Skating

Skating generally signifies gliding over the ice by the aid of a blade of metal, attached to a metal or wooden framework, fastened to the sole of each foot. 1t is also sometimes applied to the Norwegian ski, which enables the wearer to pass over snow, and is much employed in the drill of northern armies. Skating is of very ancient origin, and has for centuries been a favourite pastime in England and Holland. Canada has followed it up warmly, and it is in that colony that the skating-rink originated. The types of skate are many, from the mutton-shank of the ancient London apprentice to the Acme and Austrian skate of the present day. The principle has been applied to the construction of the roller-skate, which is available upon asphalte or other smooth surfaces.