There was a lot of hype when the first rink, they call it the Solar Ice Rink, no idea why, was opened in Nairobi a couple of years ago. I had such high hopes and excitement, but I think something else came up and I neglected my urge to go then. About two weeks ago, it was suggested as a birthday plot for M and finally I got the chance to ACTUALLY go to the rink. I was both excited and nervous; I actually realized I have that fear of how I will perform in new activities. I discovered quite recently that I rarely try new things, I prefer eating the foods I am used to, wearing cool colors, maintaining the same hair styles etc, and I want to come out of my comfort zone and enjoy life. Anyway, I digress, so we got there and got the cool blue shoes and we were ready to start.
Oh dear, even standing straight was tricky as we started. I held on to the sort of fence (due to lack of a better word) that surrounds the rink and went along to attempt movement. It was hard at first, and even while holding onto it I fell for the first time. It was exciting, well really cold on my behind, but exciting nonetheless. On this day, the crew was feeling daring and everyone in their own way was trying it out. The pro, Mr. G, gave us few tit bits on how to do it and it actually made it more exciting. Even the birthday boy, tried it out.
As I got more relaxed, I realized it was actually a activity of calculations, learning when to slightly bend forward to avoid falling, standing at a certain angle to control movement and many other geeky cool tricks. The work out involved was actually what made me even more excited. Seeing as I am slowly, but surely, ensuring I take work out seriously as opposed to just talking, it actually made me feel certain muscles were actively used, and it was something fun as opposed to running.
By the end of the hour, I could actually move without holding frantically onto the fence. I have evidence.
I did not get to go to the centre of the rink, but I guess that means that I am surely going back. Ice skating in Nairobi is at the Panari Sky Centre for only 700 Kenyan shillings. This is for one hour. It takes place every alternating hour as they use the next hour to work on the ice (don’t know exactly what they do).
You should try it out some time!