Curling is a team sport played on ice. Two teams take turns sliding heavy, polished granite stones (rocks) towards a target area called the “house”.
Table of contents
Origins & History
Likely originating in Scotland in the 16th century, curling evolved from a game of quoits on ice. The sport gained popularity, spreading to other countries.
Gameplay Basics
The goal is to score points by having stones closest to the center of the house. Players use brooms to sweep the ice in front of the stone, influencing its speed and direction.
Teamwork & Strategy
Curling requires teamwork, strategy, and precision. Teams must plan their shots carefully, considering the position of other stones and the ice conditions.
Scoring
Points are awarded at the end of each “end” (round). The team with the stone closest to the center of the house scores. Only stones that are within the house can be counted. A team can score multiple points if they have more than one stone closer to the center than any of their opponent’s stones.
Equipment
- Stones: Made of granite, weighing approximately 44 pounds.
- Brooms: Used to sweep the ice, affecting the stone’s trajectory. Modern brooms often have synthetic fabric heads.
- Shoes: One shoe has a slider on the sole, allowing players to glide along the ice. The other shoe provides grip.
Why is it Called Curling?
The name “curling” comes from the unique rotational movement of the stone as it travels down the ice. This “curl” is what makes the sport strategically challenging and visually appealing.
Curling Today
Curling is a popular sport enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. It’s a featured sport in the Winter Olympics, attracting a global audience. With its blend of strategy, skill, and teamwork, curling offers a unique and engaging experience for both participants and spectators.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Concepts
While the fundamental rules of curling are relatively straightforward, mastering the game requires understanding more complex strategies and techniques.
Types of Shots
- Draw Weight: A shot designed to reach the house.
- Guard: A stone placed in front of the house to protect other stones or make it difficult for the opposing team to score.
- Takeout (Hit): A shot aimed at removing an opponent’s stone from play.
- Freeze: A shot played directly in front of another stone, making it difficult to remove.
- Raise: A shot that pushes another stone further into the house.
- Double Takeout: A shot that removes two opposing stones with a single throw. Highly strategic and difficult to execute.
Reading the Ice
Experienced curlers develop a keen sense of reading the ice. Factors like temperature, humidity, and pebble (tiny droplets of water sprayed on the ice surface) can affect the stone’s path. Understanding these nuances is crucial for accurate shot placement.
Team Communication
Effective communication is essential in curling. The skip (team captain) directs the strategy and communicates the desired weight and line to the thrower. The sweepers then adjust the stone’s path based on the skip’s instructions and their own observations.
The Etiquette of Curling
Curling has a strong tradition of sportsmanship and etiquette, often referred to as the “Spirit of Curling.” This includes:
- Acknowledging good shots by opponents.
- Avoiding distractions while others are throwing.
- Admitting mistakes.
- Offering assistance to opposing teams when needed.
- Socializing with opponents after the game, often referred to as “broomstacking.”
Getting Involved
If you’re interested in trying curling, many curling clubs offer introductory lessons and leagues for beginners. It’s a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. So, grab a broom, find a local curling club, and experience the unique thrill of sliding stones down the ice!
Updated: August 14, 2025
