InLine Skating With JO ANN

Do Ice Skating Tricks on Rollerblades

2007-10-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

Some ice skating moves can be done on inline skates. It's really fun to do figure skating moves on Rollerblades!

How to Figure Skate on Inline Skates

Happy Skating!
From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Photo Courtesy of the Jump-Spin Skate Company

Skating to Music in the Alps

2007-09-30T10:23:00.000-07:00

This speedskating video clip, produced by Eric Maurer of Skatetrix-Visiomatics, shows the skating of Roger Schneider who is a speedskater both on inline skates and on the ice. Roger is the European champion of marathon speedskating. Here he is skating in the Alps to the powerful music of Dimitri Shostakovich (The Bolt Suite).

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

How to Skate on One Foot

2007-09-26T11:03:00.000-07:00

Skating on one foot can be a challenge for new inline skaters. Follow these basic steps:

Skate on two feet first.
Transfer your weight to the foot you want to skate on.
Lift up the other foot for a brief moment and glide on one foot.
Put the foot your just lifted up back down and glide on two feet again.
Practice the one foot glide over and over again.
As you build up confidence, relax and hold the glide for longer periods of time.

Tips:

Don't raise your arms as you lift up your foot.
Allow your blade to glide on either an outside or inside edge, not on a flat.
Put the skate that you lift up at the heel of the other skate.
Bend the knee you stand on slightly.
Don't lean backward!

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Photo of About.com Figure Skating Guide, JO ANN Schneider Farris Skating on One Foot
Photo Copyright © JO ANN Schneider Farris}

“Skaters Rule” Calendar by Artist Sarah Curtiss

2007-09-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

The "Skaters Rule" Calendar by artist Sarah Curtiss is a unique inline skating wall calendar. The calendar features full color paintings of inline skater's feet, legs, and hips. Some of the paintings are very creative and unusual.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

October Inline Skating Events

2007-09-22T12:21:00.000-07:00

October is almost here. The weather will be cold soon, but there is still time to take part in inline skating events and to enjoy being outdoors while skating. Some skating events scheduled for October include:

Athens to Atlanta Road Skate
Parkinson's Open Road Race - Long Beach, California
Zephyr Skate Camp - Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Défi de L'Île de Montréal 128K Inline Skating Race
The Halloween Friday Night Skate - San Francisco, California

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Skate in New York

2007-09-18T11:15:00.000-07:00

There are many great places to inline skate in New York. Also, there are opportunities for group skating, hockey, dance skating, and speed skating. If you live in New York, do take the time to inline skate and if you visit New York, take your skates with you!

My Skate Collection!

2007-09-14T11:06:00.000-07:00

I have several pairs of skates. In fact, I may own more skates than anyone on the planet! What is even more interesting, is that I'm able to skate on every kind of skate I own....is there anyone else out there who owns a large variety of skates?

JO ANN's List of Skates:

Original Rollerblades With Three Wheels
PIC® Skates
TrailSkates
Rollerblade Coyotes - Off Road Rollerblades
Landrollers
Jump-Spin Skates
Traditional Quad Roller Skates
Razor Scooters
The Trikkke
Snow White Artistic Inline Skates
Rollerblade Microblades
Inline Hockey Skates
Ice Figure Skates
Ice Hockey Skates
Speed Skates
Hypno Inline Skates - Inline Skates With Removable Frames
Heelys
Two-Wheel Heelys
Carpet Skates
Cross Country Skate Skis
Snow Skates

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Photos of Just Some of About.com's Figure Skating Guide's Skates - Hockey Skates, Shopping Image - Landroller Skates, Pubic Domain Image}

Take Part in the Houston Inline Marathon

2007-09-12T17:50:00.000-07:00

The Houston Inline Marathon is scheduled for the first weekend in November. This inline skating event is a way for inline skaters of all ages and skating levels to have fun. Times to socialize and skate with others are planned for the weekend. A pre-event party will take place before the race.

You don't have to be a champion speed skater to participate in an inline skating marathon since the majority of marathon skaters are recreational inline skaters. Those who don't want to do a full marathon have the option of entering a half-marathon event or an "Easy Street" Fun Skate Event.

About Inline Skating Marathons
HoustonInlineMarathon.com
Houston Inline Marathon Forum Discussion - From Skatelog.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Houston Inline Marathon Logo - Photo of Logo Courtesy of Justin McMurtry, Houston Inline Marathon Organizing Committee}

How to Spin on Inline Skates

2007-09-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

Spinning on inline skates is not easy. The easiest way to start is with a two-foot spin, but spinning on one foot is also possible.

First try to get the feeling of turning forward on your right skate and backward on your left skate in one spot.

It will feel like you are doing a forward inside half-circle swizzle on your right foot and a backward inside half circle swizzle on your left foot at the same time.
The right skate should have most of the weight on the heel, while the left skate should have most of the weight on the toe.

Pull your arms in towards your chest.
When you reach the point where you know you are skating backward on the left inside edge, lift up the right foot.

Stay forward over the left skate, and you will find yourself making a small back inside circle, and you should be spinning on one foot!

Tips:

Don't expect the spin to last long, especially if you are on one foot.
Plan on falling a lot as you learn this move.
Don't forget to bend your knees.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Spinning on Skates - Illustration Courtesy of Artist Larisa Gendernalik}

Should “Federation” Be Used in the Name of the New Inline Figure Skating Association?

