So it's too hot to go for a run and you'd like to take up biking, but purchasing a new road bike just isn't in your budget. Rollerblading is the next best thing since rollerblades are more affordable than bikes. This sport will tone your lower body and burn calories like running, but since you'll be moving faster the breeze will keep you cool. If you're a beginner, check out these tips.
When it comes to getting started:
Do: Rent a pair of rollerblades before you splurge on new equipment. If it becomes your new favorite thing, you can always invest in a pair of your own. Rent a helmet and also knee, wrist, and elbow pads. If you don't have a knowledgeable friend to take you out then signing up for a lesson is a superb idea.
Don't: Get upset if it takes you a while to get the hang of standing up, moving around, and stopping. All good things come to those who practice.
To see how your rollerblades should fit, read more.
Do: Make sure your boots fit snugly. It they're too loose, your foot will slide around and rub against the inside of the boot, causing some nasty blisters. A loose boot will also make it hard for you to push off with control and stay balanced.
Don't: Tie the laces too tight because your foot will go numb.
To find out what else you should keep in mind read more.
When it comes to the environment:
Do: Choose a path that is paved and wide enough for you and other people to use. A flat surface is best to learn on, and when you become more rollerblade savvy, you can incorporate some hills.
Don't: Choose a super-crowded area to rollerblade since you need room to practice controlling your speed and the direction you're moving.
When it comes to moving:
Do: Keep your knees soft to absorb any bumps and avoid injury.
Don't: Practice speeding up before you learn to stop.
S'Oliver
Jil Sander
Lola Cruz
ah, good idea!
1I've had my rollerblades since I was 13, but I never really used them. I've taken them out of hibernation recently (yes they still fit 10 years later) and have been rollin' around my apartment a bit. I can't really seem to get the hang of it again. And the one ankle hurts after about 10 minutes. I don't understand why. :-/
2It's like you've read my mind! I was just thinking how much I'd like to bike or run but it's too expensive for me to get a bike and too hot/humid for me to run.
3I definitely prefer rollerblading to biking! Especially since you can keep rollerblades in the trunk along with flipflops much easier than you can a bike.
You should also add "don't let your ankles turn in." A lot of beginners end up balancing on the inner edge the whole time (the knock-kneed look) which totally hurts the ankles. This also happens with ice skating, especially if the rental boots have lost their ankle support. So practice using both edges and keeping your ankles straight!
4In addition to keeping your knees soft, you want to make sure to keep your arms in front of you and lean forward. Seems logical but too many people stand up too straight and put their arms behind them (and not in an aero way) and then topple right over. Stay low and loose, but controlled.
5I am what I'd call a novice rollerblader and I'd like to get better at it. I tend to have issues with keeping my knees soft and I know I need to improve on that before I become better at it. One day, I hope I'm good enough to blade with my dog, a la Cesar Millan. That would be so cool!
6People who Rollerblade have the most amazing legs ever. I think I'll go get some!!
7I loved rollerblading when I was a kid! I should take it up again. Have to figure out where to rent rollerblades though ...
8I really need to take my rollerblades out of my trunk and start skating again! I think my biggest tip for beginners would be to *definitely* wear all your gear, especially wrist guards, because it will make you a little less afraid to fall (and less likely to get hurt when you do).
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