Whenever I watch Olympic speed skaters skate, I’m always mesmerized by how graceful they look while going upwards of 35 miles per hour – or faster. But, to be entirely honest, I always thought: if I can skate, I can definitely speed skate.
Oh man, I was ever so humbled when I stepped onto the ice with those long bladed skates on.
Thankfully, the great coaches at the Toronto Speed Skating Club helped me catch my footing and, by the end of the hour, learn how to gain some speed and almost turn properly.
It’s a whole different game learning to balance on these skates, perfect your form and learn the different skills required to excel at this sport – or any sport for that manner. But, it was one of the most fun hours I’ve had in a long time.
Learning a new skill – whether as a hobby or otherwise – is always a rewarding new challenge and something I love doing both solo and with friends.
Keep reading to find out the clubs where you can learn the different Winter Olympic sports in and around Toronto.
Speed Skating
Toronto Speed Skating Club
The Toronto Speed Skating Club offers an Intro to Speed Skating program. Individuals who have completed an Intro to Speed Skate session will be invited to join the club and participate in their weekly practices for the remainder of the season.
What you’ll need
- Helmet (bike or hockey)
- Gloves (ideally cut proof; leather or hockey gloves work)
- Neck guard (bib style)
- Knee pads (inline skating or volleyball)
- Shin guards (soccer style and preferably without the under-foot strap)
- Clear lens eye protection, with a strap (recommended)
- Skates (rentals available)
Where
Ford Performance Centre, Rink 1 at 400 Kipling Ave., Etobicoke
Curling
Leaside Curling Club
The Leaside Curling Club offers 2 Learn to Curl clinics each spring, in addition to their different league memberships, which offer open ice sessions and more.
What you’ll need
- Hat
- Stretchy jacket or sweater
- Stretchy pants (jeans are not recommended)
- Leather or synthetic Gloves or Mitts (wool is not recommended)
- Rubber sole shoes or running shoes (no outdoor shoes allowed on the ice)
Where
Leaside Curling Club, 1075 Millwood Rd., Toronto
Biathlon
Hardwood Ski and Bike
Hardwood Ski and Bike offers beginner classes and adult programs for those who want to learn to the dual skills of shooting and skiing.
What you’ll need
- Cross country Skate Skis and poles (rentals available)
- Biathlon rifle with harness, ammunition and case (rentals available/ provided with lessons)
- Cross country eye goggles (rentals available)
- Special biathlon gloves which securely grip the firearm and with trigger sensitive finger parts (rentals available)
- Lycra wear and ski waxes (recommended)
Where
Hardwood Ski and Bike, 402 Old Barrie Rd. W., Oro-Medonte
Cross-Country Skiing
High Park Ski Club
High Park Ski Club is a cross-country skiing school offering free classic and skate ski lessons for members. With the membership, you’ll be able to explore snowy trails and serene landscapes.
What you’ll need
- Cross country skis and poles [rentals available]
- Warm winter clothing [weatherproof jackets and snow pants recommended]
- Cross country eye goggles [recommended, rentals available]
- Thermal Wear [recommended]
Where
High Park Ski Club, 2100 Bloor St. W, #6-149, Toronto
