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Inline Skating – Foundational Skills
Mastering inline skating involves establishing a solid posture on the skates, developing stopping techniques, executing turns gracefully, and understanding how to fall without injury. This guide provides all the essential information for novices in inline skating.
Inline skating is accessible to everyone—regardless of size or age. All you need to start is a pair of inline skates, some protective gear, and a smooth area free from traffic for practice. The initial stage may be challenging, although noticeable improvements are evident after a few hours, so persistence is key!
Overview
Achieving the Right Stance on Inline Skates
Maintaining the correct stance on inline skates requires bending your knees adequately. Knees bent while skating bring you closer to the ground, aiding in better balance.
When skating, your feet should remain parallel and point forward, refraining from pointing inward or outward.
With knees bent, feet aligned parallel, and a slightly forward-leaning upper body, your position should be stable and well-balanced.
Watch our instructional video, How to Skate on Inline Skates:
Stopping Techniques for Inline Skates
Stoppers on inline skates can either utilise the brake pad or the T-stop method.
Employing the Brake Pad on Inline Skates
Braking with the brake pad involves extending the skate with the brake pad ahead and lifting your toes to make the brake pad touch the ground, consequently slowing you down. This method allows you to regulate your speed comfortably or bring yourself to a complete halt. As a beginner, it's advisable to get acquainted with the brake pad for optimal control.
Executing the T-Stop on Inline Skates
The T-stop technique requires placing one foot behind and dragging its wheels on the ground perpendicular to the front foot, forming a 'T.' You may continue dragging until you halt fully. To perform a T-stop, balancing on one foot while skating is necessary.
Applying T-stops permits braking without relying on brake pads, which can sometimes obstruct. Beginners should also familiarise themselves with the T-stop as it enhances control while skating.
Both braking methods are detailed in our video tutorial, How to Stop on Inline Skates:
Turning Techniques for Inline Skates
Executing turns on inline skates involves a slight forward lean along with knees bent. To turn left, advance your left foot; for right turns, do the opposite. Redistribute weight towards the turning direction, leaning into it with your upper body. Facing the direction of the intended turn can be beneficial.
Fine-tuning your turning skills helps mitigate common beginner errors and lays a foundation for learning crossover turns as you advance.
Safe Falling Practices on Inline Skates
Taking a forward fall is preferable, as it allows you to manage the fall and avoid impacting the back of your head or tailbone.
If you sense a loss of balance on the skates, do the following:
- Lower your body and lean forward—staying closer to the ground reduces fall impact. This position may even help regain stability.
- Utilise protective gear during falls—falling on knee, elbow, or wrist protectors absorbs impact instead of your body. If moving swiftly while falling, opt to slide on your pads to minimise scrapes.
These strategies can reduce injury risk, aiding your ongoing progress with inline skating.
Selecting the Optimal Inline Skates for Learning
Inline skaters, whether beginners or advanced, should prioritise skates that offer a comfortable and secure fit. Skates for novices should include a heel brake and provide substantial ankle support. Wheels should be soft (76A - 84A) and not overly large—adults with larger feet should opt for 84 mm or less, while children should choose sizes below 70 mm.
Refer to our buying guides for detailed information on selecting inline skates:
