and stepping out of their comfort zones. 

Home Skaters Need to Pivot Too.

With over 6 million active skaters in the country, there will be always be a need for available ice time.

For many, skating is more than a seasonal activity; it’s a way of life.

Others are just excited to hone their skills, learn skating, or connect with their friends and family in a fun way.

Best of all, it’s a tradition that connects thousands of families.

With major ice rinks closing for the holidays, it seems to be all but over.

We know the joy that skating brings and that joy is what motivated us to create our company.

Luckily, there are a few ways to still enjoy skating no matter where you live, regardless of climate.

Build Your own Backyard Rink

Have some space in your backyard?

Why not take on a cool holiday project?

Get your friends or family together and build a backyard rink.

Even during these difficult times, you can build a relatively inexpensive rink.

Look for a level surface in your back yard.

If the space appears sloped, you’ll need to fill it in.

You’ll also need to time it well, starting the days leading up to the first freeze.

Then you’ll need materials for rink walls (wood, PVC, or special sideboards) and brackets to hold them in place.

You can even get professionally made dasher boards for that authentic rink feel.

Next, fill up your rink with water and let nature get to work.

In short order, you’ll have a rink that you, your friends, and your family can enjoy. 

 

 

Take it Inside with PolyGlide Synthetic Ice Tiles.

Does setting up a DIY backyard rink sound tedious?

Or maybe you don’t have the weather in your favor.

Then consider investing in Polyglide Synthetic Ice tiles.

Synthetic ice tiles are made of a strong but smooth polymer that’s perfect for skating and quite portable at only 10lbs. each.

These tiles connect like puzzle pieces and can fit on almost any hard surface.

On these smooth polymer sheets, you can use regular ice skates and have an amazng skating experience.

You can choose infused ice, which are self-lubircating tiles.

These maintain their smoothness and has less friction.

Non-infused need a additional liquid enhancer but has been known to stay cleaner for longer.

To set up your synthetic ice tiles:

• Measure your room, driveway, deck or backyard. Leave a small space at the edges to compensate for swelling due to heat.
• Order your panels. At Polyglide Ice, we have panels available for any skating activity. However, we can customize your panels to fit your space.
• Once you receive them, install your panels using a soft mallet. Make sure the surface is flat and even. If it isn’t, plywood boards can help. 

So if you have a spare room, basement, it’s a great way to start or continue skating in the safety of your home.

Synthetic ice panels like ours can last more than a decade, so you can pick them up and reuse them for the holidays.

Or you can use them around throughout the year to become an exceptional skater or stay in shape.

 

Try Your Hand at Curling!

With these changes in effect, it’s a great time to try something new.

Besides ice skating, there are other fun, safe ice activities you can try at home.

We’re a big fan of curling.

The sport has been around for more than 400 years and involves sliding large stones along ice towards a target area.

Curling rinks have gone indoors for some time now and our PolyGlide-Pro Curling Synthetic Ice Rinks can be installed virtually anywhere!

You can set up a curling rink in a spare room or family room for hours of fun.

A small, trusted group of friends could come over and enjoy the holiday your way. 

Still Venture Out (Safely)

While some popular rinks will be closed, there may be smaller rinks in your area open for business.

If you’re comfortable heading out and confident in your safety protocols, then try a smaller rink.

Research the rules and safety measures in place by the rink, to help you make a better decision.

If possible, schedule the time you’ll be visiting to minimize your interactions.

Take your own skates if possible.

If you can safely navigate the rink, you’ll be doing your part to help rink owners stay afloat in what has been a challenging year. 

Conclusion

The last few years have created an unfortunate blow to many businesses including the local ice rinks that we’ve enjoyed for years.

With the large crowds some rinks draw, it’s understandable why most rinks have no choice but to close up shop; some of their biggest clients won’t be investing in rinks this year.

However, for those that are up and running, these challenging times can bring out creativity and resilience that can help for years to come. 

Skaters will also feel disappointed this year.

However, there are alternatives, like a portable home rink, that anyone can enjoy with close friends and family.    

Take a second and check out some of our most popular rink packages that are easy to assemble and will have you skating in no time!

PolyGlide Ice - Home Ice Tiles

PolyGlide Ice - Pro-Glide Panels

 

Keep on Skating! 

Jim Loughran, PolyGlide Ice
www.polyglideice.com