5 issues that may make ice skating safer, extra enjoyable

This story was initially revealed in January 2017.

Ice skating is likely one of the many conventional out of doors actions that makes Maine’s lengthy, chilly winter slightly extra tolerable. And it solely requires two issues: ice and skates. But there are a pair extra gadgets that may make this exercise slightly extra gratifying and protected. Here are a couple of:

1. Snow pants or knee pads. A thick pair of insulated pants are good for staying heat, however they’re additionally good for cushioning falls, and let’s face it, for those who’re going to go ice skating, it’s possible you’ll fall. If you are feeling that snow pants are simply too cumbersome or sizzling for skating, it’s possible you’ll wish to contemplate a minimum of sporting knee pads. An unprotected knee cap slamming down on stable ice could be exceptionally painful.

2. A helmet. People generally fall backwards whereas ice skating, particularly when they’re simply studying to skate, and once you fall backwards, it’s very straightforward to hit the again of your head on the ice. Wearing a helmet can assist forestall such a head damage, which might be severe.

3. Ice rescue claws. For individuals ice skating on ponds or lakes, ice rescue claws are easy security instruments that may enable you if, heaven forbid, you fall by way of the ice. Essentially, they’re steel picks that stick out of floating handles. Usually, you’ll carry these on a string round your neck, however you may as well put them in a pocket. If you fall by way of ice, you’re taking one in every hand and use them to grip and pull your self again onto the slippery ice. You should purchase ice rescue claws, or you can also make them out of two 4-inch items of wood doweling, two nails and a size of sturdy twine, in response to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

4. A ball. A number of video games that may be performed on foot could be performed whereas skating. With a ball, you possibly can play video games like “hot potato” or dodgeball. Just make certain to offer different gamers area and watch out. Establishing a couple of floor guidelines for security is all the time a good suggestion. For instance, it’s vital to determine that shoving and tripping is grounds for disqualification.

5. A thermos stuffed with sizzling chocolate, apple cider, espresso or tea. Often when individuals are energetic outside within the winter, they don’t really feel as thirsty as they’d on a sizzling summer season day. However, one might argue that it’s much more vital that you simply keep hydrated whereas exercising within the winter than in the summertime as a result of staying hydrated helps circulation, which in flip helps you keep heat.