black and white photo of person skating backwards

How to Roller Skate Backwards: A Step-by-Step Guide Master Backward Roller Skating

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In this post, we will look into how to roller skate backwards! Roller skating in a backwards direction can be a lot of fun and a great way to show off to friends.

It takes a bit of practice to get the hang of it, but once you do, you’ll be able to enjoy all kinds of new tricks and stunts. Let’s get started!

Learn the basics of roller skating backwards

creating a v shape with roller skates Pin

If you want to take your skating to the next level, learning to skate backwards is a great way to challenge yourself.

It may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, you’ll be skating backwards like a pro in no time.

The key is to start with your feet in a “v” shape, with your toes pointing inwards.

From there, simply push into the ground and you will find that your skates push away from each other, pull your heels in towards each other until you end up in a “v” shape again.

Once you have completed this manoeuvre you will notice that you have moved backwards. Yip yip hurrah!

You’ve taken the first step toward skating backwards; simply repeat, and you’re on your way.

You may need to adjust your feet slightly as you skate, but soon you’ll find your rhythm and be skating backwards with ease.

Another way to skate backwards is to use the same manoeuvre but instead of using both feet, keep one in a straight line and push off with the other foot in the same way as you did with two.

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Understand how to turn on your roller skates/rollerblades from going forward to going backwards

Whilst going in a forward motion on your roller skates, bring your skates in a straight line one behind the other, lift the rear foot off the ground, and apply your weight to the heel of the other foot so that you are effectively doing a wheely one skate, twist your hips so that your foot that is on the ground turns 180°.

Whilst you’re carrying out this manoeuvre you will need to raise your arms to shoulder level and slightly bent, as you turn point in the direction of travel, you will also need to turn your head and keep an eye on where you are going.

After you have turned and are now travelling in a backward direction, you will notice that the position of your arms and head has changed.

Your arms should now be at your sides and slightly bent with your palms facing backwards, meanwhile, you should be looking over your left shoulder.

Build up momentum when roller skating backwards

Now that you know how to turn around on your roller skates and you are travelling in a backward direction, it’s time to start building up some speed.

The best way to do this is by using your edges. When you skate forwards, you use the inside edge of your skate, but when skating backwards, you will use the outside edge.

To build up speed, start by gliding on both skates in a straight line. Once you have found your balance, begin to lean to the right and transfer your weight onto your right skate.

You should feel your left skate come off the ground slightly. As you lean to the right, use your right foot to push off the ground and glide to the left.

Continue alternating sides until you have built up enough speed.

How to stop when roller skating backwards

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Now that you know how to turn around and build up speed on your roller skates, it’s time to learn how to stop.

When skating forwards, you use your toe brakes to slow down and stop. However, when skating backwards, you will use your heel brakes.

To slow down, simply press your heels down into the ground. For a quick stop, press both heels down into the ground at the same time.

You can also use your toe stops to slow down and stop, but it’s not recommended as it can be difficult to control your speed and you may end up going too fast.

If you need to make a quick stop, it’s best to use your heel brakes.

If you don’t have brakes on your skates, slow down by bringing your heels together forming a “v” shape, and move your feet back out into a straight line before your heels touch or this could result in a sudden stop and a fall, repeat until you have slowed enough to stop by bringing your heels together.

Practice, practice, practice!

Now that you know the basics of skating backwards, it’s time to practice. Start by skating in a straight line, and then turn around and skate backwards.

Practice stopping and turning around. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at skating backwards. Soon, you’ll be able to skate backwards with ease!

Can Rollerblade Tricks Help in Mastering Backward Roller Skating?

Rollerblade tricks for skating enthusiasts can indeed aid in mastering backward roller skating.

By practicing tricks such as the T-stop, parallel slide, and powerslide, skaters enhance their balance, control, and ability to maneuver backwards.

Through consistent training and incorporating these tricks into their routine, enthusiasts can refine their skills and become proficient in the art of backward roller skating.

Conclusion

As we can see from the tips above, skating backwards is not easy, but with a little practice it truly is a show-stopper and you will be the envy of your friends once you have mastered this technique.

We hope that you have picked up some valuable tips and as mentioned practice makes perfect.


FAQ

Why should I learn how to skate backwards?

Skating backwards is a great way to improve your skating skills. It helps you develop balance and coordination, and it’s also a lot of fun! It’s also a great way to show off in front of friends.

What is the best way to practice skating backwards?

The best way to practice skating backwards is to start by skating in a straight line. Then turn around and skate backwards. Practice stopping and turning around. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at skating backwards.

How do I stop when skating backwards?

When skating forwards, you use your toe brakes to slow down and stop. However, when skating backwards, you will use your heel brakes. To slow down, simply press your heels down into the ground.

What is the best way to turn around when skating backwards?

The best way to turn around when skating backwards is to raise your arms to shoulder level and slightly bent, as you turn point in the direction of travel, you will then be able to see where you are going.

I’m having trouble building up speed when skating backwards. Any tips?

The best way to build up speed when skating backwards is by using your edges. When you skate forwards, you use the inside edge of your skate but when skating backwards, you will use the outside edge.

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