2007-09-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

USA Roller Sports (USARS ) is the recognized governing body for competitive roller skating in the United States. A new organization has begun that hopes to become the recognized organization for artistic inline figure skating, the United States Federation of Inline Figure Skaters.

There has been some concern about the use of the word "Federation" in the title of the new organization. Some say that there is nothing wrong about promoting inline figure skating, but the new organization's name may imply that it wishes to replace the established roller skating governing body.

What is your opinion? Can two organizations promote artistic inline figure skating?

Join the Discussion - Is a new and separate governing body needed especially to promote figure skating on inline skates?

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Downhill Inline Skating Photos

2007-09-07T16:02:00.000-07:00

Downhill inline skater, George Merkert, has sent me some great action photos by Marc Dean from the IGSA (International Gravity Sports Association) race that took place in Jungholz, Austria on July 11, 2007.

More Photos of Downhill Inline Skating in Jungholz, Austria

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{George Merkert reaches for the Gatorleash brake device to slow down for Turn 2 at the Almabtrieb Inline Downhill race in Jungholz, Austria on July 11, 2007. Photo by Marc Dean All Rights Reserved 2007.}

Video of World’s Fastest Skating in the Alps

2007-09-04T16:13:00.000-07:00

Submit Your Own Video

This speedskating video clip, produced by Eric Maurer of Skatetrix-Visiomatics, shows the skating of Roger Schneider who is a speedskater both on inline skates and on the ice. Roger is the European champion of marathon speedskating. The skating he does in this video clip is right in the heart of the Swiss Alps and is a joy to watch.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Video of Nathalie Biedermann - Inline Figure Skater

2007-09-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

Submit Your Own Video

This video clip, produced by Eric Maurer of Skatetrix-Visiomatics, shows the artistic inline figure skating of Swiss skater Nathalie Biedermann. The title of the video is "Figure Off Ice II." The video was produced by Skatetrix to show off Nathalie's skating on PIC® Skates.

What Nathalie does is very impressive to watch. She looks like she is on the ice as she does figure skating moves on inline skates.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

George Merkert - Downhill Inline Skater

2007-09-02T12:31:00.000-07:00

George Merkert of Los Angeles, is not only a downhill inline skier, but a downhill inline skater. He admits that doing downhill inline skating does takes guts.

Downhill Inline Skating -- Yikes!
George Merkert Profile - From PureGuts.com
Downhill Inline Skater George Merkert - From the UCLA Daily Bruin
YouTube Video of George Merkert Crashing While Downhill Inline Skating

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{George Merkert - Downhill Inline Skating Champion - Photo Courtesy of George Merkert}

Roller Skating Video of Gene Kelly

2007-08-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

Submit Your Own Video

The legendary Gene Kelly did tap dancing on roller skates in the 1955 movie "It's Always Fair Weather." Viewers will see that it is obvious that Gene Kelly had mastered many difficult skating techniques in order to be able to sing and dance on skates.

Imagine how great Gene Kelly would have been on inline skates! I'd love to be able to sing, dance, tap, and skate the way he did.

Video of Gene Kelly Tap Dancing on Roller Skates

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

A Hockey Stick May Help You Balance on Inline Skates

2007-08-30T17:55:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things to do is to put on my inline hockey skates and my helmet. Then, I grab a hockey stick and skate down the street! I'm not a hockey player; I'm just a person who loves to skate. Skating with a stick once in awhile adds control and power to my skating.

Even if you don't play hockey, you may find it useful to hold onto a hockey stick and skate. Having something to hold onto may give you balance and confidence. Think about it this way: even if you don't know how to skate, you can look like you can skate just by putting a hockey stick in your hands!

Hockey Sticks

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Hockey Stick by Illustrator Mark A. Hicks - Licensed From the Clip Art Gallery on DiscoverySchool.com}

Share Crazy Skating Stories

2007-08-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

Once I decided to take the gondola to the top of Vail Mountain (in the summer) and skate down. I kept hearing, "You must be crazy!" Well, I admit it, inline skating down Vail Mountain in the summer did not go well. Then, there was the time that I drove my car with my skates on! That wasn't a very successful venture.....my son tried to ride his bike with his skates on and had better luck...

I've taken my dog skating. I've put my shoes in a stroller and pushed the stroller and baby successfuly while skating, but lost my shoes in the process. (A dog found my shoes and chewed them up!) I've passed out pamphlets on skates on the streets of New York and in San Francisco. I've pushed a wheelchair with a heavy adult in it and tried to skate. I've made cell phone calls and skated at the same time. I've tried to ride a scooter while wearing inline skates. I've played basketball on skates and jumped rope while wearing skates.

Some of my crazy and funny skating skating adventures have gone well; others have not. What amusing inline skating stories do you have to tell? Have you tried something adventuresome on skates? Please share your skating adventures and experiences in the comment section of this post.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Crazy Skating Experiences: Stroller Skating and Dog Skating - Paintings Courtesy of Artist Larisa Gendernalik}

What is a Trikke?

2007-08-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

A Trikke is a three-wheeled scooter with large eight-inch wheels. Sometimes, when I'm too lazy to strap on my inline skates, I hop on my Trikke. I enjoy the feeling of gliding, turning, and riding down the street. When I'm on my Trikke, I feel like I'm on the slopes and pretend I'm skiing. The Trikke is a very stable gadget and the large wheels go over the cracks in pavement quite easily. One thing that takes a bit getting used to is being so high off the ground.

