Roller Blading Basics: Tips for a Proper Initiation to the Sport
There are sports that you can learn by yourself, and there are sports that you’re better off learning from a professional or at least someone with adequate skills. Roller blading definitely belongs to the latter, so the first tip you should follow is to have a companion with you while learning the basics of roller blading.
Secondly, be sure to practice with an old pair of roller blades that fit you perfectly. A new pair of roller blades is hard to practice in because they have to be broken in properly first. If you insist in practicing with a new pair, it’s very likely for your feet to be subjected to lots of blisters, pain, and discomfort. A perfect fit is important as well because it helps you move in comfort and at the speed you desire.
Always wear the necessary safety gear for roller blading. This is a sport that you’re likely to experience falling and tripping so having the necessary safety gear will prevent you from incurring serious injuries. For starters, a helmet, elbow and knee caps should be adequate.
Wear the proper clothing as well. Covering from neck to ankles is ideal, but if you feel silly wearing this, make sure that you at least wear a top that covers your elbows and a bottom that falls past your knees as these are the most vulnerable parts of your body in roller blading.
Start practicing on a basic, simple and straightforward course. Anything that’s inclined or descending can lead to more accidents. On a straightforward course, however, you’ll find it easier to move or stop. Having a quiet and peaceful atmosphere is desirable as well as this allows you to concentrate more on what you’re doing. Take things one step at a time.
Balance is one of the key skills in roller blading, and to learn how to balance properly with a pair of roller blades, start by testing your balance with one foot first before switching to the other.
For a safe and effective brake in roller blading, consider purchasing roller blades that are equipped with safety break features such as Rollerblade’s Active Brake Technology. If your roller blades don’t have this, however, you can practice braking by leaning forward then applying pressure to the heel of the foot you want to use for braking. That foot must be slightly tilted while your other knee is bent slightly.
Once you master the necessary techniques for moving and braking, that’s the time you can practice turning in roller blading. Good luck on gaining advanced skills in this sport!
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