The weather is spoiling us, and we are in vacation mode. Just slip on a pair of roller skates and go to the park to roll. Rollerblading is quite something! It is a highly enjoyable activity which requires excellent body coordination! It tones your body and helps you lose weight too. It is a great entertainment for people of all ages! But before you embark on this adventure (spoiler alert: rollerblading is addictive), it is a good idea to get some information to get better prepared.
Is rollerblading for every one?
Not quite so. If you have problems with labyrinth or middle ear disorders, you’d better not start rollerblading. The sport can also be too much for you if you have some serious issues with your back or joints that required a surgery.
However, if you do not have any of the above problems, it’s great. You can spend your summer on roller skates! It is also an excellent sports activity because you can do it in the city.
Are rollerblades safe?
This is not a sport that is most likely to cause injuries; however, all beginnings are hard. You are bound to hit the floor a couple of times while learning to rollerblade. However, as you become more experienced, there is only pure pleasure that awaits you. Remember – a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads are musts! Especially for the beginners. Safety comes first, otherwise you risk bruises or even broken arms or legs.
Also choose a safe place to learn. Ideally, a park with asphalt paths. This will give you greater comfort. Try to choose a time of day when there are few people in the park.
How to choose the right rollerblades?
Let’s begin by explaining why the wrong rollerblades can hurt you. Rollerblades that are difficult to roll may be more likely to cause injuries, will be an unnecessary burden on the knees and will effectively dampen your enthusiasm. That is why your first rollerblades do not need to be top class (though do not look for roller skates that are cheaper than 350 zlotys); however, make sure you choose only well-known reputable sports brands. Also, read the online reviews. Ideally, buy the rollerblades in a regular store so that you can try them on and test them.
In a professional store, a shop assistant will tell you which type of rollerblades to choose. Not every one knows that there are different types of rollerblades to choose from – recreational skates (those are good for the beginners). They are excellent at shaping the leg muscles, which is why they are also known as the “fitness” skates), rollerblades for fast rollerblading (they have big wheels and big bearings), freestyle rollerblades (they are maneuverable thanks to big and closely-fit wheels, they are also very light) and aggressive rollerblades (for competitive rollerblading at skateparks).
When buying rollerblades, pay attention to the bearings, the wheel size and the wheel durometer and (what is particularly important) the right size.
Rollerblading – how to get started?
Before you begin, make sure you have put your rollerblades on correctly and that you fastened them properly. Put your feet together and make a “V” with your rollerblades. Get your heels together and your toes should be pointing to the outside. As you stand up, your body should be moved forward to keep balance.
The first movements should be small and gliding. Please note that you are not going to skate fast right away! Give yourself time to learn the new skills. It is a good idea to ask someone who is already rollerblading to teach you or to watch a few tutorials first – there are plenty of them online.
How to fall on rollerblades?
Try not to spread out your hands and do not rest your entire body weight on them. It’s better not to fall backwards or forwards to protect your back, your hips, your face, etc. How can you fall then? On your buttocks, by squatting as though you were trying to sit down. The thigh bone is strong and supported by many muscles so the “amortisation” system there is the best one. If you are learning, always put on a helmet and the pads. Ideally, you never give them up!
After a few lessons, you will be gliding on your rollerblades and enjoying a summer activity that takes us back to our school days. After all, rollerblading was super fancy back in those days, wasn’t it?