How to start inline skating? First time

What to wear
First and foremost, let's talk about gear. When it comes to clothing, it's best to wear jeans instead of leggings for better protection, especially when learning falling techniques. Additionally, be sure to wear good socks that are as high as your skates, empty your pockets of any jewelry, and avoid skating with a backpack on.

Get the right gear
When it comes to skates, any skate is better than no skate. If you don't have a pair, you can always rent them at our shop in Amsterdam. However, it's important to choose a skate with good sideways support. The cheap softboot type skates do not have this sideways support and thus do not give you the control that any beginner needs.. For more information on this topic, check out our blog on skate selection.
https://www.thisissoul.com/blogs/buyers-guide/recreational-inline-skate-buyers-guide

Protection
Protection is also key when inline skating. Wrist fractures are a common injury, especially among females, so wrist guards are a must.

Knee pads are also important. You know a knee pad is good when they do not just have 2 straps, but have an additional sock behind the knee to keep the kneepad in place. Another marker is that some knee pads are a bit pointy. The cap however should not be pointy, but flat.

Additionally, elbow pads and a helmet are advised. Make sure the helmet fits snugly and moves with your head when you shake it.

Find a spot
Once you have the right gear, it's time to find a good spot to practice. Look for a place with minimal traffic, such as a deserted basketball court with a smooth surface, or maybe a nice park. Make sure there are no leaves and twigs on the ground.

First steps!
If you're a beginner and feeling apprehensive about skating, don't worry! 
Here are a few tips to get you started:
 - Try putting on one skate and one shoe to get used to the feeling of rolling.
- Practice rolling on a rubbery surface, such as a mat under a slide at a playground, or a carpet. This will make the wheels rotate less fast and it will make it easier.

Start on your knees and slowly rise up, making sure to stay low and keep your knees over your toes and shoulders over your knees. Once you feel comfortable, try standing without using your hands and then move very slowly, allowing your knee to slide along the ground.

To practice your skating stance, keep your knees over your toes and your shoulders over your knees at all times. Stay low, as if you were speed skating or skiing, and try to become comfortable with the ground. It's a good idea to make friends with the ground, as it can either help you or hurt you depending on how you treat it.

To make practice fun, try some little tricks like making a ballerina circle, walking like a crab, or practicing the penguin walk to gain speed. You can also challenge yourself by riding on one foot for as long as possible or performing fish movements at high speeds.

We hope these tips help you get started with inline skating! Check out more blogs for more instructions or consider taking lessons from one of our colleagues at Thisissoul Skateschool in Amsterdam. Happy skating!