Most inline skaters find the Trikke very easy to ride and fun to use. In this photo, the person using this Trikke was not able to skate all that well, but he could ride a Trikke!

How to Ride a Trikke

The Trikke

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide
_{Riding a Trikke - JO ANN Schneider Farris Personal Photos}

Physician Skates to Patients

2007-08-21T15:47:00.000-07:00

Forty-five year old Dr. Thomas Bolte has discovered that inline skating is the fastest way to get around New York City. If his patients have urgent needs, he's there in a jiffy. He makes "skating house calls" to the elderly, to busy entertainers, to important officials, and to those who visit Manhattan. He also believes in getting to know his patients and specializes in solving medical mysteries.

Dr. Bolte skates about ten miles each week. What a great way to make use of inline skating! I think being able to mix the fun and exercise of skating with work is an inspiring and great idea. I hope to meet and skate with this creative physician next time I visit NYC.

The "Real Dr. Bolte" (message from Doctor Thomas Bolte)
Dr. Wheel-Good is on Call - A Savior on Blades - From Ginger Adams Otis, The New York Post
New York Doctor Rolls by Traffic - From Earthtimes.org

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Dr. Thomas Bolte - Photo Courtesy of Dr. Thomas Bolte and NY Post Photographer Julie Stapen}

Have a Skating Birthday Party

2007-08-18T11:50:00.000-07:00

Almost all roller skating rinks make it possible to have a skating birthday party. Parties include a table to celebrate, skating for two hours, skate rental, games, and a gift for the birthday child. Sometimes a cake, ice cream, and invitations are included with the parties. Usually, pizza, hot dogs, and soda are also available.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Skating Birthday Invitation - Illustration Courtesy of KustomDesignz4U}

Hypno Skates - Inline Skates With Removable Frames

2007-08-10T18:42:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been skating and wished you could take your wheels off and just walk for awhile? Would you like to skate to the bus or train as you commute to work and keep your shoes on, but take your blades off? Hypno Skates make it possible to do just that. The entire inline skate's frame detaches from the boot.

These skates are meant for recreational skating and should not be used for hockey or for long distance skating. It takes some time to learn how to attach and detach the skate's frame and the boot can be a bit warm for walking on a hot day, but it is nice to be able to take the blades off and put them back on again.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Hypno Skates - Public Domain Image}

Learn to Powerslide

2007-08-06T17:03:00.000-07:00

Powersliding is considered an advanced inline skating stopping technique. It looks cool and is fun to do!

How to Powerslide:

Skate forward, but prepare to make a tight turn and curve on your skates.
From a staggered stance position, make a quick ninety degree turn.
Stretch the skate that didn't do the tight curve back and almost touch that skate's boot to the ground.
Turn the skate that did the tight curve completely around and bend that knee far forward.

Powerslide Tutorial

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Powerslide - Illustration Courtesy of Artist Larisa Gendernalik}

Skating on Venice Beach

2007-08-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

After seeing Kathie Fry's photo collection called "What I Saw Skating in Venice Beach," I'd like to skate on a California beach everyday!

What I Saw Skating in Venice Beach - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Skates Do Have Edges

2007-08-02T14:39:00.000-07:00

Inline skates have inside edges and outside edges. Stand with your feet parallel. Press your feet to the outside. These are outside edges. Now press your feet to the inside. You are on inside edges. When you glide on one foot, you must either be on an outside or an inside edge. If your skates are standing completely straight, not on outside or inside edges, you are on flats. It is impossible to glide on one foot on a flat. Trust your edges to hold you. They will.

Finding Your Edges by Kathy McSparran - InlinePlanet.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Skating on Inside and Outside Edges - Photos © Copyright InlinePlanet.com}

Live Coverage of the US Roller Figure Skating Nationals

2007-07-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

U.S. Roller Sports has made available live coverage of the 2007 U.S. Roller Figure Skating National Championships. Inline skating events and quad skating events will be shown.

Roller figure skating is not as popular as ice figure skating because of the lack of media coverage of the sport. It is hoped that this live broadcast will increase the popularity of roller and inline artistic skating.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Roller Dance With Richard Humphrey

2007-07-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

Richard Humphrey is a roller dance instructor and performer. His dance studio is in San Francisco. He has produced a series of roller dance exercise videos. Recently, he gave a live workshop in New York's Central Park.

More About Richard Humphrey:

Richard Humphrey Profile - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com
Richard Humphrey Biography
Rollerdance Videos by Richard Humphrey

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Learn to Use the Heel Brake

2007-07-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

The Central Park Skate Patrol in New York City gives free stopping clinics on how to use the heel brake. These free lessons are given every Saturday and Sunday from April 15 to October 15. If you can't get to New York City or Central Park, the Central Park Skate Patrol offers an online heel brake tutorial.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Heel Brake Tutorial - Photo Used by Permission of Kim Moser and the Central Park Skate Patrol}

Skate on the Job

2007-07-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

If you can skate, you may qualify as a skating waiter or skating waitress at Sonic Drive-In Restaurants. I'm not sure if Walmart stores still hire employees that can skate through the store and stock shelves, but they once did. Also, of course, skaters make great roller rink employees. If you are an expert at skating, you may wish to consider teaching skating. If you have alot of energy, become an inline skating tour guide. Or...how about becoming a professional skating performer?

