Roller skating has always felt like freedom to me.
When you’re going fast, you’re flying.
So how can you join the ranks of the roller skaters?
It will take a little investment of time and practice, but soon, this could be you.
I used to play roller derby, so I spent years getting comfortable on my skates.
(I also hear there is something out there called a roller blade?No idea about those.)
There are two types of quad roller skates youll see around.
These are your classic retro-style roller skates.
The other throw in is a low-cut skate that looks more like a sneaker.
These give you zero ankle support, but more flexibility.
Anything below $80 or so is suspect.
Some skates are too flimsy or dont have proper equipment.
To spot what’s wrong with them, it helps to know a little skate anatomy.
Under the boot (the shoe part), we have aplate.
The plate needs to be strong enough to support your weight.
And then, connecting the wheels to the plate, we have thetrucks.
These are a moving part that allows some movement between the wheel axle and the plate.
It has cushions and is attached to the plate at an angle.
You also don’t have a way of replacing the trucks without replacing the entire skate.
Youwillfall on your knees, so get kneepads.
Get ahelmetto protect your head, and consider elbow pads and wrist guards.
First, be able to tighten or loosen the nuts on your wheels.
Often, skates will come with the nuts too tight.
Looser trucks will steer more sharply, but theyll feel more wobbly.
Your toe stops are another thing to check.
Never attempt to go up or down stairs or navigate tricky terrain until youre very sure of your skills.
Perhaps youll find yourself popping up onto your toe stops to get up from a chair.
Skate without falling down
You only need a small space to practice the basics.
First up, your body position: Always bend your knees at least a little.
This helps you to keep your balance, since now you could shift your weight as needed.
(Locked knees are a no-no, at least until you’re more advanced.)
Learn to stand in a T-stance: Put one foot perpendicularly behind the other.
This is very stable, and is how you should stand when you aren’t intending to roll anywhere.
you might also push off from the sideways skate to get moving.
Steer on your skates by leaning to the side.
With practice, you’ll be able to skate in a circle on one foot.
(The looser your trucks, the smaller the circle.)
Learn some moves
Now we get to the fun part!
What are you going to do on your skates?
If you plan to head outdoors, remember your helmet and kneepads and start with smooth, flat areas.
Indoors, it’s possible for you to do a lot in a small space.
Whatever you choose, stay safe, know your skates, and dont be afraid to get creative.
