How to Ice Skate Backwards

One of the mysteries of ice skating is how to propel yourself backwards. Pros can do it effortlessly but beginners find the maneuver challenging. Positioning is the key to a graceful turn across the ice.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Assume the right stance to stay upright. You may feel like you're going to fall backwards, but that's all right. Chin up and bend your knees slightly.
2. Prevent Bambi legs. Some beginning skaters start the backwards skating motion with their feet too far apart. Position your skates so they are closer than the width of your shoulders.
3. Get going backwards by making a curvy motion with your skates. Pretend you're drawing a picture of a curvy line with your skate. You should be moving now.
4. Glide with one foot, and stroke with the other. Even if you just move a half-inch, that's progress.
5. Don't forget to look behind you. You want to see where you're going, not where you've been.

Tips & Warnings

• Skate with a friend. Having someone next to you (especially an experienced skater) to hang onto and keep you steady is a good idea.
• Expect to get some bumps and bruises. A helmet may not be a bad idea.