Ice Skating
Gliding on ice, rink or outdoor.
How to start
Visit a public rink with rented skates. Hold the rail, practise marching on the ice and gliding.
How to progress
Learn stopping and turning in a class.
What the evidence says
Evidence: limited
We found no trials of this particular activity. A 2026 survey of federated artistic skaters described injuries in competitive skaters, who face more demanding jumps and spins than recreational skaters.
Take care: Falls cause wrist and head injuries. Wear a helmet and wrist guards if unsteady.
Sources
12-week starter plan
Visit weekly.
Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.
Add reminders to your calendar
Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.
Calories and weekly minutes
Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 5.5 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.
Tips and common mistakes
Tips
- Hold the rail at first.
- Bend your knees.
- Take a lesson.
Common mistakes
- Leaning back.
- Skating without gloves.
- Poorly fitted skates.
Kit and cost
Low to moderate Approximate UK prices.
- Skate hire (about £3 to £6)
- Gloves and warm clothes
- Rink entry (about £6 to £12)
Frequently asked questions
Is it hard to learn?
The basics take a few visits.
Is it safe?
Falls happen. Gloves and a helmet help.
Is it good exercise?
Yes, moderate.
Good for: Balance Fun & social Heart & fitness
Compare with similar options
| Ice Skating | Snowshoeing | Skiing (Alpine) | Snowboarding | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical session | 60 min × 1/wk | 90 min × 1/wk | 240 min × 1/wk | 240 min × 1/wk |
| Effort | ●●○○○ | ●●○○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ |
| Cost | Low cost | Low cost | High cost | High cost |
| Equipment | Some equipment | Some equipment | Specialist kit | Specialist kit |
| Impact | Medium impact | Low impact | Medium impact | Medium impact |
| Fitness needed | Any level | Any level | Some fitness | Some fitness |
| Evidence | limited | limited | limited | limited |