Get Paid to Skate

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Waitress on Skates - Photo Courtesy of Props Unlimited}

Share Inspiring Inline Skating Stories

2007-07-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

I don't usually share personal stories, but today, I have a personal story to share. About two years ago, my husband was in a horrible accident. He was confined to a wheelchair for about nine months. I didn't believe he'd ever walk again, and of course, I did not expect him to skate again. In this photo, my brother-in-law is attempting inline skating for the first time while pushing my husband in a wheelchair. The photo was taken in December of 2005.

Since the photo was taken, little by little, my husband's body and feet have healed. He did walk again, but skating was not something he would try. When our family went skating, he'd sit and watch. Yesterday, we encouraged him to try to skate again. He wanted to try and skated for about two hours! I expect this is only the beginning for my husband. His trying to do something he thought he could not do will help him to try other things.

Do you have a similar story to share? Were you afraid to give inline skating a try? Did you try it? What has inline skating done to inspire or change your life? Please share your own stories.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Dan Farris and Mike Farris - Wheelchair Skating
Photo © Copyright JO ANN Schneider Farris}

2007 Roller Figure Skating National Championships

2007-07-22T11:39:00.000-07:00

The 2007 Roller Figure Skating National Championships begins July 22nd and will conclude on August 5th.. The event is being held at the Omaha Civic Auditorium in Omaha, Nebraska.

This is the first time this competition has taken place in Omaha. The best artistic roller skaters in the U.S. will be taking part. Both quad and inline figure skating events will take place. USA Roller Sports (USARS), the recognized national governing body for competitive roller sports in the U.S., runs the competition.

Omaha Hosts the 2007 Indoor National Skating Championships

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Skating on Wooden Bridges

2007-07-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried to skate over a wooden bridge? It's really hard! Sometimes I side step when I encounter a bridge while inline skating. At other times, I take baby steps or hold on to the bridge's rail and "walk" across. It's also important to remember to slow down before entering the bridge!

How To Skate on Bridges

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{A Wooden Bridge Can be Dangerous for Inline Skaters - Public Domain Photo}

Should Speed Skaters Shave?

2007-07-20T20:47:00.000-07:00

Speed skaters need to go as fast as possible. Extra hair might slow a skater down. Do you think speed skaters should shave their legs?

Should Speed Skaters Shave Their Legs? - Discussion at Kathie Fry's Skatelog.com Forum

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Omaha Hosts the 2007 Indoor Skating National Championships

2007-07-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

The 2007 Indoor Speed and Figure Skating National Championships will take place in Omaha, Nebraska from July 14 through August 5. The speed skating competition begins on Sunday, July 15 and the figure skating events will begin on Sunday, July 22. Thirty-five hundred athletes will be participating. The event will be held at the Omaha Civic Auditorium.

Live Coverage - 2007 Indoor Speed Skating National Championships

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Pass Out Pamphlets on Inline Skates

2007-07-14T06:59:00.000-07:00

Do you want to promote a product or cause in a creative way? Why not try LEAFLETING ON IN-LINE SKATES?! You'll get exercise and have a blast. Leafleting can really be fun on wheels!

How to Pass Out Pamphlets on Inline Skates

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{About.com Figure Skating Guide, JO ANN Schneider Farris, Passing Out Pamphlets on Skates
Photo © Copyright JO ANN Schneider Farris}

Champion Skater Ryan Allen Carrillo

2007-07-09T05:57:00.000-07:00

Ryan Allen Carrillo is a champion at traditional quad artistic roller skating and aggressive inline skating. He skates so well that celebrities like Madonna have recognized his talent. He has been featured in commercials and in music videos.

Ryan’s skating combines artistic roller skating and inline skating. He even performs difficult artistic roller skating moves on vert ramps! Wow!

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Do a T-Stop

2007-07-06T10:10:00.000-07:00

A t-stop technique is an alternative to using the heel brake to stop on inline skates. Skaters that don't have heel brakes on their skates use the t-stop often. Skaters who have heel brakes also enjoy doing t-stops.

How to Do a T-Stop

Glide forward.

Bend the knee of one leg.
Drag the other leg's skate behind.

The dragging boot should almost touch the ground.
Keep the weight forward.

Come to a complete stop.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{T-Stop - Photo Courtesy of the PIC® Skate Company}

Inline Skaters Perform in Independence Day Parade

2007-07-06T10:08:00.000-07:00

Submit Your Own Video

This YouTube video clip shows Motor City Motion, an inline skating dance group, perform on July 4, 2006 in Milford, Michigan. When you watch this video, notice the patriotic skating boot covers on the skaters' feet!

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

How to Use the Restroom With Skates On

2007-06-27T20:02:00.000-07:00

I have a funny story to tell. A few months ago, I bought a new pair of skates. I was not quite used to the new wheels on my feet and as I stood up after using toilet, I fell right back down on it! Ouch! Yes, it takes some practice to use "the facilities" with skates on.

Tips For Using the Restroom on Skates:

If possible, hold on to something as you squat down.
Point your toes together so you don't roll away.
Lean a bit forward as you sit down and get up.
Be aware that you are taller with skates on and that means the toilet is lower!

