Roller Skating Safety Tips Rolling with Confidence and Protection
Ready to have the MOST FUN EVER on roller skates? Before you roll like Fred Martin or Tim McGuire, joining a Learn to Skate Program is the BEST way to start! The Roller Skating Association says these awesome programs help kids learn roller skating the safe way. Just like learning to swim or ride a bike, taking roller skating lessons teaches you cool tricks AND how to stay safe. With the right gear and some super simple lessons, you’ll go from beginner to confident skater fairly quickly. Let’s get ready to roll safely!
Safety Gear
Protective gear gives beginners the confidence to learn safely.
| Helmets Must fit snugly without wobbling Should cover forehead and back of head Look for skating or multi-sport certification Budget tip: Check secondhand stores for affordable options Buy Helmets |
Knee Pads Choose pads with full knee coverage Look for adjustable straps that stay in place Can be used for biking and skateboarding too Buy Knee Pads |
| Wrist Guards Prevent fractures during falls Essential for beginners learning balance Available at most sporting goods stores Buy Wrist Guards |
Elbow Pads Protect vulnerable elbow joints Complete your safety gear set Buy Elbow Pads |
| Protective Gear for Kids Protective Gear for Adult |
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Next Steps
Once properly equipped, enroll your child in a Learn to Skate Program. Fred’s daughter, Rose Martin, taught me as well as countless others using this program. Rinks have the Learn to Skate classes for adults too. These classes teach proper technique and safety skills in a fun, structured environment. View your rink’s website for classes.
Learning to Fall Safely
Falling Techniques to Prevent Injury
- Practice falling on padded surfaces
- Learn to fall forward on knee pads, not backwards
- Keep arms loose and relaxed
- Tuck and roll technique can help distribute impact
More Learn to Fall videos at the bottom of the page
Budget-Friendly Safety Tips
Skating safely doesn’t have to be expensive! Check local buy/sell groups for used protective gear, watch for end-of-season sales, and opt for multi-sport gear that works for different activities. Extend the life of your equipment with simple DIY repairs like replacing straps or cleaning pads. Stay safe without overspending!
Before You Roll
Take a minute to prepare. Check your skating area for smooth surfaces and clear away any rocks or debris that could trip you up. Make sure you’ve got good lighting and try to find spots without much traffic.
Your body needs prep too! Do a few quick stretches for your legs and ankles, and keep water nearby to stay hydrated. Most importantly, know your limits and start in safe, controlled areas like empty parking lots until you build confidence.
These simple checks take just minutes but can make your skating session much more enjoyable and safer. Now roll on and have fun!
Emergency Preparedness What to Do If an Accident Happens
- Keep first aid kit nearby
- Know basic first aid techniques
- Have emergency contact information accessible
- Consider taking a basic first aid course
Training Options
- There are other YouTube tutorial links on how to skate safely. Check out the channels on the skaters I’ve posted as they may have more than how to fall safely.
- Learn To Skate programs at your local roller rink
- Homeschool Skates have less people than a public skating session. Look for a Homeschool Skate near you. Let your confidence and skills grow before going to a Friday night or weekend night skating session. Practice, practice, practice.
YouTube Tutorials
https://www.youtube.com/@Skatie
https://www.youtube.com/@Dirtydeborahharry
https://www.youtube.com/c/ThatNicoleFiore
Disclaimer
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new physical activity. Individual fitness levels and health conditions vary.
4 Comments
Barbara
I’m not very coordinated so roller skating never went well for me. I could have used a course on falling safely! In fact, I think that could still benefit me now.
Jodi
Barbara you are not along in that thinking. Many times I was less coordinated in my shoes. Still am. A recent fall made me realize no matter the age, we need to be able to fall safely.
Paul B. Taubman, II
Where were you when I needed this info, Jodi?!?
I never got good at Roller Skating and would CRASH to the ground! Because of that, I never would go when friends would get together for a fun Friday night out back in the 70s and 80s. Can this old dog learn new tricks? Probably… Do I want to try? I dunno! LOL.
I am not good on ice skates either…
Thanks for sharing!
Paul.
Jodi
The rink was my second home. Even advanced skaters crash. Many years ago a friend of mine fell and her hand flew up in the air. She caught my jaw and I bit my tongue. It was very painful and bloody. I still have the scar on my tongue. Whoops!