Just because the holidays are over, who says we can’t have fun? This past week I decided to try out some of Jersey City’s ice skating venues, Charlie Heger Ice Rink in Pershing Field, and Newport Skates in downtown JC.

I started my ice skating journey in Newport Skates in 30-degree weather. It was freezing outside! However, after a few laps, I was nearly sweating. This rink is a great start for children who are just learning how to ice skate, as it is the perfect size for families and kids. Newport Skates also offers private lessons for the novice learner at an affordable price. Newport Skates is located near Market Village, a residential area in the Newport area which gives the rink a more intimate feel. You can even catch a glimpse of the skyline! I caught a peek of the Freedom Tower while skating. Newport residents also receive half price admission with proof of residential ID card.

A few days later, I went to Pershing Field to Charlie Heger Ice Rink. This rink was much larger, a perfect size for hockey games. A popular hangout spot, a few local Jersey City Heights residents were enjoying a night out with friends, family, and dates. Charlie Heger Ice Rink also offers Learn to Skate lessons for children and adults. The best part is, the sessions are FREE with paid entry price, which is an extremely affordable rate. This rink is a great place to practice ice skating skills, I even saw a brother and sister practicing their figure skating and hockey moves!

Ice skating offers many fitness benefits. Along with improving balance and coordination, ice skating strengthens leg muscles, which can improve other fitness activities such as running or yoga. Ice skating also improves joint flexibility, since the activity focuses on quick foot movements. Over time, the gliding and synchronized movement of legs enhance flexibility in the joints. Not to mention ice skating is a great stress reliever! Gliding on the ice has the ability to feel like you’re flying, which can relax the mind. It’s a great way to have some fun and work in your cardio at the same time!

After having some fun ice skating, we should also remember important ways to give back this winter. This past November, Mayor Fulop launched an amazing program called “JC Shovels,” a volunteer initiative that helps senior citizens and those with disabilities who need assistance shoveling. The program is run by the Department of Public Works and AmeriCorps to offer assistance after winter storms.

The program is designed to offer convenience for volunteers and senior citizens. A roster of volunteers will be collected along with their location. Volunteers will be assigned a nearby location to help shovel driveways, walkways, and sidewalks near their neighborhood. This helps the volunteer provide assistance without having to travel far from their home. Shovels and rock salt will be provided for volunteers.

Newport Skates:

http://www.newportrentalsnj.com/LANDING/newportskates/

Charlie Heger Ice Rink:

http://cityofjerseycity.com/recreation.aspx?id=3872

JC Shovels:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1nU724nosXy0QerKusjiiKRi7GJQ0dDaZDj1Xdi08qv8/viewform?c=0&w=1