Inline skating advice? (haha need it BADD) =D?

Question

Okay, so I go to the local skating rink and have been having to use their skates which only have like apec 5 in them (ugh) and im buying these.http://www.target.com/Roller-Derby-Spartan-Line-Skates/dp/B000YPR518/sr=1-1/qid=1219514373/ref=sr_1_1/602-7107367-3543842?ie=UTF8&index=target&field-browse=1038604&rh=k%3Ainline%20skates%2Cn%3A3674721%2Cp%5F3%3A%24100-%24199&page=1

my freind is a really good skater and she is teaching me how to cross-skate, and bounce skate, etc. but any advice on how to go faster and cross skate with being afraid to fall?

Answer 1

Good Luck. But if your new to the concept then you may fall once or twice, but that is because your new to it and everybody falls sometimes. Just Keep your body straight and bend and little forward and bend your knees a bit. This helps a little with balance especially when going fast. By the way, nice skates. Good choice.

Answer 2

ABEC ratings are essentially meaningless for skate bearings.  Companies like to advertise them because it is a number and people assume bigger numbers are better.

The big thing to go faster is to improve your "style" and practice.

The base position is with the knees and hips bent.  Knees, nose, and toes should be vertical.  The bent knees allow you to push your legs our towards the side (not back) farther and makes you go faster.

Go slow and think about your stride.  You should be pushing through the heel with the skates pointed almost straight ahead.

When you are done pushing the skate to the side, it should return under you to where you can balance on it ... or farther and then start pushing outwards with the other foot.

Answer 3

Balance, 'tis key

After a while you'll be more confident and know how to move your body to keep from falling