Figure Skating Reflective/Universal Paragraph Article Analysis

 Reflective Paragraph (With first person pronouns/connections)

After reading the article entitled, “Once, Ice Skates Weren't for Jumps and Twirls, They Were for Getting Around,” I have gained new insights and understandings about how ice & ice skating was utilized back in the day (with the exception of being a sport). According to the article, in the past, ice skates were used as a way of transportation and not just a sport or for fun. Personally, I find this extremely shocking, as I am an ice skater myself, and trying to imagine ice skates like a car is pretty difficult. However, I am glad that the people who lived then decided to use their natural weather & surroundings as an advantage, using their frozen lakes as a way to get around is much more environmental friendly. The article also mentions the differences & recent year changes with ice skates, and how much they have shifted to help skaters. Around the 12-15th century, ice skates were made out of animal bones, as they were cheaper than other materials, hence the high demand (skating was a way of transportation). Over the years, however, skates have slowly started to upgrade and turn into more sport-focused equipment. From animal bones, they have shifted into metal & steels, leather, and other more up-to-date materials. Even I have seen little changes comparing my first pair of skates and the pair I currently have, the difference in the amount of time is pretty crazy. To conclude, the article has taught me a good amount about ice skates back in the day, and how they have impacted & changed over the years.

Universal Themes (Change; no first person pronouns)

Over time, changes occur, both good and bad. According to the article, “Since the 15th century, however, skates have gained new baubles, innovations and overall designs meant to improve more than speed.” Back in the 15-18th countries, ice skates were made out of animal bones with the purpose of a more environmentally friendly way of transportation. As time went on and ice skating became more popular, it started to shift from a transportation system to a competitive sport. This also changed the skates and how they were made. For sports, more protection and better materials are needed in order to support the athlete. Animal bones slowly shifted into metal and leather, and the sport of figure skating started to develop. Unfortunately, some people are taking skates a little too seriously, giving the skates too much support that it is not possible to bend or move the ankle. As time slowly progresses, changes happen, whether humans like it or not. New generations, habits, and even people are slowly being formed.