Ice skating | Activities

What to expect

Ice skating is both a recreational activity and a competitive sport. It involves gliding across an ice rink on ice skates, which are boots with blades attached to the bottom. There are many variations of ice skating, from figure skating to ice hockey and speed skating. Speed skating is a form of racing on ice skates. Ice skating is also a popular winter activity for friends and families, helping them to practise their balance and have fun.

What you'll learn

You’ll learn how to balance and move on the ice, as well as build your confidence and have fun with friends!

Planning your trip

Use a provider or venue: Never skate on frozen water; always use an ice rink.
Accreditations/permits: As ice skating is not on the adventurous activities list, you do not need to consider specific accreditations or qualifications.
Ratios: Check the ratios required by the ice rink; they may have a set adult-to-child ratio.
Risk assessment: You will need to complete a risk assessment. Remember to adjust it to suit your venue and plans.
Adult support:
- Have plenty of adults available to help fit skates properly.
- Adults should remain at the side of the rink to encourage and help where needed.
- Depending on the age group, consider how much support young people will need on the ice. Adults who cannot skate confidently may be more of a hindrance than a help on the ice and may be better supporting from the side.
First aid kits: Ensure first aid kits are accessible while at the venue and that an InTouch system is in place. Plan how you will respond to an incident.
Clothing:
- Legs and arms should be covered. You may suggest that young people bring elbow and knee pads if they have them.
- Waterproof trousers and coats, and gloves are recommended. Falling on the ice can quickly make young people cold and miserable.
- Wear boot socks or thick long socks. Skates should fit snugly, with no foot movement and firm ankle support.
Timing:
- If skating during a public session, consider interaction with the public in your risk assessment.
- The rink may be able to advise on quieter times if you are flexible, or you could consider private hire.
- Make sure you have your own first aid kit, as the rink’s provision may have long queues during busy times.
Safety briefing:
- Take it slowly and stay near the edge if you’re not confident. Stand up tall with your feet close together to help with balance.
- Blades are sharp - keep your fingers away from them. If you fall, pull your fingers and hands in.
- Stop for a rest if you need to, especially if your muscles start aching or you’re getting too cold.
- If you think you’re about to fall, go with it. Bend your knees to fall safely and try not to grab anyone else. Take a breath and take your time getting up.

Handy hints

Bring some hair bobbles. Some rinks ask anyone with long hair to tie it back, so spares are useful.
Bring a camera to capture photos of the group to look back on later.
Bring something to drink. Skating can be tiring, so encourage everyone to bring a drink to stay hydrated. Have a few spares available if needed.

Fun facts

Ice skating is one of the oldest sports in the world, with evidence of it as early as the 1700s in Europe.
The first ice skating club was founded in Edinburgh in the 1740s.

Safety

Active games: The game area should be free of hazards. Explain the rules of the game clearly and have a clear way to communicate that the game must stop when needed. Take a look at our guidance on running active games safely.
Snow and ice: Be careful when activities involve snow and ice. Check surfaces and reduce the risk of slipping where possible. Have appropriate supervision for this activity.
Outdoor activities: You must have permission to use the location. Always check the weather forecast, and inform parents and carers of any change in venue.

Mixed abilities: Some rinks offer skating aids, often shaped like penguins or polar bears, that young people can hold onto while they skate. Consider booking a few for the group to share to help make the activity more accessible for everyone.

You must always:

Complete a risk assessment
Have the right ratios of number of adults to provide suitable supervision
Set up an InTouch process
Know what to do in an emergency
Share information with parents and carers with an activity information form
Get approval from your Lead Volunteer.

Be safe outdoors:

Check the weather forecast

Joint activities with other organisations:

This activity can be run jointly with Girlguiding.
This activity can be run with other organisations.

Guidance

Reflection

Learning to ice skate gives you the opportunity to be active, learn new skills and develop existing ones. You’ll learn how to move confidently and independently across the ice, whether you’re skating on your own or with friends. If you were to do this again, what new techniques you picked up would help you improve next time? Think about how you balanced your weight, how you held your arms for stability, and how you positioned your feet to push and glide smoothly.

Skating on a rink provides a safe, enclosed space to practise your skills. How would you change your approach if you were to skate somewhere busier or in a different environment, like an outdoor rink? Consider how you might adjust your speed, how you would stay aware of the skaters around you, and how you would keep enough space to avoid bumping into others. Think about how these changes might influence your turning, stopping, and overall control on the ice.