Can you learn to roller skate at 40? How about 50? - Skate Takes (2024)

June 3, 2023 by Liz E.

As we share roller skating videos on social platforms, we often encounter people in the comments wondering….

Can you learn to roller skate at 40?…50?

YES, it’s never too late to learn to roller skate, as long as you are able. Our own personal roller skating story is proof that you can begin your roller skating journey after the age of 50. As long as you are able to participate safely, it’s absolutely possible to learn to roller skate later in life. In fact, we highly recommend it!

In this blog post, we will explore the journey of learning to roller skate at 40 and beyond… and how it’s absolutely possible to roll with confidence. So, let’s dive in!

Embrace a Growth Mindset…Don’t Give Up!

Learning anything new requires a positive mindset, and roller skating is no exception. Embrace a growth mindset, understanding that progress takes time and effort. Remember, you are never too old to learn and enjoy new experiences. With patience, determination, and a willingness to challenge yourself, you can master the art of roller skating and unlock a whole new world of fun, excitement and skate family.

Safety First:

At any age, safety should be a top priority. Invest in proper protective gear, which can include:

• Wrist guards – We HIGHLY recommend these at minimum, even if you opt for no other safety equipment. Falls will happen, and since we catch ourselves with our hands/wrists, wrist injuries are common if you don’t wear wrist guards. We wear them religiously, even in the roller rink, because we work with our hands and it’s just not worth the risk.
• Knee pads
• Elbow pads
• Well-fitting helmet (especially if you are learning to roller skate outside or on uneven surfaces). We even see people wear helmets in the roller rink.
• Padded crash shorts (especially if you are roller skating outdoors on uneven surfaces)

These safety measures will not only minimize the risk of injuries but also provide you with peace of mind as you navigate your roller skating journey.

Seek Professional Guidance

Professionals or more experienced roller skaters can teach you proper techniques, help you improve your form, and provide tips and tricks to accelerate your progress. Learning from an expert ensures that you develop the right habits from the beginning, making your roller skating journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Roller Skating Lessons in a Rink

Consider enrolling in roller skating lessons or workshops taught by experienced instructors. (If you are in Atlanta Metro, check out our list of roller skating lessons for adults in Atlanta.) They can provide valuable guidance tailored to your skill level. Most roller skating rinks offer some kind of lessons outside of regular roller skating sessions.

After visiting a rink for 2 sessions, we took a roller skating lesson at one of our local rinks, Hot Wheels. It was 1 hour, and the rink owner worked with us to show us different techniques to practice and answered our questions. What was especially helpful about it was that, while there were others there for the lesson, the rink was MUCH less busy than during a regular session. We could practice skating without worrying about kids skating everywhere or faster skaters zooming around us.

Online Roller Skating Tutorials

As we began to roller skate weekly, we also began watching roller skating videos at home. We had a million questions about how to do things, and went to Youtube to find answers. We learned SO MUCH including the basics of how to move, turn, stop, and even fall from Dirty Deborah Harry and her Dirty School of Skate (See her ‘Learn How to Roller Skate’ Youtube playlist).

Build Confidence Through Lots of Practice

Roller skating is a skill that improves with practice. By beginning in a controlled environment, such as an indoor roller rink or a smooth, open area, you can familiarize yourself with the basics. As you gain proficiency in the fundamentals, your confidence will naturally increase, allowing you to tackle more advanced techniques and maneuvers.

Pace Yourself and Have Fun

Remember, roller skating is about having fun! Avoid comparing your progress to others and focus on your personal growth. Set achievable goals and celebrate your milestones along the way.

Get Connected with Your Local Skate Family

We found that joining adult roller skating groups on Facebook was a great way to learn about adult roller skating nights and special events. Roller skating with adults who understand the etiquette of the roller skating rink floor is such a different experience from skating in a regular session full of kids and unpredictable skaters, so we highly recommend getting plugged in to adult roller skating events.

Learning to roller skate at 40 and beyond is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for self-expression, physical activity, nostalgia, and pure enjoyment. Embrace the challenge, cultivate a growth mindset, and surround yourself with supportive individuals who encourage your progress. Remember, it’s never too late to embrace the world of roller skating and roll with style and confidence. So, grab those skates, hit the rink, and let the magic of roller skating unfold, no matter what your age may be!

Category: Adult Roller Skating, Learning to Roller Skate, Roller Skating