4 skating books, from The Complete Book of Speed Skating to Faster Than Lightning, each with author, year and genre.
For every book you get author, publication year and genre, which is usually enough to know whether it is a training guide or a story to read on the sofa. We ranked them by what they offer a speed skating reader, not by sales, and the FAQ at the end answers the usual questions.
If you are working through the subject more broadly, we keep the same kind of list for speed skating films and documentaries and speed skating podcasts.
Best Speed Skating Books:
- The Complete Book of Speed Skating
- Inline!: A Manual for Beginning to Intermediate Inline Skating
- Faster Than Lightning: My Autobiography
- Speed on Skates: A Complete Technique, Training and Racing Guide for Inline and Ice Skaters
#1 The Complete Book of Speed Skating

- ✍️ Author: Dianne Holum
- 📆 Year Published: 1984
- 📘 Genre: Strategy and Coaching, History, Youth and High School Speed Skating
“The Complete Book of Speed Skating” offers a rich compendium of knowledge, covering every facet of the sport. For aspiring youth skaters and experienced athletes, this all-encompassing volume touches on history, technical skill, and coaching insights.
With training tips and historical anecdotes, this book serves not only as a guide to refining one’s craft but also as a tribute to the enduring legacy of speed skating.
#2 Inline!: A Manual for Beginning to Intermediate Inline Skating

- ✍️ Author: William Nealy
- 📆 Year Published: 2023
- 📘 Genre: Strategy and Coaching, Youth and High School Speed Skating
“Inline!” is the go-to handbook for those venturing into the world of inline skating. Tailored for the novice through to intermediate levels, this manual breaks down the fundamentals of equipment, technique, and safety.
A wholesome resource for young skaters and educators, it supports skill development with a keen eye on fostering a lifelong passion for the sport.
#3 Faster Than Lightning: My Autobiography

- ✍️ Author: Usain Bolt
- 📆 Year Published: 2014
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies
In “Faster Than Lightning,” readers dive into the electrifying personal narrative of a speed skater whose name became synonymous with velocity. This autobiography presents an unfiltered look into the dedication, resilience, and speed that mark a world-class athlete’s journey.
A source of inspiration, the story resonates with anyone who knows the relentless heartbeat of competitive sport and the indomitable spirit required to claim victory.
#4 Speed on Skates: A Complete Technique, Training and Racing Guide for Inline and Ice Skaters

- ✍️ Author: Barry Publow
- 📆 Year Published: 1998
- 📘 Genre: Strategy and Coaching
An indispensable resource for skaters crossing mediums, “Speed on Skates” bridges the gap between inline and ice, offering comprehensive training programs, technical tips, and racing strategies.
This guidebook is founded on a thorough understanding of the physiological and mechanical aspects of skating, delivering a wealth of knowledge for athletes determined to excel in either arena of the sport.
FAQ
What are the best Speed Skating books of all time?
“Speed Skating: Essential Tips for Beginners to Pros,” “The Complete Book of Speed Skating,” “Flying on Skates,” “Speed Skating: The Fast Track,” and “Encyclopedia of Speed Skating” are the best Speed Skating books of all time. These books provide a wealth of knowledge ranging from beginner tips to professional techniques and historical accounts of the sport.
What is the best Speed Skating book for adults?
“The Complete Book of Speed Skating” by Chad Hedrick is the best Speed Skating book for adults, as it offers detailed techniques, training programs, and insights into the competitive world of Speed Skating.
What are the best books for Speed Skating fundamentals and strategy?
“Speed Skating: Essential Tips for Beginners to Pros” and “Speed Skating: The Fast Track” are the best books for Speed Skating fundamentals and strategy, offering guidance on proper technique, training methods, and tactical insights for skaters at all levels.
















































