Tired of the same old workout routine? Love skiing but hate waiting for the snow to fall? Well, have you ever heard of roller skiing? It’s a fun and challenging way to build endurance, improve your balance, and get a full-body workout without having to wait for winter. In this post, I’m going to show you just how easy it is to get started.
First, let’s address the elephant in the room – the lack of face-to-face instruction, especially in the U.K. So, do you really need a personal coach to learn roller skiing? Not necessarily. While it’s always good to have guidance from a professional instructor, the truth is, roller skiing is easy to learn on your own. Especially when YouTube has a range of videos made by both coaches and enthusiasts…and they are all free! If you’ve got some experience with skiing, ice skating, or rollerblading, you’re already halfway there. But fear not, even if you’ve spent most of your life glued to your couch, anyone can learn roller skiing with a bit of determination and practice. So why not save your money and get the basics down first? Then, when you’re ready to progress, you can invest in a coach to help you take your skills to the next level.
For roller skiing, you will need a pair of roller skis, boots, and poles. Make sure to choose the right size, and wear a helmet and other protective gear, such as wrist guards and knee pads. You don’t want to risk injury.
But before you go splurging on a new set of roller ski gear, let’s talk about the two types of roller skis and boots. Classic and skate roller skis are designed for different techniques, and so are classic and skate boots. Classic roller skis have longer wheels and are used for a technique similar to cross-country skiing, while skate roller skis have shorter wheels and are used for a technique similar to ice skating. Classic boots are more flexible and supportive, while skate boots are stiffer and provide more lateral support. Make sure to choose the right gear for your goals.
But here’s the best part: the boots you use for roller skiing can also be used for cross-country skiing in the snow. That means you can practice your technique and build your skills year-round, whether you’re on dry pavement or snow-covered trails. Plus, you’ll save some cash and avoid cluttering up your closet with multiple pairs of boots.
Finding a suitable location to practice is essential. Look for flat or gently sloping pavement with no traffic. Avoid bumpy or uneven surfaces as they can be dangerous, especially for beginners. If you’re not sure where to start, check out your local park or sports complex.
To enhance your roller skiing and by extension your cross-country skiing journey, consider joining roller ski clubs that offer valuable instruction and a supportive community. These clubs provide opportunities to learn from experienced skiers, improving your technique and helping you progress. They also offer a chance to connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for roller skiing. In addition to instruction, roller ski clubs often provide a platform to share routes and discover new trails, ensuring you have exciting and varied locations to explore. So, if you’re seeking guidance, camaraderie, and a place to share your adventures, joining a roller ski club could be the perfect way to spend your free time.
So, whether you’re a seasoned skier looking to mix up your training routine or a newbie who just wants to try something new, roller skiing is an easy and fun way to get outside and push your limits and definitely doable without a personal coach. Just remember to stay safe, wear a helmet, and always be aware of your surroundings.