Even with good stance, you will eventually fall. But, falls do not have to be out of control, and a good skater can fall well. Use the information below to make sure that your ability to manage a fall is as high as the level you want to skate, and you will always feel comfortable on wheels.
Wear Protective Gear
Safety gear will protect your wrists, head, knees and elbows, but this gear does not replace common sense. Your hands contain the smallest bones in your body, and your head is the most delicate. The protruding parts that are your knees and elbows are very important joints for other activities in life. They cannot always safely break falls, even with guards and a helmet.
Do Not Fight the Fall
When you are losing your balance and expect a fall, do not look down, flail your arms or fight the fall. Those actions will throw you more off-balance and add to the momentum of impact.
Use Your Knees and Your Cheeks
There is a chance of recovery from a fall if your center of gravity is lowered as much as possible. Bend your knees and squat low with the core of your body shifted forward over the skates. If the fall continues, try to use either of your naturally padded butt cheeks (not the center tailbone) to land.
Roll With the Crunches
A gently rolling fall reduces the force of impact by spreading the contact area. If you want to try this, keep arms close to your body, roll as you fall and allow your protective gear to absorb as much impact as possible. Stay loose and protect your head and face. Try this on grass or carpeting.
It’s All in Your Head
Don’t get excited or freeze up mentally. Stay relaxed and keep your cool. That way, you will remember the techniques listed above and you won't damage tense muscles.
A Fall is Not Break Time
Do not lay with your body spread out after a fall. Draw your legs up close to your body, keep hands and arms off the skating surface. Don't become an obstacle for other skaters to fall over. Get up as soon as possible.
Practice Makes Perfect
First practice falling indoors, on soft grass, and then on pavement until it seems almost normal. Of course, wear pads as you practice and every time you put on your skates.
Other Safety Considerations
