How to Stop on Roller Skates

Introduction

• Overview of stopping techniques on roller skates
• Five different methods will be discussed, using toe stops and jam plugs.

Types of Toe Stops

• Toe Stops: Traditional stopping mechanism.
• Jam Plugs: Used by those who prefer no toe stops.

Stopping Techniques

1. Pizza Stop (Plow Stop)

• Similar to the skiing technique.
• Posture: Stand straight with knees bent.
• Action:
  • Toes point inward, heels flare outward.
  • Bounce slightly and turn heels out to slow down.
  • Squeeze inner thighs to push feet to outside edges.

2. Transition Stop

• Action:
  • Pop heel up and press toe stop down as you transition.

3. T-Stop

• Technique:
  • Shift weight to front leg and scoop back leg to stop.
  • Outside wheels lift slightly, scoop instead of drag to maintain balance.
• Tip: The amount of weight on the outside edge affects the speed of stopping.

4. Toe Drag

• Caution:
  • Not recommended for beginners due to balance issues.
• Action:
  • Shift weight to one side and drag the toe to slow down.
• Risk: Foot may get stuck or cause panic if not done correctly.

Jam Plug Stops

• Function: Protects toe stop hole and helps with certain maneuvers.
• Stopping Techniques with Jam Plugs:
  • 1. Pizza Stop:
    • Same as with toe stops, pivoting heels out and toes in.
  • 2. Transition Stop:
    • Similar action as with toe stops.
  • 3. Pivot Stop:
    • Pivot ankle in opposite direction to stop.
  • 4. Gentle Slow Down:
    • Shift weight to control speed, not for racing.

Mindful Skating

• Concept: Being aware of body movements and weight shifts.
• Technique:
  • Shift weight to control momentum.
  • Understand contact inertia and how lifting a foot affects speed.

Conclusion

• Practice: Use the stopping method that feels most comfortable.
• Flexibility: It’s okay to switch or adapt techniques as needed.
• Encouragement: Find what works best for you and enjoy skating!