Curling Explained: Rules, Terms and What to Expect

Curling is played by two teams, each sliding stones toward a circular target called the house.

Basic idea

Teams take turns delivering stones. After all stones are played, the team with the stone nearest the centre scores points for each of its stones closer than the opponent's best.

Terms

• House: the target circles.
• Hammer: the last stone of an end.
• End: one round of play.
• Sweeping: brushing the ice to affect the stone's path and distance.

For beginners

Wear clean shoes with a smooth sole, dress warmly, and ask a club for a trial session.