In the words of Jaret Reddick, We've all gotta start from somewhere.
With that being said, here are some tips for beginning roller skating, by a beginner.
1. First get some skates.
Please, as hard as it is, don't get cheap off-brand skates. They're cheap for a reason.
You're going to spend more money replacing broken skates then if you was to just get the proper ones in the first place.
If you're from the UK, Skate Hut is a good reliable place for anything Skates, Skateboards, Scooters, anything like that.
They're a shop based in Manchester but they do sell online, with extremely quick delivery. (This is not a sponsored ad btw I swear)
My skates are by a recognized brand called Moxi.
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2. Ok, so you got yourself some skates. Now what?
If you're going to watch videos, Stay away from YouTube videos that say things like How to be a pro skater in one day. Instead, watch videos that give you step by step instructions. (If they say to start with 'bubbles' or something similar, it's a good start)
Now, where to start? I would stay away from skate parks and busy streets. Instead, go to empty outside car parks, places with smooth, clean paths or quiet roads, or outside Shopping centers/malls.
Skating rinks are also a good place, and you can hire skates there if you're still on the fence.
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This is where I personally am going to practice. Smooth, Clean paths and Lots of things such as benches, lampposts and other things for support.
(Remember to just use these as a way to keep your yourself up as you get started, not to use them as a crutch. The idea is to eventually not need something there.)
I would also recommend staying away from Indoor car parks and indoor shopping centers/malls. Yes, these places are amazing, but there's also security, and I don't want to accidentally get any of y'all into trouble.
If you are going, however, I would recommend you go with someone else for backup.
4. What to take?
For the LOVE OF CHAOS, and I can not express this anymore, WEAR PROTECTION! I would recommend getting Knee, Elbow and Wrist Guards.
First, Bring a bag big enough for skates (please don't put your skates on in the house and then get on the bus and shit, it's gonna get ugly)
Or get a skate leash or wrap a small towel around the plates and carry them like that.
I would also bring some sort of small medical kit if you want. Accidents can happen to anyone, doesn't matter how skilled you are,
And on that note,
5. IT'S GOING TO HURT, OK?
There's no way around it. You're going to fall, trip, and get bumps and bruises. It's just something you accept.
And obviously that's not to scare you, but to let you know what's in store.
A lot of people see these videos on YouTube and TikTok and think "Ayo, let's try that out."
It's not easy, ok? Those people have been doing it for years. When you start, only do what you're skill level allows.
Keep at that, and eventually you'll build your skill to what you want. Just keep at it and don't give up.
Too many people fall and give up because nobody told them that's what happens.
Anyways, this has been Blue Hybrid's guide to beginner roller skating. (By a beginner)
Hope you enjoy and if you do decide to try it out, good luck and in the end of the day:
Never Fear the Fall!
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(Picture of your's truly looking dramatic and awkward at the same time)
