Ice Skating/Adaptive Ice Skating

About

Skating is a sport designed to be enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age or ability. This isn’t an exclusive sport that only a select few can participate in. Instead, it’s a versatile activity that can be enjoyed competitively or recreationally.

The U.S. Figure Skating Adaptive Program is designed to encourage skaters with intellectual or physical disabilities to showcase their skills in competitive or recreational environments. This program offers two different tracks that provide skaters with the opportunity to grow their skills and thrive.

Through learning new skills, developing self-confidence, and encouraging physical fitness, skaters involved in adaptive ice skating will learn valuable life skills that will help them flourish both on and off the ice.

Equipment

Click here for a list of suppliers for adaptive ice skating equipment.

Competition

Adaptive ice skating is a program by U.S. Figure Skating that offers two tracks for people with intellectual or physical challenges to learn to skate. This program involves a variety of modifications to the traditional rules, expectations, and requirements of traditional ice skating programs.

Skaters are allowed to use special equipment to help them skate, and they’re given a different set of protocols to follow, which gives everyone an equal chance at success, regardless of age or ability.

The two tracks involved in adaptive ice skating are the Special Olympics and Skate United track. The Special Olympics track is designed to encourage skaters with intellectual disabilities to excel in skating and demonstrate their skills in competitive and recreational settings. The Skate United track gives those with physical disabilities the opportunity to utilize and showcase their skills in recreational and competitive environments.

Click here for more information.

Learn More

You can take your wheelchair ice skating! Wheelchairs tend to glide on the ice like skates, so it’s an incredibly positive experience for those wishing to get out on the ice in their chair. People using wheelchairs can be independent on the ice, although it’s more common for them to be accompanied by another skater who guides them around the rink.

Skaters who want to use their wheelchairs on the ice will need to make sure the rink they’re visiting is suitable for their needs. You may need to check to see if a rink offers dedicated sessions to people who use wheelchairs and make sure they have ramps where needed.

However, if you use a wheelchair, you’re also welcome to try a variety of adaptive equipment to help you get out on the ice. An ice skating sled is an excellent option for those unable to stand, while something like an adaptive walker would work well for those who are comfortable standing for short periods.

Programs Near You

Ready to try adaptive ice skating? Click here to find a program near you!