Roller skating can be tough but if you really want to do it you are going to push through with hard work. I know for me roller skating did not come easy. So I want to give you some tips and tricks for learning how to get better at roller skating as a beginner.
First decide If You Want To Roller Skate Outside Or Inside
Roller skating outside is more challenging than roller skating inside. Roller skating inside is easier than outside because you’re in a rink. This is easier because there is no crack, bump, or hill and there are less obstacles that can cause you to fall.
If you get good at indoor skating outside skating will be easier. I will be talking about roller skating inside so if you want to learn how to roller skate outside this is not for you.
Tie your Skate Tight
Before you get on the skating rink make sure you tie your roller skates tight so your feet do not move in the skate and so they do not untie.
Check For Error
The roller skates you are wearing have an impact on how you are skating. You have to make sure that before you get on the roller skating rink that you have the right roller skates. Start with your shoe size. Some roller rinks do not have half sizes so if you wear a half size you are probably going to want to size down. You do not want your skates to be too big on your feet. Wearing roller skates that are too big can lead to blisters.
Wear Calf High Socks
Wearing calf high socks will stop your socks from slipping off your foot and leading to discomfort when you are roller skating.
Bend Your Knees
When you are roller skating you have to pick your feet up and place them back down kinda like you are walking. You have to bend your knees because it makes it easier to pick up your feet. Not bending your knee can make it harder to move around in roller skates.
Use The Wall
If you feel like you can not balance, use the wall. There is nothing wrong with using the wall when you first start to roller skate. As long as you feel comfortable and are able to make your way around the roller rink you are doing just fine.
Put Your Arms Down
I know when you’re trying to balance you might put both your arms up like a T. But this is not a good way to roller skate. When you roller skate you want to have your hands on the side of your body because it is a better way to move around. Also the same applies for roller skating outside. When roller skating outside make sure your arms are to your side
Use The Wall To Stop
When you first stop roller skating you might not know how to stop with the stoppers on the skates. So use the wall to stop.
You can use the wall to stop by holding the wall and slowing down your skate. until you stop, or by skating into the wall to stop. Using the wall to stop when you first stop is ok as long as you learn to stop using the stopper.
Most Importantly Is To Have Fun
Roller skating is a hobby and unless you are planning to get into a sport that requires roller skating you should not take it that seriously. Having fun should be the reason that you are trying to roller skate.
Roller skating is a hobby, like other than you do for fun roller skating should not stress you at.
I hope you found an use in reading my tips and tricks about how to roller skate.
Photo Credits:U.S. Coast Guard Academy
Nevaeh Jones- DeLaSalle- DMSF Class of 2028