How many classes will I need to be skating comfortably?

Everyone learns at a different pace, but it takes time and practice to gain mastery over any new skill. Students who go out and practice in between skating lessons will become proficient skaters sooner. Some people can learn the basic stride and how to use the heel brake in the first lesson. Others will use the first hour to get comfortable with standing up and rolling into the grass. If you’ve had previous ice skating, roller skating, or skiing experience, this will help you. I recommend that you begin with three lessons to learn the very basics, but six will get you off to an even better start! There is no limit to what you can learn on skates!

What type of skates should I buy?

Look for skates with a quality name brand, such as Rollerblade, K2, Salomon, or Roces. If you are a beginner, look for a skate that is a fitness or recreational skate. Several factors determine the speed of the skates: the type of bearings, the type of chassis (the frame) and the size of the wheel. The higher the ABEC rating on the bearings, the faster the wheels will spin. Most beginner skates come with an ABEC 5 rating. A composite chassis will be slightly slower than one that is aluminum because it is slightly more flexible. A longer chassis is faster and will fit larger wheels. The larger the wheels, the faster the skates will go. Most entry level skates come with 76 or 78 mm wheels.

A note about children’s skates: Most children’s skates come in adjustable sizes to allow for the children’s expanding foot size.

What should I wear to the class?

Wear something you will be comfortable in. Whatever you would wear to the gym would probably be fine. Shorts or sweatpants with a t-shirt will allow you to maneuver freely on skates. Bring layers if it is chilly. Always wear socks under your skates. Sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended.

What should I bring to the class?

You will be required to wear a helmet, wrist guards, knee pads and elbow pads. If you do not own these things, tell your instructor, and protective gear will be provided. Also bring a water bottle and sunscreen.

How many people are in the group classes? What is the age range?

The number of students spans between 4-15 people in the class. If there are more than 10 people, there will be an additional instructor. Ages range between the 20’s and 60’s, with the majority of students between 25 and 45.

What if my skates are uncomfortable?

There may be several reasons that your skates are uncomfortable. Depending on the source of the problem, there are different things you can do to increase skate comfort.

Problem: My feet are cramping.

Solution: First make sure that your skates are the right size. There is nothing you can do for skates that are too small, except buy larger skates. Once you are sure they are the right size, you may find that the muscles in your feet may not be used to the demands placed on them for skating. First, make sure your laces are tight enough (they should be snug). If they are too loose then your feet are probably overworking to try to stay balanced. Arch supports such as Super Feet can sometimes give your feet more support. If your feet still hurt, try taking off your skates and giving them a massage. You may need to rest your feet from time to time while your muscles adjust to your new skates.

Problem: I’m getting blisters:

Solution: Make sure you always wear socks with your skates. Non-cotton, non-ribbed, above-the-ankle socks are best. Ezeefit makes an ankle booty that you can wear under your socks to protect your ankles from blisters.

What is an appropriate age to teach a child how to skate?

Children mature at different rates, so there is no right age to learn to skate. In general, children should be motivated to learn, be able to take turns in line, know the parts of the body, and be able to follow simple instructions. Four Wheels Inline accepts students ages five and older.

Do you offer classes for kids?

At this time, Four Wheels Inline offers private instruction and family lessons for children.

Are there opportunities to skate socially with other beginners?

Yes! Every Sunday morning May 6-September 30, beginners are welcome to meet in Cambridge for a guided group skate. A certified instructor will skate with the group, give pointers and provide an introduction to street skating. Instructors will gauge ability levels of skaters and pace the group accordingly. Skating will take place on the bike path, Memorial Drive, or on the street when appropriate. Meeting times are Sundays at 10:15 am at the fountain at JFK Park. Rain or wet pavement will cancel. Call ahead to confirm.

Students are encouraged to contact one another between classes for practice sessions. There are many wonderful opportunities to skate in the Boston area. An class e-mail list can be provided to students, given the consensus of the group.

Where can I skate around Boston?

Visit the Inline Club of Boston web site for many places to skate.

How do I register for a class?

You can pay for group lessons on this website by going to the “Classes” page and clicking on PayPal. You may also send a check. Once your payment has been received, you will be registered for the class. You may pay your instructor directly for private lessons. Rentals may be paid for the day of the class.