Learning a new skill is a nerve-racking experience in the best of times. Strapping wheels to your feet and trying to learn balance, control, and speed is nothing short of scary. Whether you’re old or young, just learning or teaching your kids, here are Rainbow Rink’s 4 favorite skating tips to make the lessons a little easier.

Wear comfortable clothing.

Learn to Skate at Rainbow Rink!

When you’re learning a new sport, the last thing you want is to feel constricted. Wear loose, comfortable clothing when learning to skate. If you’re worried about falling, consider wearing protective gear like knee pads and wrist guards.

Use your knees.

A beginner skater’s best defense against falling is knowing how to use your knees. Bend your knees slightly when skating to give yourself better control. If you feel yourself falling, hit your knees instead of catching yourself with your hands. This cushions your fall and limits wrist or hand injuries. Practice falling to your knees on the carpet before you venture onto the skating floor.

Stick to the wall.

When you’re learning to skate, it’s best not to push yourself too far too fast. Skate near the wall until you’re comfortable on your skates. Skating by the wall gives you balance and guidance, and keeps you out of the way of faster, more experienced skaters.

Buy your own skates.

If you’re ready to invest in a new hobby, it pays to fully commit. When you buy your own roller-skates, you’re guaranteeing a set of wheels that’s fitted to your size, skill, and level of experience. Buy skates for speed, maneuverability, or tricks. As you skate the boots will mold to your feet, making it easier to control your wheels (and stay comfortable) when skating.

Still not steady on your skates? Practice during our Summer Afternoon Skating Sessions before rolling into busier weekend skate events.