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How to Start Curling
A practical guide for complete beginners — from finding a club to stepping on the ice for the first time.
Find a Club Near You
The easiest first step is finding a curling club in your area. Most clubs offer learn-to-curl (LTC) programs — typically a 1–2 hour introduction session where you learn the basics with an instructor.
LTC sessions are usually inexpensive ($10–30) and require no prior experience or equipment. The club provides everything you need.
Browse Clubs →What to Wear
The ice is cold — dress in layers. You'll be moving enough to stay warm, but you'll feel the chill between shots.
- ✓Pants with stretch — you'll be in the hack (a rubber block) and lunging forward; jeans restrict movement
- ✓Layers on top — a fleece or light jacket over a base layer works well
- ✓Clean, flat-soled shoes — for your first session. The club will provide a slider that slips over one foot
- ✓Gloves — optional but nice; the stone is cold and the broom handle can be tough on bare hands
What Happens in an LTC Session
A typical learn-to-curl session runs about 90 minutes and covers:
Introduction & safety
How to walk on ice, how to fall safely, basic rules of the game
Delivery practice
Getting into the hack, sliding out, releasing the stone — you'll throw real rocks
Sweeping basics
How to hold a broom, when to sweep, and how hard to push
A short practice game
Usually 2–3 ends so you can try everything together
Joining a League
After your LTC session, many clubs offer a beginner or recreational league where you play weekly with other new curlers. This is the fastest way to improve and meet people.
Most clubs run leagues on weekday evenings and weekend mornings. League fees typically range from $200–$600 per season depending on your location and the number of games.
Don't worry about being good enough — beginner leagues are explicitly for people still learning. Everyone there is in the same boat.
Tips for Your First Session
- →Arrive 10 minutes early to get your slider and gripper sorted, and to meet your instructor
- →Don't be afraid to ask questions — instructors love teaching the game
- →The delivery (throwing the stone) feels awkward at first — everyone's been there
- →Stay for the social afterwards if you can — curling clubs are known for their post-game camaraderie
- →One session rarely is enough to feel comfortable — sign up for the beginner league to really lock it in
Find a Club With a Learn-to-Curl Program
Search by city or province to find the closest option to you.