Life can get expensive, and between the rising cost of living and the mounting expenses that come with adulthood it is always nice to get a break. There seems to be a price tag on just about everything, including our own self-care. As we constantly look for new ways to stay in shape it's important to find activities we can sustain even on a budget. Wouldn't it be great to have an activity that covers both our need to stay fit, get from one place to another, and socialize?
This is where rollerskating fits in. Rollerskating is an activity that has maintained its popularity for over 100 years, and is experiencing a revival as the pandemic compelled many people to find outdoor activities for socializing and getting off the computer screen. Roller skating is an activity that supports our physical and mental well being. Plan a long skate and you will feel your legs and glutes get a serious workout. Skate outdoors and you'll find that it is the perfect way to experience your local surroundings as you glide through urban landscapes, bike trails, or waterfront pathways. Skating is also a fantastic way to get around, to walk the dog, or burn some energy during the work day.
Picking roller skates is no easy task, especially with so many options available. Find out how to shop for the very best roller skates.
Is Roller Skating Expensive?
While images of fashionable roller skaters wearing designer clothing may have entered our social media feeds, roller skating is thankfully a very budget friendly pursuit. While roller skates for advanced skaters can cost upwards of $500, beginner skates can be as low as $50-$75 and you can easily find used skates online or at a secondhand sports store. Grab a set of protective knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards and you will be ready to start rolling!
Another reason skating is such a budget friendly activity is that you can pretty much skate anywhere there is pavement. You can start learning in your driveway, a quiet street, a local cul-de-sac, or even a parking lot or school tarmac after hours. Bicycle pathways are also excellent places to skate, and can be found in nearly every Canadian city.
Roller skating enthusiasts can also find plenty of joy in skating at a rink. Roller rinks are great places to socialize as they play loud music and often have colourful disco lights. They can make a fun night out with friends and family, and you can easily rent a pair of skates if you don't have your own pair.
Should I Buy Quad or Inline Skates?
When you do go out looking for skates, you will likely find yourself asking if you should get the 4-wheeled quad skates or the blade-style inline skates. The type you choose largely depends on how you plan to use your skates, and what you feel most comfortable moving in.
Quad skates are also known as traditional or artistic skates. They have two sets of parallel wheels at the front and heel of the skate. Outdoor versions have softer wheels for a smooth carriage outdoors, and they may come in higher or lower boots. Brands like Moxi make them stylish and in many different colours, and they are perfect if you prefer a retro look. Quad skates are also used in roller derby, and figure skaters will have special ones with narrow wheels.
Inline skates, known more commonly as 'roller blades', have narrow wheels in a line at the center of the skate. They tend to have a more sporty appeal, and are designed for longer wear outdoors. Versions of inline skates are also used for roller hockey and speed skating.
Which type of skate will you choose? Whatever you do, make sure you try both types on to see what you feel most comfortable in and help you achieve your purpose for skating. Compare brands and price points, and check for sales and discounts if you prefer to purchase brand new.
Canada is a great place to start roller skating, no matter what you think about the weather! Read more on why Canadians are getting into roller skating.
What is Learning to Rollerskate Like?
Learning to roller skate can be a challenge, just like learning how to ride a bicycle, but once you learn you will have a skill that will bring you enjoyment for years to come. Expect to feel off balance initially, and even a little nervous of falling! If you take a class, you can expect to learn basic movements for moving forward, breaking, and falling down safely. Keep advancing and you can learn some great moves for turning, gliding and even dancing! Keep in mind, however, that you will need to practice regularly to master many of these moves.
Can I Teach Myself How to Skate?
With a lot of commitment, discipline and patience, you can certainly teach yourself how to skate. There are hundreds of videos online posted by skating instructors that will model how you can do different movements on your skates. Thanks to mobile technology, you can watch many of these videos on your phone while you step out for your first practice session. Be careful not to drop your phone!
What equipment do you need to start rollerskating? Make sure you have all the supplies you need to get started.
Where Can I Find a Good Rollerskating Instructor or Rollerskating Teacher?
If you would really like to accelerate your learning you may want to consider hiring a private rollerskating instructor. How is a private roller skating budget friendly? First consider that learning anything requires a significant amount of time, and you should consider how much you value your own time if you are choosing to learn independently. Having a private instructor who knows exactly what skaters need to get moving will save you the time researching the internet. Secondly, finding group classes can be surprisingly tough, as skating still not as widespread as sports like swimming, dance, or gymnastics. If you have a group of ambitious skaters, you can work with a private teacher to organize your own program and sessions.
You can expect a good rollerskating teacher to work with you to identify exactly what level you are at in your skating so they can meet you where you are. They will collaborate with you to teach you the skills you need to stay safe, and get moving in a relatively short amount of time.
Finding a good roller skating teacher is easy thanks to Superprof Canada. On Superprof, you can find listings for dozens of roller skating instructors near you that have the knowledge and experience you need to get moving. Superprof tutors post profiles that contain their own professional photo, a quick bio on their background and skills, and the rates they charge per session. Browse profiles of prospective tutors and message the ones that you like best! You should be able to set up a meeting with your new teacher in no time.
What Can I Expect at My First Rollerblading Lesson?
At your first roller blading lesson you should expect to learn the basics:
- Safety precautions and gear
- How to get up without falling
- How to fall to minimize injury
- How to stand still and keep your balance
- Moving forward
- Braking or stopping using toe stops
As your lessons progress, you can start learning more complex moves such as skating backwards, or even skate dancing! Make sure you allot lots of time to practice as well, as skating requires lots of practice on your own times. If you only skate when you are receiving lessons, you may find that it will take much longer to start skating independently.
Are you thinking of purchasing your first pair of skates and are not sure whether to go inline or quad? Learn more about what the main differences are between inline and quad skates.
“I’m going rollerskating - what should I wear?” If you finding yourself asking this question, check out our style guide for rollerskaters.
What is the Average Rollerskating Lesson Price?
Roller skating prices can vary depending on who your instructor is and what their experience level is, the cost of living in your town or city, and the demand for skating instruction near you. Some boutique skating schools or rinks will charge a higher price depending on the content of the lessons, and some will be much cheaper if the class size is relatively large. Most group classes will cost $20-$30 a lesson, while private instruction may cost between $20-$50 an hour. Of course, you will find lessons priced higher or lower - make sure you do your research before you start!
Find a private roller skating tutor on Superprof today!
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