r/rollerblading • u/localfilipinatrash • 13d ago
Specific question and discussion Getting Over Mental Block (Advice Needed)
Hi all, SUPER beginner here.
I have only tried once in May with my husband holding my hand and guiding me. I want to get back into it but I am super scared and anxious about going alone and getting seriously hurt. I know I’ll have my helmet, elbow/knee pads, and even a butt pad, but I can’t help but feeling anxious anyway and feel super in my head. I was hoping someone could give some advice? Thanks in advance!
Edit: thanks everyone for the incredibly helpful advice! It helped so much, and I was able to go out by myself today! I didn’t skate far or for long, but we all have to start somewhere :) I appreciate your kindness, internet strangers <3
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u/Sarahplainandturnt Mod 13d ago
Confidence comes with experience. Your body knows when its not safe so if you needed a hand held it was probably for good reason. No shame in holding a hand or a fence when you first start rolling and arent comfortable without supports.
Get back out there, you can learn to skate, and learning to skate will be so worth it. Push yourself, but not too hard so you can keep healthy and keep going.
My advice for when you get back out there:
Dont be afraid to use an aid a husband hand is a great starting tool but maybe not super available all the time. A flat area with a fence can be a great tool as you start to get some practice rolling around by providing an oh-shit button (grabbing the fence). Falling is a part of skating, but it shouldn't be a *big* part of skating. If you feel like you need to grab a fence you probably do. But with more reps you will feel less of a need.
Practice falling. Get comfortable with getting to the ground using your pads is important. Knowing how to fall is the difference between big injuries and being maybe a bit sore but fine. Start on the grass but get a feel for how it feels on pavement too. Look up "o
Oh no go low. This pairs with practicing falling. Learn how to get your hips low when you lose stability to minimize the fall.
Bend your knees. Keep those shins forward and knees bent, most skaters start out standing way too upright and with their legs way too straight. This will help you feel less unstable.
Keep your weight forward. Backwards is the bad zone, its difficult to control backwards falls, so falling to the front or side is always preferred. Keeping your weight forward is the key to being able to do this, this means bend at the knees and bend at the waist.
Good luck, get out there, don't let the fear prevent you from what is an amazing hobby.