What is Short Track Speedskating?

Short track speedskating is a form of competitive ice skating.  Skaters race on an oval ice track with a circumference of 111 m.  Short track speedskating differs greatly from its long track cousin.  For example, skaters race pack-style (4-6 skaters at a time.) Also, short track distances vary considerably from those skated in long track. Competitive short track requires an international-sized hockey rink just like the Olympic rink here at RMU Island Sports Center. Short track speedskating provides wonderful cardiovascular, aerobic, muscular and core strengthening. It also provides an excellent cross-training medium for inline skaters, cyclists and hockey players.

Speedskating is a great sport for everyone! Some skate because they want to race and compete, while others skate just for fun and fitness. Our Learn to Speedskate Program accommodates skaters of all ages and abilities.

ALL ARE WELCOME!!

2010 Speedskating Academy Programs
RMU Learn to Speedskate Program - September - May
The purpose of the Learn to Speedskate Program is to introduce skaters to short track speedskating. Skaters will be familiarized with the basic form, arm swing, on-ice etiquette and off-ice dry land techniques needed to progress to the developmental program. There is a place for everyone in our Learn to Speedskate Program.

Prerequisite: In order to participate in the RMU Learn to Speedskate Program, skaters must be at least 6 years of age, possess forward skating skills and have completed a semester in RMU ISC’s Learn to Skate Level 1 group class. Please see Skating School brochure for class details and schedule, or contact Beth Sutton, skating director, at 412-397-4469 for additional information.

RMU Speedskating Development Program - October - mid-March
The purpose of the RMU Speedskating Development Program is to transition beginning skaters into the intermediate ranks of competitive short track speedskating. Skaters will be introduced to the starting position, pace line, more specific form technique and the advanced stroke needed to achieve greater speed and explosiveness. Racing strategies will be introduced.

Prerequisite: In order to participate in the RMU Speedskating Developmental Program, skaters must be at least 6 years of age, possess forward skating skills and have completed a semester in RMU ISC’s Learn to Speedskate Program.

RMU Competitive Speedskating Program - September - August
The purpose of the RMU Competitive Speedskating Program is to develop the intermediate/advanced speedskaters through sprint and speed drills, intervals, laps and pivoting/cornering exercises. Skaters at this level will continue advanced racing strategies and techniques.

Prerequisite: In order to participate in the RMU Competitive Speedskating Program, skaters will be required to have approval from the Speedskating Coach.

Competitive speedskating dry-land training schedule will be listed on the Clubwebsite calendar: ww.pittsburghspeedskating.org.

Speedskates
Rental speed skates are available for those enrolled in the Learn to Speedskate and Speedskating Development program.  Competitive Speeskaters must have their own speedskates.