How to Turn with Rollerblades

You can't always go forward on rollerblades so learning how to turn is important. This basic turn will help you to avoid obstacles as well as spin to a stop. Practice this technique on a wide flat surface a few times before trying out in a real skating situation.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start from a controlled glide on your skates. Build up a little speed as you approach your practice spot. Keep your knees bent with your shins pushing forward on your boots.

2. Push out your right foot (or dominant foot) into a 45-degree angle with heels about 6 inches apart. To practice this turn, start with your feet quite far apart. You can tuck your feet closer together as you get used to turning.

3. Turn toward your right or dominant foot. Look in the direction you are turning with your weight over your dominant foot. Allow your other foot to follow along. All your weight should be on your lead foot until you've completed the turn.

4. Keep your other foot at an angle and you will turn effortless in a circle. You may spin around more than once but that is OK. Just stay in the angled stance until you've slowed down enough to put your feet back to the parallel position.

5. Practice this turn going in the other direction. You will most likely depend on your dominant foot to turn, but you never know when you'll need to go the other way.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep an eye on where you are turning. Looking in the direction of the turn will help you keep your balance and prevent you from skating into an obstacle.

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