How to get better sleep

Making the crucial transition

Gearing up

1. Ice skates

2. A helmet

3. An extra pair of socks in case the skates are not a perfect fit

4. Functional clothing that allows you freedom to move

5. Cushioned pads to prevent injuries around elbows, knees, hips or tailbone

6. Wrist protectors

For beginners

How to ensure a safe landing?

If you feel yourself starting to fall, bend your knees and dip. Put your hands out to break your fall, clench your fingers into a fist and push your arms out to cushion your body before it hits the ice. Don't stay on the ground for too long, otherwise another skater may run over your fingers or trip over you.

For pros

How to skate backwards?

Keep your chin up and bend your knees slightly. Position your skates so they are closer than the width of your shoulders. Get going backwards by pretending to draw a curve with your skates. Glide with one foot, and stroke with the other. Don't forget to look behind you. You want to see where you're going, not where you've been.