Ice skating

Ice skating is a winter activity you can enjoy during your ski holiday. Discover where and how to try ice skating in the mountains. Popular in ski resorts, it offers a fun alternative to the snowy slopes. On an open-air rink surrounded by mountains, the experience is truly magical. Families and friends can share joyful moments, gliding together under the winter sky. Ice skating is also great exercise, helping to improve balance and coordination. Many ski resorts offer lessons for beginners, making it accessible to everyone. After a day on the slopes, skating is a relaxing way to stay in the festive winter spirit.

What is ice skating?

Definition and introduction to ice skating

Ice skating is both an artistic sport and a leisure activity. It involves gliding on ice with special footwear called ice skates, usually on an ice rink. Originally, it was practised on frozen bodies of water in regions where the climate naturally created such surfaces. The first artificial ice rink was built in London in 1876.

Requirements

Beyond enthusiasm and the desire to skate, anyone wanting to go ice skating should be in good physical condition and follow certain rules for comfort and safety. For example, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing that allows free movement. You should also protect your head and hands with suitable equipment.

Essential equipment

Several key elements are essential for ice skating, whether you are a beginner or experienced. These include agility, balance, and coordination. A skater must be able to get up quickly after a fall. Once stability on the ice is achieved, they should be able to coordinate their movements. This list is not exhaustive, as other important qualities such as flexibility can also be added.

Physical conditions

Anyone wanting to go ice skating should remember that it is a physically demanding sport. Serious physical preparation is recommended. Before starting, skaters should always warm up properly to reduce the risk of injury. The temperature on the ice rink is particularly low, which is an important factor to consider to avoid unpleasant surprises.

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What equipment do you need for ice skating?

Ice skates

Ice skates are the basic equipment needed for ice skating. There are several models available to meet the specific needs of each skater. For those who want to skate for leisure, a flexible boot design is ideal. For artistic skating, high-cut boots are more suitable. When buying, it's important to consider the type of blade. You should also choose thin socks and make sure the heel does not lift from the skate’s sole and that your toes don’t touch the front of the boot. Depending on the brand and features, prices for these essential items range from a few dozen to several hundred pounds.

Clothing for ice skating

A skater needs to wear appropriate clothing that allows freedom of movement and comfort. It’s best to choose functional garments that aren’t too warm. From trousers and leggings to tunics and dresses, these outfits should let you sweat comfortably. Prices vary widely, from a few dozen to several hundred pounds, depending on the type of clothing.

Protective equipment

When ice skating, protection is essential as falls are common, especially during the early learning stages. A wide range of protective gear is available for skaters. Wearing a helmet is recommended, and often mandatory for children and beginners. For added safety, novices should wear padded trousers. It’s also advised to wear a hat, gloves, and suitable guards to protect elbows, wrists, and knees. Finally, blade guards provide extra comfort when moving off the ice.

Where to practice ice skating?

La Plagne

Located in the Tarentaise Valley in the Savoie region, La Plagne is a ski resort that offers a natural ice rink perfectly suited for beginners and children.