Rollerblading Course: First Steps—The French Fries and Pizza Positions
Want to learn how to rollerblade? We’ve prepared a beginner’s rollerblading course that introduces you to the basics of this sport and helps you develop your skills. Where to start? First, master the two fundamental positions: the French fries position and the pizza position, as well as the skill of shifting your body weight. Take your first steps in a safe place, such as a park. Remember to wear a helmet and pads to protect yourself in case of a fall.
Before trying to skate on asphalt, perform a few exercises on a stable surface, like grass. It’s important to learn how to shift your body weight from one leg to the other. Equally important is maintaining the correct body posture and learning how to fall correctly.
Two Essential Rollerblading Stances
Kickstart your rollerblading journey by mastering the “fries” and “pizza” stances. What do these amusing terms mean? In the “fries” stance, your rollerblades are parallel, toes pointing forward, with your body slightly leaning forward. Your knees should align over your toes, hands can rest on your thighs, and your gaze should be directed ahead.
The “pizza” stance involves positioning your feet so that your heels are together and toes point outward, forming a pizza slice or a V shape. Knees should be bent, and your body slightly tilted forward.
Weight Transfer
Another exercise that will boost your confidence on asphalt is transferring your weight from one leg to the other. The toes and knee of the weight-bearing leg should align with your chin. The other leg remains relaxed and light, allowing you to lift it and make gentle movements. Repeat this exercise several times, shifting your weight and positioning yourself correctly, alternating between your right and left leg.
How To Fall While Rollerblading
Especially when you’re just starting out, losing balance is common. Therefore, it’s crucial to learn how to fall correctly. If you feel unstable while skating, position your rollerblades parallel, lower yourself by bending your knees, and extend your arms forward. This technique helps prevent falling backward.
If a fall is unavoidable, remember to land on your knees first, followed by your elbows and forearms. Never extend your arms straight out in front of you—they are vulnerable and prone to injury. Knees are stronger and more resilient, so aim to land on them first. Additionally, your knee pads will absorb the impact, providing extra protection.
Riding on Hard Surfaces
Once you feel confident, it'’s time to tackle more challenging terrain. Start your asphalt journey with a few simple exercises.
The French Fry-Pizza Stance
Begin by moving in the pizza position, taking small steps. Ensure your toes are pointed outward while your heels are close together. Lean your body slightly forward and keep your eyes ahead. After a few steps, switch to the French fry position—align your toes forward, in line with your knees and chin. Try to cover the longest distance possible in this stance.
“Scooter” on Rollerblades
The next exercise is the “scooter” on rollerblades. Extend your arms in front of you (you can rest them on your knees), shift your weight onto one leg (extended forward), and start pushing off with the other, free leg positioned behind, just past the heel.
Repeat the exercise, alternating legs. The final exercise involves pushing off alternately with the left and right leg.
Remember to avoid common mistakes—don’t stiffen your legs; your knees should always be slightly bent and flexible. Keep your upper body strong and stable. Also, avoid spreading your legs too wide. The distance between your feet should match the width of a fist.
Rollerblading is an excellent way to spend time actively and have fun. Train and refine your technique with our rollerblading course. Check out more lessons and enjoy yourself!
