6 easy steps to roller skating
Roller skating is in the midst of a resurgence, with roller derby and roller discos once again popular among kids and adults alike. And with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Starlight Express musical - performed entirely on roller skates - sweeping London’s theatre scene once more, we wouldn’t blame you for catching skate fever. So if you’re tempted to give this fun sport a go, here are six easy steps to get you started.
1. Get the right equipment
Whether you’re heading to a roller rink and hiring their equipment or investing in your own, the first thing you need is a pair of skates that fit you. Quad skates (with four wheels) are better for beginners than inline skates, as they provide more ankle support and stability. You’ll also need some knee pads and elbow pads - and if you want to be super secure, a helmet.
2. Get the posture
Before you move anywhere, you’ll need to learn how to balance in the ‘ready’ position. Place your feet parallel, a hand’s width apart and bend your knees until you feel your weight in the balls of the feet. This stance helps to prevent you from toppling over as you get used to being on wheels. It’s also a good cruising position.
3. The duck walk
Before you begin to glide you’ll need to master the duck walk. Put your heels together and turn out your toes in a V shape, and assume your ready position. Walk forward keeping your feet turned out and shifting your weight to remain balanced. Falling over is part of the process, so don’t worry if this step takes you a while.
4. Glide
As you gain confidence with your duck walk, you can allow yourself to take longer strides and roll a little more. Push off with one foot and glide until you lose momentum, then push off from the other foot. Keep your weight over the front foot and your front knee slightly bent, while the back foot lifts off the floor.
5. Practise stopping
Roller skates have a brake on the toe. Practise stopping by getting your feet parallel and bending the front knee slightly, keeping your body upright with your shoulders over your hips. Put around 80% of your weight into the front leg and allow the toe stopper of the back skate to drag on the floor, slowing you down.
6. Take a turn
Once you can confidently skate forwards and stop, you can try turns. All this requires is a lean to the right or left (whichever way you want to turn), placing your weight into the outer edge of the turning foot.
If trying out roller skating has inspired you to see the Starlight Express show, don’t miss the chance to see it this season. This skating spectacular has been updated for a 21st century audience, with new songs, dazzling costumes and a purpose-built auditorium at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. It’s a high-energy experience that will leave you amazed at the skill and precision of the cast. Book your Starlight Express tickets with KX Tickets today.
