golfing- it isn't just for grownups

If you didn't learn how to ice skate as a child, there's no reason that you can't take up the hobby as an adult. Whether you join a class geared toward adults or you seek private instruction, you'll soon be gliding around the arena and enjoying a perfect way to keep active. Before you begin lessons, it can be helpful to understand some simple tips that will help you stay upright—after all, falling as a child might not seem like a big deal, but adults don't typically want to fall. Here are some tips to remember as you begin your ice skating classes.

Keep Your Weight Evenly Distributed

You'll have an easier time staying upright on your skates when you ensure that your weight is evenly distributed. When you lean too far backward, for example, your skates can slip forward and leave you on your backside. Similarly, leaning too far forward can result in your skates slipping out from under you and causing you to crash onto your knees. You can help to keep your weight evenly distributed by keeping your knees slightly bent and ensuring that your head and shoulders are roughly above your feet.

Have Your Skates Professionally Sharpened

Sharp skates make it easier to learn how to skate. Dull skates, meanwhile, make it tough to glide—this can result in you picking up your feet more than you should, which can affect your balance and result in a fall. When you buy skates, they're not typically sharp enough to use properly, so make sure that you have them sharpened. It's not always a good idea to get them sharpened at a general merchandise store, even if skates are sold there. The person operating the machine is likely not an expert, which can result in skates that are improperly sharpened. Even if it costs a few dollars more, you'll get a better result from going to a specialty skate shop.

Look in the Distance

When you're learning to drive a car, it's generally emphasized that you should fix your focus well down the road, rather than directly in front of you. The same premise holds true when you're learning to ice skate. By looking in the distance, you'll be able to see what else is going on around the arena. If you're simply looking a few feet in front of you, you may not have enough time to avoid someone skating near you, and a collision could occur.