Tag: Blog

  • Safety on the Ice

    Speed skates have long thin blades and accomplished skaters skate at high speeds on the ice. Due to this many measures are put in place to make the sport as safe as possible.

    When you are learning to speed skate you are given pointers as to how to fall to try and minimize potential injuries.

    Our speed skating outfits are made up of a cut resistant Kevlar and have built in padding. We wear helmets and have cut resistant gloves. Although currently not mandatory it is advised to wear safety glasses and ankle guards.

    For both training and racing we have blocks that are set up to define the track. These are made of rubber. We also have mats placed strategically around the barrier to lessen the impact of a potential fall.

  • What Makes Short Track Speed Skating a Great Sport for Kids?

    Short Track Speed Skating is a great sport for children.

    Short Track Speed Skating is a healthy, active sport that is good for allowing children to expend their energy whilst also working on co-ordination and balance skills.  This is great for them physically and mentally.

    Children start in a Learn to Speed Skate class where they learn skating skills as well as technique. They can also start their socialising skating world here, where they learn to be not only competitive but also to be competitive in a friendly environment.  They learn that physical exercise is not only healthy but also good for their mental well being. The coaches are there to provide this environment. This continues on once they join a club, with the coaches and club team mates.  Goals are there for the children to aspire to.

    These goals can be- 

    1. Joining a short track club.
    2. Deciding when they want to enter their first race
    3. Achieving personal best times in different race distances
    4. How fit and strong they would like to be and time frames to achieve this.
    5. Do they want to be a club Champion, Victorian Champion, Australian Champion, World Champion or even an Olympic Champion.
    6. Maybe they will want to do short track just to enjoy, keep a certain fitness level and to enjoy the friendship side.  Life long friendships can be formed with like minded skaters.

    Short Track Speed Skating can show children what they can achieve whilst enjoy learning the technique and the thrill of speed.