Basketball on Inline Skates?

2007-06-25T15:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried playing basketball with your inline skates on? It's challenging!

Roller basketball is basketball played on inline skates. The sport also can be played on traditional quad roller skates. There are even opportunities to play on roller basketball leagues.

If you are not interested in playing in a roller basketball league, instead, lace up your skates, and just shoot some baskets with your kids. They'll love it and shooting baskets on skates will keep you in great shape.

Roller Basketball Around the World - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Basketball on Inline Skates - Photos © Copyright JO ANN Schneider Farris}

In Skating, a Mohawk is NOT a Strange Haircut

2007-06-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen a mohawk haircut? Did you know that a mohawk is also the name of a skating turn? A mohawk is the way a skater turns from forward to backward or backward to forward. And...the mohawk is named after American Indians!

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Drawing of a Mohawk Turn - Courtesy of Artist Larisa Gendernalik}

What is the International Inline Figure Skating Association?

2007-06-18T21:12:00.000-07:00

The International Inline Figure Skating Association's vision is to support coaches and inline figure skaters worldwide. The IIFSA trains and certifies inline figure skating coaches. The association also has an achievement test program for inline figure skaters.

Eddy Matzger - Inline Skating Legend

2007-06-17T13:10:00.000-07:00

Inline skating legend Eddy Matzger has won over a hundred races. He climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great Pyramid with his skates on! He gives inline skating workshops all over the world. He even raced a camel with his skates on!

Eddy Matzger Interview - From The Inline Planet

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Take Some Inline Skating Lessons

2007-06-15T18:49:00.000-07:00

Do you want to learn how to skate or do you wish to improve your inline skating skills? Inline skating lessons can help. Group or private inline skating instruction is usually available in most cities. Inline skating camps are also a fun option.

Camp Rollerblade
List of Inline Skating Classes, Camps, and Lessons
Find an Inline Skating Instructor - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com
Skate School Links - From Inline Skating Resource Center

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Group Inline Skating Lesson - Public Domain Photo}

Brink! - A Disney Channel Movie About Aggressive Skating

2007-06-13T21:51:00.000-07:00

Brink! is a Disney Channel Original Movie. The story is a bit like the classic novel Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates by Mary Mapes Dodge. In the movie, Andy "Brink" Brinker skates for fun, but when he finds out his family has financial worries after his father is in an accident, he decides to skate professionally to make some money by competing in aggressive inline skating.

Some say that Brink! is one of the best movies every made by the Disney Channel. The skating is really fun to watch. The movie also teaches young viewers about the importance of having friends and about honesty. Sadly, this movie is not available on DVD.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Brink!
Disney Channel Promotional Poster}

I Like My New Landrollers!

2007-06-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

I now own a pair of Landrollers and I like them. They are fun. They are much easier to use than Rollerblade Coyotes or Trailskates. I'm close to the ground and I don't need to use poles! The boots are quite comfortable and the large wheels make it easy to skate over twigs and cracks in the pavement. Just like most inline skates, my Landrollers didn't move easily over small bricks, wooden bridges, or wet surfaces.

When I skated on them at the park yesterday, there were many comments from the people I met as I skated.

"Where did you get those skates?"

"Neat skates!"

"Those skates look like fun."

"I like your skates!"

"Are those easy to skate in?"

"Did you make those skates?"

Before You Try to Skate Backwards

2007-06-08T20:58:00.000-07:00

Before trying to skate backward, it is a good idea to practice walking backward and gliding for a short distance on inline skates. This exercise will help beginning inline skaters become comfortable with the feeling of moving backward on skates.

With your skates on, point your toes in and put your toes together.

Pretend your toes are "kissing."
With your skates on, walk backwards.

Take "baby steps." Continue to keep your toes pointing in. Make sure the weight on your feet is over the front part of the skates, but not too far in front.
Now, go to a wall. With your feet parallel, gently push yourself backward so that you roll backwards for a short distance.

Do this exercise over and over.
Now, repeat the "baby step" walking with the toes pointed together and then allow your skates to "rest" and roll backwards for a short distance.

Practice this exercise again and again until you feel comfortable with the feeling of moving backwards on skates.

Tips:

Bend your knees.
Keep you skates pressed inside slightly.

Why Inline Skate?

2007-06-02T17:09:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought about trying inline skating? Why should you inline skate?

Reasons to Inline Skate

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Do You Want to Teach Skating?

2007-06-01T15:07:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, I received a call from a young man. He wanted to apply for a job as a skating instructor. I asked the young man about his skating background. He explained that he had not skated in awhile and was a bit out of practice, so I set up an appointment with the young man so I could observe his skating abilities. Anyway, the young man showed up for our "interview-appointment" and to my surprise, he didn't know how to skate at all! I suggested to the young man that he first learn how to skate before considering teaching skating.

This is a very amusing story; however, many people believe that just wanting to teach skating or being able to skate better than someone else, qualifies individuals to teach skating. Before you consider becoming a skating instructor, beome an excellent skater and take the time to become a certified inline skating instructor.

How to Become an Inline Skating Instructor - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Have You Heard About Landrollers?

2007-05-30T15:15:00.000-07:00

Landrollers have only two large wheels on each skate. Those who skate in Landrollers say that the skates are more stable than traditional inline skates. One very large wheel is in the back of the skate and a smaller wheel is in front. The size of the wheels make it possible to skate over cracks and bumps with some ease.

