Learn About Speed Skating:
Getting started

Skating is for EVERYONE, regardless of age. Speed Skating Canada, its Provincial/Territorial Branches and each of their clubs would like to invite you to try speed skating. Please contact the club in your area for a copy of their ice availability schedule for your trial speed skating sessions. Clubs may also have an Open House skate session which is a one-time free trial and demonstration or other trail sessions. Please take a moment to read through the FAQ's for additional information.

1. Q. How can I become involved in speed skating?
   A. The sport of speed skating requires a broad volunteer base to support local clubs, provincial and territorial branches as well as the national sport organization in the management and administration of the sport, as well as to coach, to officiate and to organize various events, activities and competitions. As a skater/athlete, the sport is open to all interested community members, regardless of age or ability, who want to learn to skate, skate for enjoyment, and/or to race on skates. The first step to becoming involved in speed skating is to contact your nearest local speed skating club.
   
   
2. Q. How do I join a speed skating club?
   A. Speed Skating Canada is made up of 13 Branches who are the provincial/territorial bodies who govern speed skating in their region. Please follow this link to our club finder and contact the club nearest you.
   
   
3. Q. How much does it cost to get involved in speed skating?
   
When one joins a speed skating club there is a registration fee which will vary depending on their affiliation with their community centre, ice rental fess and any additional costs the club may be faced with. Club registration fees also include membership fees to become a member of the provincial/territorial Branch and of Speed Skating Canada. Registration fees can be discussed with the local club in your area.


4. Q. What kind of equipment do I need?
   A. Equipment needs vary, depending on the age and the ability of the individual. Young children are encouraged to begin with hockey skates. This allows freedom of mobility so that a strong skating foundation can be built. As the child ages and their skating abilities become more developed, speed skates are introduced. Clothing requirements are minimal as the speed skating "skin suit" is introduced in conjunction with formal racing. A simple sweat suit will suffice. Helmets are a must as well as knee pads, shin guards, neck guard, and cut resistant gloves.
   
   
5. Q. Can I rent equipment at the club?
   A. Our recommendation would be to contact your local club to determine if they have equipment for rent or if they could provide information of a local club that does rent equipment.
   
   
6. Q. How old do you have to be to start the sport of speed skating?
   A. The initial category of a young skater is 0-6 years of age. Because all children are different, talk to your local speed skating club's coach for input as to when it would be appropriate for your child should start.
   
   
7. Q. How long is the speed skating season?
   A. Ice availability varies from one community to another however typically the speed skating season is between September/October to the end of March.
   
   
8. Q. Is there any travel involved?
   A. Travel is minimal in the formative years of skill development. Many clubs host local events which are focused on fun and team philosophies. Travel increases later in the skater's development and may start in the early teen years.
   
   
9. Q. What is the weekly time commitment?
   A. On average, clubs operate with 2 - 1 hour sessions OR 2 -1 ½ hour sessions. Contact your club for further information. Fun/ability events maybe held within a club's regular ice time or during a pre-arranged weekend.
   
   
10. Q. What kind of coaches does speed skating have?
    A. All clubs must have certified coaches in place. The coaches must meet the coaching requirements established by Speed Skating Canada.
    
    
11. Q. Do we encourage participation in activities or sports outside of speed skating?
    A. Absolutely! In order for an individual to be a successful speed skater, Speed Skating Canada supports and encourages participation in other sports and activities.
    
    
12. Q. Can I start a club in my area?
    A. You sure can. You are encouraged to work with your local branch as they will be able to assist in providing support and resource material. Speed Skating Canada also has a Club Start-Up Manual, as well as grants available for new clubs. Link Club Start Up Manual