Want to get those ski sensations during the off season? Want to improve your skiing? Roller blading might offer the solution to both of these needs without a flight to the southern hemisphere.
The mechanics of roller blading and skating can certainly be different than skiing. Instead of focusing on the differences, lets talk about the similarities.
Skating involves changing edges using a lateral tipping movement. This mimics changing edges on skis extremely well. In the video above, there are moments on the ramp where the “edge change” is sequential. This would create a wedge (opposing edges), rather than the clean edge change associated with carving (corresponding edges).
Rotary movements in skating are similar to skiing. You can use upper body rotation, but as in skiing leg rotation gives a more subtle and desirable control over the outcome. The short turns demonstrated in the video show mostly leg rotation with the hip pointing towards the camera.
Fore aft is the main reason that I got back into skating. After my first season as a ski instructor it was pointed out how far in the backseat I had become accustomed to skiing. You just cannot do this on skates. If you do, you fall backwards, and learn quickly where the center of your foot and balance needs to be in order to prevent this.
So get out there are make some turns. Whether on skis or blades, have a great time!