Inline Speed Skating

Understanding Inline Speed Skating

Inline speed skating, often referred to as roller speed skating, involves skating with the objective of attaining maximum velocities. This sport is typically competitive, with participants racing solo or in teams, striving for the quickest time achievable.

Races may occur indoors or outdoors and feature prominently in various major sporting events globally. To master inline speed skating, it is advisable to first become proficient in other skating forms before attempting this discipline. Race skaters utilise boots fitted with three or four wheels. It is essential to differentiate inline speed skating from ice-based speed skating.

Speed Potential with Speed Skates

Professional inline skaters regularly exceed speeds of 40 mph (64.37 kph), with some instances recorded of skaters surpassing 70 mph when descending slopes.

To achieve such speeds, the technique utilised by inline speed skaters varies from other skating forms. The larger wheels necessitate greater stride strength, involving twisting and rocking of the hips to optimise force and power transfer whilst skating. Moreover, strokes need to be deeper and larger to generate adequate power. Overall, turning on speed skates is typically more challenging. This technique means that inline speed skating offers excellent full-body cardiovascular exercise.

Beginning with Speed Skating

It is advisable to be at ease and self-assured with standard inline skating before progressing to speed skating. While respectable velocities can be attained with recreational and freeskates, acquiring a pair of Speed Skates is essential for reaching top speeds. Indoor speed skating generally occurs on a plastic-coated wooden surface, while outdoor skating is performed on conventional pavements or roads.

Although you can pursue speed skating independently, joining a local club can assist in honing your technique and discovering optimal practice locations.