For newcomers to figure skating who want to reduce the risk of injuries on the ice, expert tips come from Sportmaster PRO professional Alexander Goldin, shared in a candid discussion with socialbites.ca.
Begin every session with a solid warm-up lasting about 15 to 20 minutes. A gradual start matters: avoid charging straight to the center of the rink. Instead, ease into skating near the boards or in areas with fewer skaters to wake up muscles and joints gently.
Partner with an instructor or a skater who is confident on the ice when you start. When someone trains alone, there is a higher chance of repeating improper habits. Mistakes become ingrained, and unlearning them can be tougher than building the right technique from the outset. A coach guides how to set goals, monitors progress, and provides constant feedback to keep skills aligned with safety and performance goals.
The coach’s role is not just instruction; it is a strategy partner who helps map out milestones, drills, and safety checks. This steady guidance ensures beginners learn to glide, stop, and maneuver with control, reducing the likelihood of falls and injuries as skills advance.
For equipment choices, the expert recommends selecting the right level of footwear for the activity. For regular public skating, toothless skates or fitness skates are sensible options that balance support and ease of use. For amateur figure skating, semi-professional or professional skates with boots crafted from genuine leather paired with a high-quality blade provide the best combination of support, stability, and performance on the ice.
Prices for skates have risen noticeably, according to the former hockey player. This trend underscores the importance of choosing equipment that matches the skater’s level, frequency, and comfort. Investing wisely in proper footwear and blades pays off in smoother strides, better edge control, and fewer injuries as skating sessions lengthen and intensify.