If you're new to the sport of inline skating then you'll definitely want to check out the answers to these frequently asked questions about rollerblading.

FAQ #1: Do you have lessons for beginners?

Yes, we have a number of inline skating lessons for beginners! Check out the Learning to Skate category under Suggested Reading. If you're concerned about where to start skating, then it's best to read finding the Right Place to find out where to go to learn the basic maneuvers. How to Skate has four, inline skating techniques and a number of rollerblading tips to help you stand, stop, turn, and stride and glide. There is also a tip about how long you need to practice in Practice Makes Perfect.

FAQ #2: What should I look for when I buy inline          skates?

Buying a pair of inline skates for the first time can seem like a daunting task. To make an informed decision, it's best to know something about inline skates before you head to the store. There's an introduction to the inline skate manufacturers, as well as specific information about K2 , Salomon, Rollerblade, and UltraWheels. Socks, brands, and sizing are also discussed.

When you go to the store, make sure you wear the same type of socks that you'll be wearing when you go skating. If you plan on wearing thick, cotton, tube socks, wear these socks to the shop. If you think you'll be wearing a thinner, cotton-synthetic sock, wear a pair when you go to the store. If you'll be wearing a thin, specialty sock that skiers use to wick sweat towards the outer layers, put them when you try on skates.

Try on a brand from each manufacturer in a size that's closest to your shoe size. If you're a woman, try on a K2 Impulse, Salomon Motion 8 Ti Women's, Rollerblade Zetrablade W, and an Ultra Wheels Matrix for Women. Sometimes, you can eliminate a manufacturer because the skate just doesn't feel comfortable. It may not be wide enough, the liner may be too tight, or your toes are being pinched because there is no half-size.

After you've selected a manufacturer, try on skates within that brand that are a half-size larger and a half-size smaller than your shoe size. Press your ankle against the heel of the skate and wiggle your toes. If your toes are crammed against the front of the skate, they're too tight. If your foot moves around inside the skate while you hold your foot up, they're too large. Zero in on the correct size. How will you know? Well, you'll have a fit that's snug.

FAQ #3: What is the difference between inline skating         & rollerblading?

Inline skating is the official term for the sport and is synonymous with rollerblading. The commonly misused term of rollerblading is due to the company Rollerblade, which manufactures inline skates. This lead to the generic use of the term rollerblade to stand for all inline skates, even those made by other companies. This is similar to the use of the brand names like Xerox and Kleenex.

FAQ #4: What is trail skating?

A. Skating on rollerblading trails is all about rolling on marked, paved paths that can be found inside parks, on waterfronts, and even in preserves and/or sanctuaries. Sometimes, the skater needs to do some street skating to get from one part of the trail to the next because not all trails are continuous. Rollerblading trails are best for the recreational, inline skater who wants to get fit by rolling longer distances and have fun at the same time in a safe, controlled environment away from crowds and noise.

FAQ #5: Do you stress fitness while inline skating?

A. Yes, definitely! Our approach is to help the skater build his or her strength and endurance by stressing inline skating fitness via the number of rolls each week, continuity in the skates from week-to-week, and the distance of each roll. In addition, we encourage sprinting, where appropriate, on flat, straight stretches.

If you're new to inline skating and you need some instructions on how to skate properly, you've come to the right place. Four basic maneuvers are covered including establishing the proper stance, the heel stop for stopping, parallel turning for changes in direction, and striding and gliding, which shows the beginner how to skate in a smooth, efficient manner.