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There are two main ways to stop on ice skates. The “snowplow stop” is a beginner technique that will get the job done, even if it isn’t always graceful. The more advanced “hockey stop” requires balance and finesse, but it is much quicker and smoother than the snowplow if executed properly. Read on to learn how to stop on ice skates! Try using the “T” stop at first. This is usually touted as the easiest way for pure beginners to learn how to stop on ice skates. Begin by skating slowly forward, on a straightaway, with no obstacles or turns before you.

As you glide, turn one skate at a 45 degree angle. Let it hang behind the other skate to create friction. Bring the dragging skate up into the instep of the leading skate. Make sure to keep your dragging skate in contact with the ice as you do this. You may need to apply some pressure. Shift your body weight to the dragging skate. Lean back slightly, and tip your weight into the direction you’re coming from.

Keep your shoulders straight, pointing forward. Let your arms hang at your sides. Keep your weight on the rear foot, creating friction, until you slowly come to a stop. Try pointing your toes to stop. This beginner technique is sometimes called the “snowplow stop” because it relies more upon angle and stability than finesse.

It is less graceful than the “hockey stop,” but it will slow you down in a pinch. Skate forward on a straightaway, with no big turns coming up. Let yourself glide at a comfortable pace, and wait to stop until you are already slowing down. As you improve, you can practice stopping at faster and faster speeds. If you feel out of control: don’t panic, and don’t try to stop right away. Wait until you slow down a bit before you try to stop. When you are ready to stop, point both of your toe picks inward.

Your feet should form an upside-down “V. Hold your feet at a steady angle as you slow down. The friction of the skates against the ice will gradually bring you to stop. Don’t push your feet in toward each other, or you risk twisting your ankle. Work your way up to the hockey stop. As you build confidence and skill, you can learn to stop harder, at greater speeds. This is the technique that ice hockey players and other professional ice skaters use.