Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, learning how to stop when roller skating is a skill worth mastering. Even for those with plenty of experience, stopping techniques can be improved to enhance comfort and safety.
In the following blog, we at Midlands Roller Arena are taking a closer look at stopping on roller skates. We hope that by providing an overview of the most popular techniques, beginners, and even those with experience, can improve their skills. Continue below.
Roller skating is a fun and exhilarating activity, offering a fantastic way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. However, without learning a few fundamental skills it can be challenging.
Before we explore some of the most popular stopping techniques, we want to emphasise why stopping is so important.
Learning how to stop when roller skating not only improves safety but also opens up a world of possibilities for control, speed management and skill advancement. Wherever you choose to skate, your enjoyment and safety hinges on being able to stop effectively and confidently.
For the majority, learning how to stop when roller skating starts with the snowplow. It is a basic technique that helps beginners control their speed and come to a gradual stop. This is how to perform it:
The key to this movement is control and accuracy. Try to avoid any erratic or jerky movements.
This technique is more advanced, providing greater control and precision. It is particularly useful for skaters looking to improve their stopping abilities and manoeuvrability.
Here’s how to perform a T-stop:
This is an excellent technique for those looking to advance their skills. However, beginners may wish to focus on less advanced ways of stopping first.
Looking to add some flair when stopping on rollerblades?
The power slide is a fun and challenging option, which may be more beneficial for those who wish to know how to stop fast on roller skates.
It involves sliding one foot sideways while keeping the other foot straight. This is how it is done:
The power slide requires practice and confidence, as it can be more challenging to execute. However, for more advanced skaters it can add some real flair to their technique.
Although mastering stopping techniques is important, it is also vital to be safe when skating. Wear protective gear, including a helmet, knee and elbow pads, wrist guards and suitable footwear.
If you are new to roller skating, you may wish to skate in controlled environments. Ensure you stay vigilant of your surroundings, watching for obstacles and communicating with others.
Finally, regularly check your equipment and ensure your roller skates are well-maintained. Repetition is key at the start, so master one technique and work on your confidence before trying more advanced techniques.
We hope you enjoyed our guide on how to stop when roller skating. By practising these techniques and following safety guidelines, you can progress in roller skating with more confidence and stability.
If you are struggling to master certain techniques, such as how to stop on roller skates when going fast, we are here to accommodate you. We offer skate lessons to all at our flagship centre in Lutterworth. Contact us to learn more.