Most people who have tried these skates say that the skates are fun, but do not go fast. Some say the boot is too stiff. Others say that once you get used to Landroller skates, much pleasure is in store. I want to try Landrollers!

Video of a Wedding on Inline Skates!

2007-05-25T17:21:00.000-07:00

Submit Your Own Video

I heard about a wedding on inline skates! Isn't that romantic? The couple met at an inline skating group lesson. This video, featured on YouTube, shows the bride and groom and some of the wedding party skating away from the church.

Artistic Inline Figure Skating Video of Nathalie Biedermann

2007-05-23T17:34:00.000-07:00

Submit Your Own Video

Nathalie Biedermann is an artistic inline figure skater from Switzerland. In this video, she skates on PIC® Skates (inline figure skates) in the Zurich mainstation, a historical building from the 19th century.

This video clip, highlighted on YouTube, shows only a preview of a complete video of Nathalie Biederman's performance. Skatetrix DVDs are available for purchase and download. Skatetrix's videos show inline figure skating, inline speed skating, and others sports in action.

Inline Skating Marathons

2007-05-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

Inline skating marathon events take all over the world. Marathons are a great way for skaters to improve at their skating skills. You don't have to be a champion speed skater to participate in an inline skating marathon since the majority of marathon skaters are recreational inline skaters. And.....it's much easier to skate for twenty-six miles than to run for twenty-six miles!

So You Want To Skate Your First Marathon .... - From Inline Skating Resource Center
Top Ten Inline Skating Marathons

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Skate With Your Dog

2007-05-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

If you are a good inline skater, you should be able to skate with your dog. "Dog Skating" is not easy, but dogs and their owners do love it!

"Dog Skating" Tips:

Try to find a place away from cars and traffic when you first practice skating with your dog.
Wear a helmet, wrist guards, and elbow and knee pads.
Be aware that dogs like going fast, so maintain control of the speed you skate and don't allow the dog to pull too hard on the leash.
Make sure the dog knows that you are the boss when you skate and be prepared to fall.

Camp Rollerblade

2007-05-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

Camp Rollerblade is a weekend skating camp for children and adults. Programs take place in major cities in the United States. Skaters receive ten hours of professional inline skating instruction over a two-day period. Families can learn to skate together! Instruction is available for beginning inline skaters, but intermediate and advanced beginning instruction is also available.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Camp Rollerblade - Public Domain Photo}

Stroller Skating?!?!

2007-05-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

Have you always wanted to in-line skate, but it just seemed a bit too scary? Then, why not try STROLLER-SKATING? You'll have a stroller to hang onto! There's all sorts of places and ways to Stroller-Skate. Try a city park with a flat sidewalk or basket ball court. Once you've mastered skating forward on a flat surface, you are ready for more complicated techniques. You can also practice cross-overs, turns, and tricks.

Stroller-Skating really is a fun way to enjoy in-line skating. It's also a great way for moms or dads to get out with their kids, and new moms will find it a fun and easy way to lose those extra pounds gained during pregnancy. Don't forget the protective gear!

More About Stroller Skating - From Jo Ann Schneider Farris
Stroller Skating Articles - Photos - Advice - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Stroller Skating - Painting Courtesy of Artist Larisa Gendernalik}

Can You Shoot the Duck?

2007-05-08T19:24:00.000-07:00

A shoot the duck is a fun skating move where the skater bends all the way down to the ground and rolls on one foot while kicking the other foot completely forward. I have no idea how this move got its name, but it is very fun. By the way, the real wild and crazy skaters will actually do this going backward.

To Do a Shoot the Duck:

Bend both knees completely and squat down as far as you can go.

Move as fast as you can in a straight line.
Place your right hand under your right calf and your left hand on your left knee and stick your right leg forward.

This isn’t the suicide maneuver you may be picturing, because if you fall, it’s no big deal since you are already almost on the ground!
If you don’t fall, just bring your right leg back down next to your left one and skate in the dip position again and then stand up.

Wasn’t that fun?
A more difficult way to perform this maneuver is to add the element shown in the photograph above.

Extend both arms in front of you throughout the move. You’ll be on your way to achieving that "Olympic" look.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Snow White Artistic Inline Frames

2007-05-07T19:09:00.000-07:00

The Snow White Frame is for serious inline figure skaters or for anyone who wishes to do figure skating moves on an in-line skate. I enjoy skating on Snow Whites because I am able to do spins and jumps and the light and short frame makes it possible to do dances on wheels. The Snow White Frame is really for indoor skating, but the manufacturer does also make wheels that are available for skating outdoors.

Inline Figure Skating
The Snow White Frame - From InlineFigure.com
My First Day in Snow White Inline Figure Skates - By Jo Ann Schneider Farris

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{The Snow White Frame - Photo © InlineFigure.com}

Skate at a Roller Rink

2007-05-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

Do you want to skate, but it's just too cold or too hot outside? Skating inside a roller rink is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. The weather doesn't have to be bad to skate indoors since skating at a indoor roller rink can be great fun anytime.

