Have you seen people skating and wondered if you could ever do it? It looks pretty entertaining and provides a good workout at the same time. So, if you have been postponing it, now might be a good time to take that jump, and try out skating.
But remember, knowing how to roller skate with proper technique, form, and precaution beforehand will help you avoid injury.
Although it might seem a bit difficult initially, you’ll gradually master the proper form with some practice. People who seem to skate expertly have been doing it for quite some time, and it comes naturally to them, so don’t compare yourself to them, or try to do the things they do.
What are the other things to know while learning to skate? Continue reading to find out.
Which Roller Skates Should Beginners Use?
While starting, it is better to use roller shoes with soft wheels, which work best outdoors, because they efficiently absorb the shocks while skating over hard, uneven surfaces.
Always choose high-top boots as an amateur because they provide sufficient ankle support and stability. The extra padding on the shoe’s upper part prevents your legs from chafing, blistering, and other similar issues.
What Gear Is Necessary?
If you’re new to skating, you should always wear protective gear. Besides preventing injury, it will help practice with confidence. Once you become more comfortable and confident, you may not need them, but it’s still advisable to keep them on just in case.
You must always wear knee pads since the knees are highly vulnerable to injury while falling or taking bumps. Elbow pads are next, followed by wrist guards. Also, don’t forget the helmet, regardless of how much skating experience you have.
Where Should One Start Practicing?
It is advisable to practice in places that are spacious and skater-friendly. These are the garage, park, sidewalk, and skating rink. The more one practices, the more efficient they’ll become.
The body might feel tired and sore after a single practice session because it is unaccustomed to the effort, which is normal and not something to worry about.
Helpful Tips While Learning
A newbie to skating will find these tips helpful:
Secure the laces tightly
While tying the laces, ensure the skates are tight without being uncomfortable. Loose ones will prevent you from practicing the movements correctly and freely.
Practice standing up and falling down
Knowing how to stand up properly after tying the skates without tripping or falling is also important.
Practicing falling might seem strange, but doing so will help you get used to the movement. This way, even when you fall down, you will instinctively know how to control the fall, thereby reducing the chances of injuries. Additionally, you can also learn how to get back up after you’ve fallen down.
Start Slowly at First
As a learner, take things slowly at first. Stand on one leg with the skates and see how they feel. You could tighten the wheels to stop them from rolling and practice walking in the skates (remember to loosen them later).
Once comfortable, get into the skating position and push gently with one leg while maintaining momentum. Use the top-stopper to stop gently. You will be able to do it effortlessly after some practice.
Once you learn how to roller skate using the correct form, technique, and movement, you’ll enjoy the thrill and excitement it provides. It may take some time, but you’ll get it eventually.