Ice Skating in Gorham

Enjoy the Winter; Get Some Fresh Air & Exercise

I don’t remember how my dad made the skating rink in our backyard, but he did. I don’t remember the act of skating as a child, but I did. However, I DO remember my skates, icy blue with gray faux trim and silver flecked sparkling laces. You know me, I’m all about fashion. I also remember as children, my siblings, neighbors and I spent every moment we could outside, even in winter’s frigid temps, the crisp cold air making our cheeks rosy red. Winter was all about the 4 S’s …. sledding, snowman, snowballs, and skating.

It’s been awhile since I’ve built a snowman or gone sledding and even longer since I’ve been on the ice, but I am ready to lace up my skates. I read an article that discussed how skating is especially great for balancing, which is something we need to be more aware of as we age. The process of skating helps to keep our equilibrium sharp and our balance fine tuned. And I need all the help I can get ….lol.

There is no shortage of places that I can go to skate locally with 3 being found right in Gorham. Thank you to the Gorham Recreation department for offering and maintaining these sites free of charge for all to use. I have been to 2 that are both on main street and have enjoyed watching all levels of skating talent from the little ones just learning to skate to those more professional skaters effortlessly gliding across the ice. Alas, my skating prowess is closer to that of the little ones struggling to stay upright, but I am having fun and getting fresh air.

For those of you wanting to get started, here are a few tips:

• Commit to a good quality pair of skates that fit snugly.

• Loosen up. Falling is a real concern, so remember to bend your knees. With a little give in your legs, you are closer to the ground and can shift your balance more easily.

• Use your whole body. Skating calls on using your upper torso, arms, and shoulders to shift your weight and steer.

• Look forward, not down. Where your head looks, your body follows.

• Most importantly ….. have FUN!