Most public open skate sessions at indoor roller rinks are two hours long. If you don't have your own skates, skate rental is available. Most roller rinks play great music for skaters to skate to and games, such as "The Hokey Pokey," "Red-Light, Green-Light," and "The Limbo" are played at various times during the sessions. Sometimes the rink turns the lights down low and skaters get to skate in the dark while multi-colored lights move around the rink floor. Food is available for purchase. Wearing protective gear is optional at indoor roller rinks.

All About Roller Skating Rinks - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com
Find a Roller Skating Rink

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Roller Rink Skating - Photos Copyright © Jo Ann Schneider Farris}

History of Inline Skating

2007-05-05T21:23:00.000-07:00

Ever since I was a child, I've been fascinated with the idea of skating on wheels, but skating on traditional quad roller skates was not easy for me. I wished that someone would invent a skate that was easier to skate on. As soon as Rollerblades were invented, I bought a pair.......I own one of the original pairs of three-wheeled Rollerblades! For me, Rollerblading was easier than quad skating and I've been hooked ever since.

Inline skating was originally called "Rollerblading" since Rollerblade, Inc. was the only maker of inline skates at first. Did you know that two ice hockey players invented Rollerblades?

Inline Skating Helped Me Learn to Ride a Bike!

2007-05-04T17:48:00.000-07:00

Some people may think that bike riding and inline skating are very different sports, but I don't agree. You see, inline skating helped me learn to ride a bike as an adult.

When I was a child, I was in a horrible bike accident and did not attempt to ride a bike again.

About twenty years passed and I took up inline skating. Inline skating gave me alot of confidence and I became quite good at it. Although I could jump and spin on in-line skates, skate quite well on my in-line hockey skates, skate ski, and even do sit spins in ice hockey skates, I still was sure that I could not ride a bike!

The years continued to pass and I really wanted to ride a bike. I envied all the little kids on my street that rode their bikes up and down the street and I wanted to be able to take a bike ride with my own children. Well, one day, I decided to try riding a bike. I went to Walmart and pulled out a little kid's bicycle and in minutes, I was riding around the store!

So...inline skating gave me the confidence to try something I thought I could never do again. Thanks to the amazing things that in-line skates can do, I feel I can do anything!

Do you have a story to tell about how inline skating boosted your confidence or changed your life? Please share your story in the comment section of this post.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{About.com Figure Skating Guide, Jo Ann Schneider Farris, Inline Skating and Bike Riding

Jo Ann Schneider Farris Personal Photos}

Types of Skating

2007-05-02T12:05:00.000-07:00

There are more than thirty different styles of skating. Some of the most popular forms of inline skating skating include:

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

How Often Do You Skate?

2007-05-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

There seems to be all sorts of of inline skaters. Many people eat, sleep, and skate every day! Some people skate every day before or after work. Others skate once or twice a week and some people only have a chance to skate once in awhile.

How often do you skate?

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Former About.com Inline Skating Guide, Kathie Fry, Skates All the Time

Photo Copyright © Kathie Fry of SkateLog.com}

Inline Skating Festivals and Parties

2007-04-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

Skate festivals and parties make it possible for those who love to skate to join hundreds of other inline skaters for a weekend. Most skate festivals are for intermediate and advanced skaters. Some activities that usually take place during skate festivals include Friday and Saturday Night Skates, dancing, parties, picnics, and group skating on Sunday morning.

Fun Skating Events
Skating Party Weekends - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com
Skate Festivals Around the World - From Inline Skating Resource Center

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Free Skating Lesson Day - May 12, 2007

2007-04-27T15:58:00.001-07:00

Inline skating schools in several cities in the United States will be giving free skating lessons on Saturday, May 12, 2007. "Free Skate Lesson Day" happens once a year. Participants must register in advance.

These free skating lessons are for beginning inline skaters. Skates and equipment are usually provided and the lessons are about an hour long. Students will learn how to stop, how to fall, and how to move forward on skates. Proper inline skating equipment and safety issues are also covered.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Weekly Social Group Skating

2007-04-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday evenings, from April through October, inline skaters gather together in New York City for two hours of skating on the streets of the city. Skaters also skate together each Wednesday night in Denver, Colorado and in Huntington Beach, California. On Friday nights, groups of inline skaters gather in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston, Toronto, London, Paris, and in Brazil!

Weekly Group Skates Around the World - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

TrailSkates[TM] - All-Terrain Skates

2007-04-24T17:39:00.000-07:00

All-terrain skating combines mountain biking, skiing and inline skating. TrailSkates[TM] can go over any surface and are a bit like skis with wheels on them. They look a bit funny since each skate has two knobby pneumatic tires and a hand-operated hydraulic drum brake. The skate fits over the user's shoe. Unlike some other brands of off-road skates, the skater is not elevated high off the ground. The technique used in cross-country skate-skiing is used while skating in TrailSkates[TM].

I have skated on TrailSkates [TM]. When I wear my TrailSkates [TM], I can skate when it rains or snows! It is also nice to be able to skate on grass, through rough terrain, through dirt, over rocks, and through shallow streams. The brake takes some getting used to since it is very strong.

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{About.com Figure Skating Guide, JO ANN Schneider Farris, Skating on TrailSkates

JO ANN Schneider Farris Personal Photos}

Downhill Inline Skating — Yikes!

