How To Get Started Speed Skating

Speed Skating
Speed Skating. Photo by Corey Davis - Getty Images
by Jo Ann Schneider Farris
Jo Ann Schneider Farris was a silver medalist in junior ice dancing at the 1975 U.S. National Figure Skating Championships and is the author of two books on skating
Updated May 23, 2019

Getting started at speed skating does involve some planning and preparation.

Here's How

  1. First, learn how to ice skate.It is not necessary to purchase speed skates immediately. It is best to learn basic ice skating skills while wearing figure skates or ice hockey skates.
  2. Register and take some ice skating lessons.Most ice arenas offer weekly group lessons that usually run from six to twelve weeks. These group lessons cover many ice skating basics.
  3. Master basic ice skating skills.Some of the basic skills needed before learning to speed skate include:
      • Falling and Getting Up
  4. Stopping
  5. Forward Swizzles
  6. Moving Forward on Ice Skates
  7. One Foot Glides
  8. Forward Crossovers
  9. Master some of basic speed skating skills.Some skills new speed skaters should be able to do include:
      • Starting and stopping,
  10. The Basic Speed Skating Position
  11. The Straightaway stroke
  12. The Corner Stroke
  13. Register for speed skating lessons and/or find a speed skating club.Call your local ice arena and inquire about speed skating lessons and programs.
    1. U.S. Speed Skating has produced a Speed Skating Basic Skills Manual and provides speed skating lessons through the U.S. Figure Skating Basic Skills Program.
  1. Purchase speed skates and protective equipment.Once you are part of a speed skating club, get recommendations on where to purchase speed skates that fit your needs. Speed skates can be very expensive, but it may be possible to purchase used equipment.
  2. Practice.Those new to speed skating practice at least two to three times a week. As a racer advances, more practice time is necessary.
  3. Participate in speed skating races and events.Your speed skating club and coaches will keep you informed about speed skating races and events. Participate in races as much as possible.

What You Need

  • Speed skates are not necessary at first but should be purchased eventually.
  • Protective gear such as helmets and gloves.
  • A skin-tight racing suit will eventually be necessary.
  • Some racers wear neck guards and protective goggles.