Getting Started

What is speedskating?
Speedskating consists of 4 types of skating: Ice Long Track, Ice Short Track, Inline and Quad. Races are done on an oval track. Here is a bit more information on the types of skating we at the WSSA participate in.
- Ice Long Track is skated on a 400 meter oval (about the size of a high school running track). Most long trackers these days use clap skates to get around. On a clap skate, the boot is attached to the blade at the toe of the boot only, thus creating a clap noise at the end of one's stroke. Common distances skated on a long track are: 500m, 1,000m, 1,500m, 3,000m, 5,000m and 10,000m. There are two designated lanes on a long track. Two skaters race at a time in their own lane, switching lanes on the back stretch. The skater with the fastest time in a particular distance wins. The gear used when skating long track, besides the skates is, a skin suit (pants and a long sleeved shirt will do). Some people starting out prefer gloves, a helmet and knee pads.
- Ice Short Track is skated on a 111 meter oval (hockey rink). There can be anywhere from 2 to 8 skaters racing at the same time. The object of short track is to cross the line first. Time isn't the biggest factor. The skates used for short track are attached at the toe and heel. The blade is bent to the left a little to make the turns and it has what is called a rocker. The blade is shaved a bit towards the front to create a rocking motion to also help get around the turns easier and safer. Common distances skated by short trackers are: 500m, 1,000m, 1,500m 3,000m and 5,000m. Equipment is vital to skating short track. You must have these things on if you would like to step out onto the ice: helmet, neck guard, gloves, knee pads, shin guards and a skin suit (or pants and a long sleeved shirt).

What are the benefits to speedskating?
Get in shape, stay in shape. Many cyclists use speedskating for cross training, and vice-versa.

How can I get started?
If you are a local to northern Utah, great! We have clubs in Kearns, Ogden and Park City. If you are looking to try short track all three clubs offer it. Long track is only available in Kearns.

If you are pretty new to speedskating it is highly recommended that you take the Learn To Speedskate class at the Utah Olympic Oval in Kearns. You will learn the basics of both short and long track along with proper skating etiquette. For more info on the Learn To class contact the Utah Olympic Oval at (801) 968-6825 then 0 to speak with a person.

Call yourself a seasoned skater, then check out the club you'd like to drop in on.