Did you know that roller skating dates back to 1735? The first roller skate wasn’t patented until 1819, though.
Whether you’re new to roller skating or a pro, you might want to impress your friends with some new tricks. Read this guide on the top roller skating tips to stand out from the crowd and look like a pro in no time!
Where To Find Roller Skates
Be sure to check out RollerSkateDad skate reviews to find some of the best skates out there. You can check your local store or online for various options.
If you go with popular options, expect delays. Buy your skates well in advance. This will allow you to practice with them too.
Don’t go cheap on your first pair. While it’s tempting, you’ll want a pair that you can break in and feel comfortable using. You can upgrade parts over time too.
Some other items you might need include:
- Skate pads
- Extra wheel bearings
- Skate lube
- All-in-one skate tool
Start Slow
One of the best roller skating practice tips is to start slow. Consider walking like a duck before you glide.
Some recommend learning how to break before you learn how to glide. If you’re able, consider riding your skates inside your home until you feel comfortable. This will make going on the pavement or rink less scary.
Consider learning outside with a friend who is experienced. Lean on them as you practice skating. Be comfortable with gliding and stopping before you learn any tricks.
Wear Safety Gear
Use helmets, elbow and shoulder pads, and other safety gear. Once you become more comfortable, you’ll want to perform tricks and impress your friends. It’s also important to stay safe.
Use Correct Body Posture
Beginner roller skating tips include using proper posture. If you want to look like a pro, bend your legs.
Many beginners tend to straighten their legs and then lose balance. Release pressure and relax as you bend them.
Your heels need to be aligned with your buttocks. Your shoulders are vertically aligned with your knees.
Keep a good gap between your feet. This will prevent your wheels from colliding. Collision increases the likelihood of falling.
Braking
Roller skates have toe stops in the front. When you want to stop slowly, don’t apply too much pressure. To stop suddenly, you’ll place more pressure.
The T formation is another popular option. Lean forward and place one of your legs back.
Your support foot and back foot need to be perpendicular. The wheels need to be lying flat. If you don’t position your wheels properly, they can shake.
Bling up Your Skates
Use catchy designs on your skates to make them stand out. This will keep others’ attention away from your body and instead on your skates.
Consider custom-made or higher-quality options that you can find online. Avoid buying run-of-the-mill options.
Skate Backwards
Once you become comfortable with roller skating, skate backward. Form an inverted v with your feet.
Raise your left skate as you push off your right toe. Drop your left foot and push off of it when you go to raise your right skate.
Be sure to shift your body weight as you go. Don’t look down.
Look over your shoulder as you move. This will allow you to avoid running into something.
Jumping Time
Practice gliding by taking a few strides. Once you’re comfortable, you can try jumping.
Be sure that you’re stable on your skates before trying this. If you’re moving too fast, you might wind up hurting yourself.
Once you’re at a comfortable speed, you’ll want to bring your skates together (parallel). Tighten your core to ensure that you’re stable on your feet.
Stretch your arms out to your side. Squat down and jump up. Keep your knees bent when you squat.
Once you become more comfortable, you can practice jumping higher. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at it. Practice landing on one skate once you’re confident.
Spinning
Once you can move comfortably on your wheels, you can try spinning. Spin in any direction.
Bend your knees and keep your feet shoulder-width apart. Spread your arms apart as well. Lift your body once you become more comfortable.
Pull your skates together for a spin. If this is too hard, practice powerful glides before you turn. Keep the skates turned to spin.
Backward Cross
The forward position is where you place one foot over the other. For the backward cross, you do the same, just in the opposite direction. Don’t try this until you’re comfortable with gliding.
Grapevine
The grapevine will have you skating forward and back at the same time. Stay low and keep your knees bent.
Flex your ankles. Before you try this, be sure that you can skate forward and back.
Begin with your right leg to move forward. As you take a turn, move backward with the left leg.
Take a turn and move forward and wind up on your right leg. Take your time and consider watching someone else before you try it.
Exploring Some of the Best Roller Skating Tips
After exploring this guide, you should have a better idea of some of the best roller skating tips. Take your time deciding what the best tricks and tips are for you.
Would you like to read more lifestyle and informative content? Then, be sure to check out our other articles today. From easy-to-follow guides to tips and tricks, we have you covered.
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