Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about the Charlottetown Curling Club and the game of curling
1. How long is the curling season?
Our season typically starts in the first or second week of October, and runs until mid-April.
2. What equipment do I need to play?
Curling is a very economical winter sport that requires very little equipment. If you’re just getting started, all that you will require is a clean pair of indoor-only footwear (soft sole is best), clothing that will keep you warm enough and allow you to bend and stretch freely, and a slider to help you glide out of the hack (sliders can be borrowed from the club). As you become more familiar with the game, you may wish to purchase a pair of curling shoes and a curling broom.
3. How cold is it on the ice? How warmly should I dress?
Air temperatures on the ice surface typically range from a few degrees above freezing to a few degrees below. Most players are comfortable in a long sleeved shirt and a light spring or fall jacket. We suggest dressing in layers to allow you to maintain a comfortable body temperature throughout your game.
4. Is it good exercise?
Curling is great exercise! The curling sheet is approximately 150 feet long. During a typical 8-end game, a sweeper will travel up and down it nearly 50 times, for a total distance of over 2.5 miles. Half of that time will be spent sweeping the rock, which provides a great anaerobic workout for your arms and upper body. It’s also great exercise for your core muscles, which provide balance, not to mention great fun!
5. What if I have balance or mobility issues? Can I still play?
Curling is a sport that accomodates people of all skills and abilities, whether it be a physical or mental disability, a visual impairment, or simply a lack of mobility or flexibility. Our club is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible at this time, but those with balance or mobility issues may make use of a delivery stick or a stabilizing device to deliver their stones, as indeed many able-bodied players also do.
