Ice skating has become a popular sport loved by many for its art, grace and speed. It is unknown to many that this activity now popular in the Winter Olympic Games and other international competitions actually began as a necessary means of transportation across frozen waters during winter. For some it is believed that the sport originated in the Netherlands since early development of the ice skates hailed the region as well but it is also said that it was about 3000 years B.C. when ice skating, or rather gliding through the ice, in its earliest form began. Evidence was found at the bottom of a lake in Switzerland dating back to that time and described as primitive ice skates made of sharpened and flattened animal bones attached or tied to the bottom side of shoes. This allowed individuals to glide on top of frozen lakes and rivers as necessary alternatives to moving around or travelling.
Much later, ice skates were improved with the use of wooden platforms with flat iron bottom runners. This was invented by the Dutch around the 13th or 14th century and used with poles to allow skaters to move around or be propelled. Eventually the blades were replaced with double edged iron blades that could cut through the ice and allow for a swifter and smoother movement. This eliminated the use of poles and gave the skater the ability to push and glide with his feet. With the use of better ice skates, many fell for the sport and it became a popular activity for people from all classes. In other places, however, ice skating was limited to the upper classes. Today many individuals enjoy ice skating as a form of recreation, travelling and in various sports. Ice skates have also improved to enhance movement having been made lighter and stronger and are now available for anybody from all ages and walks of life.
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