Roller Skating

Roller skating is a unique hobby because it can be done recreationally or can be played as a competitive sport! However, beginners should definitely take some time getting their bearings on skates before diving into a roller skating race. Falling is not unusual for new skaters, but once you get the hang of things, you will have a new way to spend time with friends and keep your body moving.

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You may not realize it, but there are tons of types of roller skating. First, people distinguish between outdoor and indoor skating. Outdoor roller skating is nice because it becomes a form of transportation – you can roller skate to work! But many prefer indoor skating in a designated roller rink, so you don’t have to worry about a variable surface like you do in the wild.

Roller rinks are a popular, vibrant place for roller skating hobbyists. It's a social environment to skate with a fun ambiance — you can rent skates or just watch from the sidelines. While you can go to a roller rink and just do laps, you are likely to see people performing in different dance styles. 

Rhythm skaters perform dance moves and improvise to synchronize their movements with the music. Jam skating combines elements of dance and gymnastics, with complicated footwork and tricks performed in a free style and improvisational manner. You can also skate artistically by performing choreographed routines, either by yourself or in a group. 

Aggressive roller skating, also known as park, trick, or street skating, involves doing tricks off of any ramps, rails, and ledges, some of which require special hardware additions to your skates. Some rinks have obstacles for you to practice your tricks on, but you can also find your obstacles on the streets.  

If you like sports, roller derby might be the type of skating for you. This fast–paced, competitive team sport is played by doing laps around a rink. Two teams face off, and you score points by lapping members of the other team. 

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First, you have to get a pair of roller skates, which are essentially a pair of shoes with wheels attached. There are many different kinds of roller skates based on what type of skating you want to do, and some skates are better for beginners than others. 

Quad skates are typically recommended for beginners; they have four wheels and offer skaters good stability. You also want to think about the type of wheel on your skates – a softer wheel lends itself to outdoor skating, while a harder wheel is better for indoor skating. You also may look into inline skates, also known as roller blades. They only have a single row of wheels, allowing you to move more quickly and dynamically.

Your skates should fit like any other shoe; snug, but not super tight. Make sure your foot has mobility, but also feels secure

Before you get up on your new skates, be sure to put on some protective gear! Protective pads can be worn on elbows, thighs and shins to protect from falls. You should also be sure to get a helmet to protect yourself from concussions and other head injuries.