The Strategic Chill: Can You Learn Curling in Half an Hour?
As the 2025 Asian Winter Games spotlight unconventional sports, CGTN's Li Zhao took on a unique challenge: mastering curling basics in just 30 minutes under the guidance of a Games umpire. The result? A crash course in physics, teamwork, and icy finesse that's redefining winter sports engagement.
Ice, Stones, and Precision
Curling stones weigh approximately 42 pounds (19kg) – equivalent to carrying three car tires – but glide effortlessly across “pebbled ice” textured with microscopic water droplets. “The ice isn't just smooth – it's engineered for controlled slides,” explains the umpire, revealing how temperature gradients and meticulous sweeping techniques influence stone trajectories.
30-Minute Mastery
Key takeaways from Li’s speedrun:
1. The Push-Pivot: Start low, push from the hack (foot rail), and release with controlled rotation
2. Sweep Smart: Vigorous brushing melts ice slightly, reducing friction for longer slides
3. Angle Calculus: Use the “curl” effect to knock opponents' stones out of scoring position
Why Gen Z Is Curling In
With 78% of Asian Winter Games viewers under 35 tuning into curling streams, the sport’s blend of chess-like strategy and rhythmic physicality resonates with gamers and strategists. The 2025 event has seen a 40% increase in first-time curlers across G20 nations, driven by TikTok tutorials and esports-style match analytics.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
