Romantic and exciting, ice skating continues to draw fans — more than 9.5 million in 2021.
If you are planning to get out on the ice, remember that while ice skating is fun, falling is part of the sport. And those falls can hurt — in 2018, ice skating-related injuries topped 50,000, according to the National Institutes of health. Bruises and knee injuries are most common injuries, say orthopedic surgeons.
Skaters caution that if you have only skated on pond ice, you will still be a beginner on commercial ice, which is smoother and slicker than a frozen pond. Start carefully.
Here's some advice to skate safely:
* Wear skates that fit well. Lace them tightly and don't let the loose ends dangle — tuck them in.
* Don't wear baggy clothing. Nicely fitted light sweaters and jackets will work.
* Get skates for your kids that fit now so they will have ankle support.
* Warm up before and after skating.
* If you're just learning, take a lesson. It's important to know how to fall on the ice. One way: if you feel yourself falling, drop down on one knee, then the other,and break the fall with your hands.
* Inside or out, drink water to stay hydrated.
* Skate with a friend or in a group.