Start skating

You don’t have to be strong or have good endurance, you don’t even have to be flexible to have fun and enjoy roller skating. But you have to consider the fact that skating might not be easy in the beginning. You will have to get used to it.

If you have bone problems, breathing problems, heart problems or any other serious illnesses, consult your doctor before you start training.

Prepare your body

Skating engages your leg muscles. Warming up is as essential as in any other training so you can’t ignore it. Squats and other exercises will help to prepare your leg muscles to skate. You can do a few sit-ups, too. while you’re at it.

During the days when you are not skating, you can always jog, walk briskly, or train at home (for example you can use a stepper or a stationary bike if you have one - if not, do pull ups or pushups). This way you’ll improve your immunity and circulatory system and get fit even faster.

Choose a route

Roller skating requires an even and smooth surface. You cannot skate on sand or grass. It’s best to choose pavement or a bicycle track, but there are more and more tracks for skating appearing every year and you shouldn’t have too much problem finding some route near where you live.

You can skate on pavement, on bicycle tracks, in parks and even parking lots.

Beginners have to remember to:

• Avoid uneven, littered, and damaged surfaces.
• Avoid rain and slippery surfaces.
• Avoid crowded routes; it’s easy to have an accident when you’re a beginner.
• Avoid listening to music while skating - music disturbs your concentration when you’re a beginner.
• Skate only during the day; skating in the dark can be dangerous.

Don’t be afraid

When you begin your adventure with roller skates it’s certain that you’ll fall down once or twice and maybe even twenty times. But it doesn’t matter. What matters is that you have to remember that it’s no disgrace and you have nothing to fear. If you don’t want others to see your first steps, you should find some isolated spot with an even surface and ask a friend (preferably a friend who’s experienced in skating) to assist.

A helmet, wrist guards, knee pads and elbow pads are essential - see how to choose protective gear for what to look for in each piece.

Remember to inspect your roller skates and accessories to avoid surprises. Check that none of the parts are loose and if you strapped your skates properly.