3. Learning to Glide: The First Step to Skating

Once you feel comfortable standing on skates, it’s time to start moving.

The March-and-Glide Method

1. Begin by marching in place to get used to the ice.
2. Start moving forward with small marching steps, gradually extending each step into a glide.
3. Keep your knees bent and push off gently with one foot at a time.
4. As you gain confidence, try gliding on one foot for a second before switching to the other foot.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

• Don’t step too wide—this can make you lose balance.
• Keep your feet moving—standing still for too long can make balancing harder.
• Don’t lean too far back—this increases the risk of falling.