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Learn
and Improve
Inline skating is one of the safest sports around, with major
injury rates lower than other common sports such as baseball and
bicycling. One reason for this is skaters often wear
protective gear. Another and equally important reason that
reduces injury rates is that many skaters take a lesson before
they start skating.
The
reality is that skating is not very intuitive. It is not
natural to use the heel brake and most skaters do not
automatically skate in an efficient manner. Frankly, if you
put time and money into purchasing skates you should also put a
bit more into learning the sport properly.
Beginners
Certified Instructors: The International Inline Skating Association created a professional instructor certification program called the Inline Certification Program (ICP). As of January 2006, the instructor program is operated by the United Skate School Group. All geographic areas outside North America are now handled by the International ICP.
Camp Rollerblade: Zephyr Inline Skate Tours has teamed with Rollerblade to create a series of Camp Rollerblade skate camps. These camps are designed for adults or families (kids must be accompanied by an adult) and absolutely no experience is necessary. New two-day weekend camps will be held in 13 major US cities in 2006.
Free
Lessons: Two organizations have generously created programs in
which new skaters can get free initial lessons. FreeSkateLesson.com
is a group of inline skating schools across the United States who
have teamed with Rollerblade and Zephyr Inline Skate Tours to
offer free lessons to the general public. See their site for
more information and to register for a free lesson.
Additionally, the National
Skate Patrol is a volunteer force which, among other things, gives free braking lessons.
Advanced
Skaters
If you are
an advanced skater and looking for help in improving your form,
you have several options. First, consider joining a skate
club or racing team in your area. Second, consider
skating in a marathon and joining an online marathon training program. Third, consider taking a clinic from a pro such as Eddy Matzger or Barry
Publow.
Rules
of the Road
Whether
you are a beginner skater or an advanced skater, you should still
remember to pay attention to the IISA's Rules
of the Road for skaters.
Become a Certified Instructor
To become a Certified Skating Instructor in North America please contact United Skate Schools Group.
Resources
for Instructors
Tips
and tricks on teaching kids
Subscribe
to the Certified Instructor Email List Serv
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