Frequently Asked Questions

What is short track speed skating?

Short track speed skating is racing on ice on a 111m track in an indoor arena. It is tactical and requires good technique, strength and endurance. Short track is pack-style racing among groups of 4 to 6 skaters. A standard meet will have 4 sets of races at different distances which vary depending on the ages of the skaters.

Majority of speed skaters in Canada start with short track speed skating before getting into long track speed skating.

What is long track speed skating?

Long track speed skating is raced on a 400 meter track. It is tactical (dependant on the distance and pace) and requires good technique, strength and endurance. Long track can be pack style (mass start . multiple skaters) or Olympic style (two skaters on the track). A standard meet will consist of sets of races at different distances which vary depending on the ages of the skaters.

What is the Ontario Speed Skating Association?

The Ontario Speed Skating Association (OSSA) is the provincial sport body which oversees the development of speed skaters of all ages. OSSA offers support in the development of coaches, officials, clubs and membership with the goal of placing skaters on the National Teams.

OSSA is affiliated with Speed Skating Canada (SSC) . the national sport body. SSC offers opportunities to speed skaters to perform at the high performance and national team levels.

The long and short of it is...ice speed skating is a sport for all ages and skill levels, from the beginning novice through Olympic and world class speed skaters. Whether you choose entry level skating, are looking for a recreational experience or a viable cross training alternative, or want a chance at the Olympic rings, speed skating offers unique developmental opportunities for athletic involvement and success.

Who can skate?

Anyone can speed skate. Our members are from 7 to 70+ years old, from beginner ability up to the national level and Olympic Speed Skating Teams. . OSSA members vary from recreation skaters who skate for fun and fitness to competitive skaters. You get to choose when you are ready to enter your first race / meet; check with the club coach on how to sign up for your first meet. Cyclists, runners and inline skaters use short track for cross training.

What equipment do I need for speed skating?

All speed skaters must have:
-Speed Skates .i.e. boots, blades (these may be available through our club)
-Helmet (hockey, bicycle or inline helmet allowed for practices). Mandatory racing requirement is to have a speed skating ISU certified helmet (LAS or LG) for the short track meets.
-Cut resistant gloves (no knit gloves)
-Long-sleeved shirt or jacket
-Neck guard
-Knee pads
-Shin pads
Information on the required equipment can be found on the OSSA website or you can ask your local club for advice.

What clothes should I wear?

Skinsuits, tights or sweats with long-sleeved shirts, and a warm-up jacket. The skater should wear clothing that is form fitting, as the skater would like to be as aero dynamic as possible; rather than skating with baggy clothes which can slow you down by acting as a .parachute. (wind drag).