LIFE

Ever since you saw that TikTok influencer glide across your screen on her bright purple roller skates, you haven't stopped thinking about getting a pair of your own. But all those figure eights and spins look...hard.

When picking up a new skill, it can be easy to get discouraged if everything looks effortless online. Remember: what you don't see on social media are the hours and hours of practicing behind those picture-perfect, postable skating montages. With a little confidence and dedication, you def have what it takes to try out skating or blading all on your own. 

If your 2023 resolution is to become an expert roller skater or roller blader, here's some important tips to keep you safe (and stylish!) while you learn. 

1. Choosing skates or blades

There are almost *too* many options out there when it comes to selecting wheels that are both reliable and chic. The first decision that any roller enthusiast has to make is whether roller skates or roller blades are right for them. 

If you're imagining casually coasting around and learning trendy dances on wheels, roller skates might be the perfect fit for you. Because their wheels are spaced out in pairs, almost like wheels on a car, skates generally feel more stable. Plus, skates have that classic, retro aesthetic—big Stranger Things season four vibes.

If you're hoping to go fast and go far, roller blades (or inline skates) are what you'll need. Roller blades will initially feel harder to balance since their wheels are arranged in one straight line, but will end up giving you a lot more speed and control over longer distances. Blading is also considered a bit more of a workout, so gals who are looking to burn off some extra energy might prefer this option. 

The best part? We've picked out two examples below that can serve as skating or blading shopping inspo!

Rainbow Rider, $109, Moxi Skates

Advantage Pro Rollerblade, $100, Dick's Sporting Goods

2. Staying safe

@impalaskate

You've heard it million times before: safety first. But, tbh, nothing puts a damper on your skate sesh like a bruised knee or a bleeding elbow. And head injuries can be super serious if you're not wearing the right protective gear.

Your skating safety toolkit *must* include a well-fitting helmet, aka one that sits just above your eyebrows, feels snug and doesn't wiggle or lift when you shake your head back and forth.  Experts recommend hard-shell helmets over soft-shell ones, since they often provide more back-of-the-head coverage (which will be useful if you ever accidentally fall backwards). No matter what, you should never, ever skate without a helmet.

You might also consider grabbing some knee pads, elbow pads and/or wrist guards to prevent scrapes and scratches. These are especially useful for new skaters because they can make falling less scary and less painful. 

3. Keeping the faith

@moxirollerskates

Once you're equipped with the right skates or blades and the right safety gear, you'll still need to bring the right attitude with you. Whether you're practicing at the neighborhood indoor rink or the empty parking lot down the street (pro tip: unoccupied outdoor tennis or basketball courts can also be good spots!), you've got to stay positive.

Falling, tripping and getting frustrated are inevitable parts of learning to skate or blade, but you have to be gentle with yourself when you make mistakes. You'll have so much more fun if you are able to laugh off those embarassing slips when they happen every once and a while. No one—not even the TikTok influencer girlies—becomes a master skater overnight.

And who knows? With the skates, the gear and an enthusiastic outlook, you might actually surprise yourself with how quickly you can learn. 

Looking for more creative ways to get moving? Check out these articles:
❣️ It's National Hiking Day! Here's how to find the best hikes near you
❣️ 5 new workouts to glow up your routine
❣️ Indoor workouts to raise your heart rate even when it's freezing

Learning to roller skate or roller blade?
Show us your progress on Instagram @girlslifemag!

Slider image: @rollerskatingprincess
Top image: @frankvinyl_skates

by Madelon Basil | 2/8/2023