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Inline Skating - Fundamental Techniques
Acquiring a proper inline skating technique involves establishing a stable stance on the skates, mastering stopping methods, executing smooth turns, and learning to fall safely. This guide covers all the essential techniques a beginner needs to grasp.
Inline skating caters to everyone, regardless of age or size. All that is required is a pair of inline skates, the appropriate protective equipment, and a smooth, traffic-free surface to begin your practice. Although the initial learning phase can be quite challenging, you will notice improvements after just a few hours of practice, so perseverance is key.
Overview
Achieving the Correct Stance on Inline Skates
To ensure a proper stance, bend your knees while inline skating. This lowers your centre of gravity, helping you maintain balance.
Your feet should remain parallel, pointing straight ahead rather than inwards or outwards.
Maintain bent knees, parallel feet, and slightly lean your upper body forward to achieve a balanced and stable stance.
Watch our instructional video, How to Skate on Inline Skates:
Methods for Stopping on Inline Skates
To halt while inline skating, you can utilise either the brake pad or the T-stop technique.
Utilising the Brake Pad on Inline Skates
Braking with the brake pad involves moving the skate with the brake pad forward, lifting your toes, and allowing the pad to touch the ground, thereby slowing you down. The brake pad lets you manage your speed comfortably, or stop completely. It's advisable for beginners to get accustomed to using the brake pad to maintain control.
T-Stop Technique for Inline Skates
The T-stop is performed by placing one foot behind, dragging its wheels perpendicularly to the other foot to form a T. Continue dragging until you halt. This technique requires the ability to balance on one foot while rolling.
T-stops eliminate the need for a brake pad, utilising your wheels instead. This is beneficial as brake pads can occasionally obstruct. Beginners are encouraged to learn the T-stop to enhance control on inline skates.
Both stopping techniques are detailed in our video guide, How to Stop on Inline Skates:
Executing Turns on Inline Skates
When turning, lean slightly forward with bent knees. To turn left, advance your left foot; for right turns, do the opposite. Transfer your weight towards the turn and lean into it with your upper body. Looking in the intended direction improves turning efficiency.
Concentrating on your turning technique aids in avoiding common beginner errors and facilitates learning the cross-over turning technique as you advance.
Safe Falling Techniques on Inline Skates
Falling forwards is preferable, as it allows you to control the fall and avoid impact on the back of your head or tailbone.
If you sense loss of balance on inline skates:
- Crouch and lean forward – staying low reduces impact, and you might even regain balance.
- Rely on protective gear to cushion falls – Knee pads, elbow pads, or wrist pads absorb impact. If moving quickly, attempt to slide on your protectors to minimise abrasions.
These strategies decrease the risk of injuries that could hinder your inline skating progress.
Selecting the Optimal Inline Skates for Learning
Both novices and seasoned skaters should ensure their skates fit snugly and comfortably. Skates for beginners should incorporate a heel brake and provide strong ankle support. Opt for soft wheels (76A - 84A) with sizes not exceeding 84mm for adults with large feet, and below 70mm for children.
For detailed information, consult our guides on purchasing inline skates:
