Curling for Beginners Guide to Get Started
Curling is a fascinating sport that combines skill, strategy, and teamwork. While its origins lie in medieval Scotland, it has since gained popularity worldwide, particularly in the USA. For many, the sport is intriguing but unfamiliar, making it a perfect challenge for those eager to learn something new. Whether you’re looking to join a curling league or simply want to understand the game better, this guide will give you a comprehensive understanding of curling for beginners.
What is Curling?
Curling is a team sport played on ice where players slide stones (also called “rocks”) toward a target area segmented into concentric circles. The goal is to have your stones closer to the center of the target, known as the “house,” than your opponent’s. Each team has eight stones per end (or round), and the game consists of ten ends.
While it may look like a slower-paced sport compared to others on ice, curling requires intense precision, teamwork, and strategic decision-making. What sets curling apart is the use of brooms to “sweep” the ice, influencing the stone’s speed and direction.
Curling Equipment Essentials
Before you head to the rink, you need the right equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Curling Shoes
Curling shoes are unique because they come with two different soles. The “slider” shoe helps you glide smoothly on the ice, while the “gripper” shoe gives you traction when pushing off.
- Beginner Tip: If you’re new to the sport, you can also use a slider that attaches to a regular shoe, reducing the initial investment.
2. Curling Brooms
Brooms are essential for sweeping the ice to control the speed and direction of the stone. There are two types: brush brooms and push brooms. Brush brooms are more common, especially for beginners.
3. Curling Stones
Stones weigh around 44 pounds and are made from granite. If you’re just starting out, it’s best to practice with a lighter stone until you’re comfortable with the game’s mechanics.
4. Curling Apparel
While you don’t need specialized clothing, it’s important to wear something warm, flexible, and comfortable. Layers are key, as the rink can get cold.
For a detailed look at curling equipment, you can explore more here.
How to Play Curling: The Basics
Curling may seem complicated at first, but once you break it down, it’s quite manageable.
1. The Objective
The main objective is to score more points than your opponent by placing your stones closer to the “button” (center of the house) than your opponent’s stones. Each end is completed when all 16 stones (8 per team) have been thrown.
2. Teams
A curling team consists of four players:
- Lead: Throws the first two stones.
- Second: Throws the third and fourth stones.
- Vice-Skip: Throws the fifth and sixth stones, assists in strategy.
- Skip: The team captain, throws the final two stones and directs the team’s strategy.
3. Sweeping
Sweeping is an essential part of curling. After a stone is thrown, the two sweepers work to manipulate the ice surface in front of the stone. Sweeping decreases the friction between the stone and the ice, allowing it to travel farther and straighter.
- Beginner Tip: Don’t underestimate the importance of sweeping—it can be the difference between scoring points and losing an end.
4. Ends and Scoring
An end consists of each team throwing eight stones. After all the stones are thrown, the team with the stone closest to the button scores. The number of points scored depends on how many of their stones are closer to the center than any of the opposing team’s stones.
Learning the Basic Techniques
To improve your game, focus on these three fundamental curling techniques:
1. Delivery Technique
The delivery is how you release the stone onto the ice. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Start with your feet in the hack (the foothold on the ice).
- Push off with your gripper shoe, keeping your slider shoe behind you.
- Hold the stone in front of you with your body low to the ice.
- Release the stone with a slight spin to give it direction (this is called the “curl”).
2. Sweeping Technique
Sweeping requires a combination of stamina and technique. You must apply pressure to the ice with the broom and sweep fast enough to reduce friction but with control to guide the stone.
- Beginner Tip: Work on your stamina to sweep effectively throughout the entire match.
3. Strategy and Communication
Curling is often referred to as “chess on ice” because of its strategic nature. You’ll need to communicate well with your team, especially your skip, who directs the play.
- Beginner Tip: Always discuss your plan with your team before each throw. Good communication is essential to success in curling.
Essential Tips for Curling Beginners: A Guide to Get Started
If you’re new to curling, here are some essential tips for curling for beginners to help you get started:
- Join a Local Curling Club: The best way to learn curling is to practice with others. Many local clubs offer beginner sessions or leagues. You can find a list of USA Curling clubs here.
- Work on Balance: Balance is crucial in curling, especially when delivering the stone. Spend time working on your balance off the ice to improve your delivery on the ice.
- Focus on Technique First, Not Power: It’s common for beginners to focus on how hard they can throw the stone, but curling is more about technique than strength. Focus on precision and control.
- Learn to Read the Ice: Every curling sheet is different, and ice conditions can change during a game. Take time to study the ice and adjust your delivery and sweeping accordingly.
- Be Patient: Like any sport, curling takes time to master. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results.
The Growing Popularity of Curling in the USA
Curling’s popularity in the USA has been on the rise, especially after the USA Men’s Curling Team’s gold medal win at the 2018 Winter Olympics. This victory sparked a national interest in the sport, leading to a surge in curling clubs and leagues across the country.
The USA Curling organization offers resources and support for those interested in getting involved in the sport. They provide coaching, organize tournaments, and even have programs designed for kids and youth. You can learn more about upcoming USA curling events here.
Getting Involved: How to Join a Curling League
Once you’ve practiced and feel comfortable with the basics, consider joining a local curling league. Most curling clubs in the USA have leagues for players of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced competitors.
Here are the steps to join a league:
- Find a Local Curling Club: Use the USA Curling club directory to find a club near you.
- Attend a “Learn to Curl” Event: Many clubs offer introductory sessions where you can learn the rules and get hands-on experience.
- Sign Up for a League: Most clubs have recreational leagues for beginners where the focus is on fun and learning.
Curling is a dynamic, strategic, and enjoyable sport that is growing in popularity in the USA. Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, a way to stay active, or a team sport that challenges both your mind and body, curling has something to offer. By following the tips in this guide and practicing regularly, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the game.
Remember, the key to success in curling, like any sport, is patience, practice, and a willingness to learn. Join a local curling club, meet new friends, and have fun as you discover this unique and exciting sport.
