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Inline Skating - Fundamental Skills
Mastering inline skating techniques involves achieving a stable position on the skates, understanding how to stop, executing smooth turns, and learning how to fall safely. This guide covers all the essential inline skating skills for newcomers.
Inline skating is accessible to everyone, regardless of size or age. All you need is a pair of inline skates, some protective equipment, and a smooth, traffic-free surface to begin your practice. Initially, you may find the learning curve steep, but perseverance will yield noticeable progress in a matter of hours, so keep at it!
Inline Skating Position
To correctly position yourself on inline skates, keep your knees bent. Bending your knees lowers your centre of gravity, aiding balance.
Ensure your feet remain parallel with each other, pointing straight and neither inwards nor outwards.
With knees bent, feet parallel, and your upper body slightly leaning forward, you should achieve a balanced and stable position.
Watch our instructional video, How to Skate on Inline Skates:
Stopping Techniques for Inline Skating
There are two primary methods for stopping: employing the brake pad or the T-stop method. Both methods are detailed in our instructional video, How to Stop on Inline Skates:
Brake Pad Method for Inline Skates
To brake using the brake pad, extend the skate with the brake forward, lifting your toes so the brake pad touches the ground. This will decelerate you. The brake pad allows you to comfortably adjust your pacing or come to a full stop. For novices, becoming familiar with the brake pad is advisable to maintain control.
T-Stop Method for Inline Skates
The T-stop involves placing one foot behind and dragging its wheels perpendicularly to form a T with your other foot, until you come to a halt. This requires balancing on one foot whilst moving.
The T-stop lets you decelerate using your wheels, without needing a brake pad, which can sometimes hinder. Beginners should also practise the T-stop to enhance their control on inline skates.
Turning on Inline Skates
When turning, assume a slight forward lean with bent knees. To turn left, slide your left foot slightly ahead; do the opposite for a right turn. Shift your weight in the direction of the turn and lean in with your upper body. Looking where you intend to turn can greatly assist you.
Focusing on your turning skills will help you avoid common beginner's mistakes and provide a foundation for learning the cross-over turn technique as you advance.
Safe Falling Techniques for Inline Skates
Falling forwards is preferable as it allows control over the fall, avoiding injuries to the head or tailbone.
If you sense a loss of balance, take these steps:
- Bend low and lean forwards – The lower position minimises impact, and you may even regain balance.
- Utilise protective gear to absorb the fall – Falling on protective gear like knee, elbow, or wrist pads will absorb impact. If moving swiftly, sliding on the pads can prevent scrapes.
These safety techniques will reduce the risk of injuries and ensure ongoing progress with your inline skating.
Choosing the Right Inline Skates for Beginners
Both beginners and seasoned inline skaters should seek skates that are snug and comfortable. Beginner skates ought to include a heel brake and ample ankle support. Opt for softer wheels (76A - 84A), with a maximum diameter of 84mm for adults with larger feet, and under 70mm for children.
For further advice, explore our guides on purchasing inline skates:
