Complete Guide to Getting Started with Your First Skates

Step 1: Assume the Safety Position (or “Scissors”)

• Determine your dominant leg: This is the leg that naturally feels most comfortable being forward. If you don't know it yet, you'll discover it over time.
• Place your feet correctly: Separate your feet, leaving the dominant one in front.
• Bend your knee and lower your hip: Keep your back straight to maintain a balanced posture.
• Align your knees: Bend your knees so they are level with your face, keeping your dominant foot forward.
• Extend your arms forward: This will give you better balance and stability.
• Prepare to fall: If you slide forward, use your hands to catch yourself and avoid falling.

Remember that practicing with someone's help at first can make a big difference.

Step 2: Balance Your Weight

1. Position “B” or Scissors: Lower into the scissor position by slightly opening your feet outwards.
2. Keep your knees bent: This detail is essential for balance and for cushioning movements.
3. Practice side rolling: Practice shifting your weight from side to side, focusing on transferring all of your weight to one leg and aligning your head with it.
4. Practice with each leg: Try holding your weight on one foot for several seconds before switching to the other.

Once you've mastered this exercise, you'll be ready to start moving forward.

Start the Movement:

• Lower into the scissor position.
• Rock your weight from side to side in a slow, controlled manner.
• Place your weight on the balls of your feet, mimicking a smooth forward walk.
• Practice taking long steps while maintaining lateral balance.

The goal is for your body to feel the forward movement thanks to correct posture and weight distribution.

Step 3: Learn to Push

With a foundation of balance established, it's time to add the momentum to move forward:

• Execute the push: Similar to the previous step, but in this case push with the skate towards the floor.
• Perform the movement in three phases:
  1. Push: Apply force towards the floor.
  2. Open your foot: Allow your foot to move slightly outward.
  3. Return to center: Realign your foot to the starting position.

Repeat this movement smoothly and for a long time. Imagine pushing off the floor to "leave it behind" and, little by little, feel yourself moving forward.

Important Tips:

• Correct posture: Always keep your knees bent, your hips low, and your chest up.
• Practice consistently: Skating may seem complicated at first, but regular practice is the key to improvement.
• Focus on the scissor position: Mastering this basic position will help you move forward with more confidence and security.

Conclusion

Skating is an exciting and challenging sport that requires technique, practice, and patience. With this guide, you now know the basics for safely advancing on your skates. Remember that consistent practice and balance are your best allies on this path.

If you enjoyed this content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @rollatrick and @aurora.esteva for more tips and updates. Tag me to see your progress and share this passion for skating together!

See you on the track and let's roll!

Aurora Esteva - Roll'a Trick