The very first thing you need to become an ice skater is ice. If you're serious about your goal, seek a source of ice that is handy all year long. Even if you just want to get the hang of it, find your local inside ice rink/arena. If you wait for winter and the frozen lake variety, you won't have much chance to practice. Inside arenas have hand rails. This is important! Call to find out about "open skate times,". You can show up and limp your way around the ice until you feel comfortable letting go and moving your feet. This is the easiest way to start, and will let you know in a hurry if "Becoming an Ice Skater" is really for you. Your own body will be your best guide. Remember to observe the rules of the rink.

Find an ice arena. Check the local phone book, or ask friends. When you track down the arena, call and find out about "open skate" times. This will let you know when the ice is open to the public. Frequently, ice arenas are used by figure skaters for lessons, speed skaters for practice, etc. During these times, the arena is closed to the public. Once you've found out the times, show up early, get in line, pay for admission and head to the skate rental booth. Until you have determined that you're really serious about this, use the rentals. If you find you love it, buy your own skates. Skates should fit snugly and be laced tight. You might have to work a bit to find a pair that fits. Most important, make sure your ankles are well supported. If you need help, ask the rental people (when they have time) to show you how. Sometimes you'll find the "snap down buckle" skates, but typically the lace up kind. Dress warmly and try to have some padding, especially over your bottom because this is what gets bumped in falls most often. Yes, you are going to fall. Don't be afraid of it. Play it smart and work slowly.

As you step out onto the ice, stay close to the handrail. Make sure you become comfortable skating around the ice rink with baby steps before you let go with both hands. The One Foot Glide will be your technique, once you feel confident enough to let go. But stay close to the handrail, even if you are not holding onto it, just in case. People move swiftly in an ice rink, and you can get bumped into. It is not recommended to sign up for ice skating lessons until you have determined that you have developed a real love of ice skating. This may take a few trips to the ice rink. Learning how to ice skate is not a swift process for most. But once you master the basics, it is a wonderful sensation to easily glide on ice.

When you decide that you really like to ice skate, talk to a professional skating instructor at the ice rink. Not all ice skaters become figure skaters. Some become ice hockey players. Others become speed skaters. Different styles of skating require different styles of ice skates. If, for instance, you decide to become join an ice hockey team, you may need to find another ice rink. If ice hockey is available at your favorite rink, ask about the ice hockey tryouts and practice schedules. See if you can arrange for a personal ice skating coach for whatever style of ice skating you choose.