2007-04-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, I got this "not so bright" idea. I decided to take the gondola to the top of Vail Mountain in Colorado (during the summer) and inline skate down! Well....you guessed it....what I tried to do was NOT a successful venture and I somehow climbed back up the mountain (with my skates on). I was exhausted and discouraged; I took the gondola back down to the bottom of the mountain. All was not lost, since I spent the rest of the afternoon happily skating on the flat bike paths around Vail Village.

My attempt at downhill inline skating was not successful, but some people do succeed at downhill inline skating. Movie producer, George Merkert is over fifty years old. He was the first U.S. National Downhill Inline Skating Champion. He says that inline downhill skating is like a cross between alpine downhill ski racing and NASCAR racing!

Fast and Fearless at 50+ by George Merkert, Guest Author, Get Rolling Orbit Newsletter
About Inline Downhill Skating - From InlinePlanet.com
Downhill Skating Video

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Inline Figure Skating

2007-04-17T21:10:00.000-07:00

Figure Skating can be practiced on dry land with inline figure skates . PIC® Skates are one of the most popular types of inline figure skates, but other brands are available.

Jump-Spin Skates
Video of Inline Figure Skating
Review of PIC® Skates
Inline Figure Skating - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

Do You Want to Play Inline Hockey?

2007-04-16T10:36:00.000-07:00

Most roller skating rinks or park and recreation departments offer inline roller hockey programs. Many of these programs only require players to provide their own skates and a stick. Skate City, in Colorado, provides new players with brand new inline hockey skates!

Adults and children of all ages can participate. Recreational inline hockey leagues last for about six to seven weeks and include two to three practices and ten to twelve games. New inline skaters seem to magically learn to skate while playing hockey!

All About Inline Hockey - From Kathie Fry, Skatelog.com

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{Rebekah Schneider-Farris and Joel Schneider-Farris Played Inline Hockey at Skate City in Colorado
Jo Ann Schneider Farris Personal Photo Collection}

Get Rolling (The Beginner’s Guide to In-Line Skating)

2007-04-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

Liz Miller is an inline skating instructor based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Her book, Get Rolling (The Beginner's Guide to In-Line Skating), is an excellent resource. If you live in or near San Francisco, it may be better to take Liz's lessons, but if you can't do that, her book will certainly get you rolling!

Get Rolling includes illustrations, lessons, and drills. The author also disusses safety, gear, and how to maintain skating equipment. The book includes an excellent list of inline skating resources.

Get Rolling by Liz Miller

Happy Skating!

From JO ANN Schneider Farris - About.com Figure Skating Guide

_{"Get Rolling" - About.com Pricegrabber Shopping Image

In-Line Skating Instructor and Author, Liz Miller - Photo Copyright © Get Rolling}

InLine Skating With JO ANN

Do Ice Skating Tricks on Rollerblades

Skating to Music in the Alps

How to Skate on One Foot

“Skaters Rule” Calendar by Artist Sarah Curtiss

October Inline Skating Events

Skate in New York

Further Reading:

My Skate Collection!

JO ANN's List of Skates:

Take Part in the Houston Inline Marathon

How to Spin on Inline Skates

Tips:

Should “Federation” Be Used in the Name of the New Inline Figure Skating Association?

Downhill Inline Skating Photos

Video of World’s Fastest Skating in the Alps

Video of Nathalie Biedermann - Inline Figure Skater

George Merkert - Downhill Inline Skater

Roller Skating Video of Gene Kelly

A Hockey Stick May Help You Balance on Inline Skates

Share Crazy Skating Stories

What is a Trikke?

Physician Skates to Patients

Have a Skating Birthday Party

Hypno Skates - Inline Skates With Removable Frames

Learn to Powerslide

How to Powerslide:

Skating on Venice Beach

Skates Do Have Edges

Live Coverage of the US Roller Figure Skating Nationals

Roller Dance With Richard Humphrey

More About Richard Humphrey:

Learn to Use the Heel Brake

Skate on the Job

Share Inspiring Inline Skating Stories

2007 Roller Figure Skating National Championships

Skating on Wooden Bridges

Should Speed Skaters Shave?

Omaha Hosts the 2007 Indoor Skating National Championships

Pass Out Pamphlets on Inline Skates

Champion Skater Ryan Allen Carrillo

Do a T-Stop

How to Do a T-Stop

Inline Skaters Perform in Independence Day Parade

How to Use the Restroom With Skates On

Tips For Using the Restroom on Skates:

Further Reading:

Basketball on Inline Skates?

In Skating, a Mohawk is NOT a Strange Haircut

What is the International Inline Figure Skating Association?

Further Reading:

Eddy Matzger - Inline Skating Legend

Take Some Inline Skating Lessons

Brink! - A Disney Channel Movie About Aggressive Skating

I Like My New Landrollers!

Further Reading:

Before You Try to Skate Backwards

Tips:

Further Reading:

Why Inline Skate?

Reasons to Inline Skate

Do You Want to Teach Skating?

Have You Heard About Landrollers?

Further Reading:

Video of a Wedding on Inline Skates!

Further Reading:

Artistic Inline Figure Skating Video of Nathalie Biedermann

Further Reading:

Inline Skating Marathons

Skate With Your Dog

"Dog Skating" Tips:

Further Reading:

Camp Rollerblade

Stroller Skating?!?!

Can You Shoot the Duck?

To Do a Shoot the Duck:

Snow White Artistic Inline Frames

Skate at a Roller Rink

History of Inline Skating

Further Reading: