US Figure Skating
      
TECHNICAL INFORMATION | RULEBOOK | JOIN NOW! | LEARN TO SKATE | SITE MAP
News Athletes Events / Results Clubs Programs SKATING Magazine About U.S. Online Store Contact U.S.
Programs
Special Olympics/Therapeutic

Contact

Susi Wehrli-McLaughlin
Senior Director of Membership
P: 719.228.3423
F: 719.635.9548
swehrli@usfigureskating.org

The current emphasis on the importance of physical fitness has focused attention on healthful exercise for everyone, including those who are mentally and/or physically challenged. Medical, sports professionals and skaters have suggested that supervised ice skating is a beneficial physical activity for providing healthy exercise and enjoyment for people with many different needs.

Because skating requires an erect posture and a certain measure of control, participation in the sport has been found to contribute to better breathing, improved circulation and balance, better posture and overall strength. Challenged skaters tend to become more outgoing as they overcome their restrictions through pleasant recreation. Skating provided opportunities to meet new friends with a common interest and to identify with a group. The participants have fun as they develop greater confidence and self-esteem. The skills that a challenged skater develops may open new doors in other spheres of life, providing opportunities for greater success in life.

Benefits of Skating

Since ice skating is an individual sport, skaters can progress at their own rate according to their ability. Skating is also a safe sport relative to many others. Finally, skating can be a life-long activity, done individually or with family and friends.

Volunteers with programs for the mentally or physically challenged receive satisfaction from helping a challenged and possibly insecure person develop new abilities and improved self-esteem.

Try skating ... it does a body good!


About Special Olympics Special Olympics Competitions Special Olympics Tests Manuals and Forms News Other Related Links For more information, go to the Special Olympics Committee site.


U.S. Figure Skating Sponsors

U.S. Figure Skating Partners
 
 
U.S. Figure Skating Suppliers
United Hilton
 
U.S. Figure Skating Licensees
Ice Network