Where to ice skate near Dayton, Ohio

Whether it’s holding your child’s hand as they take their first wobbly steps on the ice or gliding effortlessly around the rink solo, ice skating is good for the body and soul.

“We have music playing and people just have a really good time,” said Tyler Poe, manager at South Metro Sports. “It’s awesome to get people out of the house to have fun and get some exercise.”

Skating provides a full-body workout, especially effective for the core and lower body. It can help improve both flexibility and balance. Skating can also be a major mood booster and provide much-needed stress relief.

ExploreWINTER FUN: Mad River Mountain open for skiing, snowboarding

And nothing says winter quite like lacing up a pair of skates and taking a spin around the rink with family or friends. But — like most other things — COVID-19 has impacted the ice skating community, so much so that Five Rivers MetroParks recently announced that the MetroParks Ice Rink at RiverScape will remain closed for the entire 2020-21 skating season.

Not to fear, there are still plenty of skating opportunities in the area with indoor rinks in Centerville, Kettering, Troy and Springfield. All of the facilities have open skating opportunities, although there likely will be some noticeable changes.

Capacity is a major issue that has been addressed with significantly reduced numbers of skaters permitted in facilities. The Kettering Ice Arena recommends advance online reservations, although walk-ins are accepted on the rare occasions when a session isn’t full.

“When an open-skate session fills up the same day you post it online, you know it’s a popular activity,” said Tony Habart, Kettering Ice Arena manager. “People are tired of being home and this is a place they feel safe.”

ExploreWORTH THE DRIVE: Glow tubing and more now open at Snow Trails

With limited capacity, skaters can more easily maintain social distancing, but mask requirements are still in place. Rinks have also implemented increased sanitizing routines for rental skates as well as high-touch surfaces.

“I take a lot of pride in making it a fun and safe experience for everyone who walks in the door,” Poe said.

Ready to give it a try?