Question From a Newbie

[TCNJ]

Hi there. I'm just beginning to learn to play roller hockey...or more accurately, I'm learning to skate (one step at a time, right?). I just bought a pair of Bauer Vapor XLs and tried them out over the weekend. Considering I've never skating in my life, I think I did pretty well. However, I can't figure out how to stop. Obviously there isn't a brake on these skates, so I'm wondering exactly what the technique is to stop when using hockey skates. Thanks!

[Dave44]

I skate on Sportcourt surface, and when I do a 'hockey stop', I bend my knees deeply (almost like i'm going to sit on my heels), and then I kick the skates out, putting most of my weight on the back wheels. Takes lots of practice, but just be patient, definately wear a girdle or ice hockey pants, and have fun!

[JOE00]

If your just starting to skate it might be better for you to do the old "V" stop, like in skiing. Point the front of your two feet towards the inside making an upside down V. Put pressure towards the front to provide friction and slow your self down. You can also do a "T" stop. drag your back foot sidways providing friction to slow you down.
After you master these than you should try hockey stops. They don't work on wheels like they do on ice however. You will fall a few times so you might want to wait a few weeks until you get your balance. Try wearing your skates around the house to build up your balance and your ankle strength.

[LetsRoll]

Use my technique... cross check people. It'll help you stop :)