Size of rink

Question
Hi Pat,

Do you think there can be pillars or poles in the middle
of the rink if the rink is used for public skating or like
a roller disco? And is there a minimum size the rink should be
for a person to skate comfortably?

Answer
Hi Ozlem,
  Pillars or poles are not very desirable in the middle of the skating floor although I have skated in a rink that had them.  They tend to open you up to law suits if people run into them and get hurt and they are in the way depending on the type of skating that will be done in your rink.

  If you ever plan on having dance skaters skate there for an adult session they would definitely be in the way.  If you ever plan on hosting a skating competition, your rink wouldn't even be considered because of the pillars or posts.

  If you just want a small rink for kids public sessions, then you could get away with it.  If you want to expand  your thoughts for the future such as holding kids and adult classes or  perhaps have an artistic club with coaches who teach......then avoid the pillars or any posts.  This will only hinder any chances of expansion in those area.

  Rinks come in all sizes from 69' x 165' to 100' x 200'.  A good size which seems to be the average is somewhere around 80' x 180'.   

  So, like I said, it just depends on what you want.  You may also check the size of any other rinks in your area.  People tend to flock to the larger rink rather than a smaller one.

Good Luck, I hope this has helped you a little bit