Hey, everyone. It’s Shorty here from Shorty Skate Series, and today we’re diving into emergency stops for downhill roller skating. Downhill skating can be exciting, but it’s essential to know how to stop or bail safely when things get too fast. First up, we have to turn around toe stop.
If you can do a turn around toe stop on flat ground, then this is a great and safe way to slow down or stop when going downhill. I like to use only one toe stop because having my front skate with all four wheels on the ground feels more stable.
But if you want to stop faster, you can use both toes stops in a staggered stance. Next, we’re going to get a bit more dramatic with a squat low and knee slide. I have a roller derby background, so falling on my knees comes naturally to me.
If you wear knee pads, this move is awesome because you can drop to a knee quickly in any situation. Just remember to lower yourself gently to avoid hurting your knee. Doing this on rough surfaces might wear out your knee pad and the front of your roller skate. So just be aware.
You can also turn this move into a baseball slide by sliding out on one hip as soon as you touch your knee down. Our third technique is the tight curve, followed by a dash into the grass. This move is perfect if you don’t have knee pads
Or you don’t want to scratch up your skates. Just remember to keep your feet moving like you’re running once you hit the grass as you won’t be able to roll anymore. Now, if you are near some soft grass and you need to stop quickly, the next technique is for you.
If the previous technique is too quick for your feet, then rolling becomes the safest way to bail. Taking a few steps onto the grass can help reduce your speed, but if there’s no time or space, just go straight into the roll.
To do it safely, turn your head to the side and roll over your shoulder. Remember to relax and just let it happen naturally. If you want to reduce your speed before trying any of these techniques, a quick t-stop drag can help. But when going fast, watch out for your ankle
Because it will feel a lot of pressure. Also, this move can wear your wheels on rough surfaces. Last but not least, we have the tight U-turn. This move works best on a wider path. On narrower paths use a quick t-stop for speed control first.
To execute the move, split your stance and press firmly into the edges of your skates in the direction you want to turn. Keep leaning until you’ve made half a circle or a 180 degree turn. The harder you lean, the quicker you turn. I hope these five techniques help you
When you’re skating downhill and the end seems far away. Remember, practice makes progress. Try these moves in a safe environment before hitting those steep hills. And if this is your first time downhill, wear safety gear. If you like this video, please like share and subscribe to my YouTube
Channel Shorty’s Skate Series for more skating tips and tricks.
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