The news group rec.sport.skating.ice.recreational sees quite a few postings from adults who have just discovered skating as a recreational activity. Don't let age, weight or perceived lack of athletic ability deter you from the fun and accomplishment to be gained. Wherever you skate, there will be a mother who doesn't skate herself but has a young girl enrolled at the rink. She may consider you to be taking up space on the ice.
Any space is too much.
Or you may outweigh little Suzy by a factor of three, and she fears that if there is a collision Suzy may get squashed and have her Olympic ambitions prematurely terminated. Despite the fact that the session is open to all ages and you've paid full admission, she complains and starts rumors. To combat this problem, join the skating club and make a point to get acquainted with the coaches, adult skaters and parents at the rink. Volunteer for duties at competitions. But please remember that all of the people who run the club are volunteers, giving of themselves and their time just like you.