HELLO
MY BEGINNINGS
Hi, I’m Alba. My journey with artistic roller skating started over a quarter of a century ago. Since then, skating has grown from a pastime into a fascination, a love, and a profession.
Now, I share my skills with people all over the world, as a passionate instructor and proud creator of the leading artistic roller skating course.
THE SKATING LIFE
When I was 9 years old and the other kids were playing, I was preparing for competitions. As I got older, and my colleagues were going to parties, I was training.
But for me, being this focussed was never a sacrifice. Playing in the park just couldn’t compare to performing or that feeling of standing in the ring and waiting for my song to start.
When there are 100 faces peering at you in total silence, you understand: all these people are there to see you thrill them with your dance.
FROM SKATER TO COACH
After 16 years of skating, and many national and international championships, I decided that the natural progression of career would be into coaching.
Whilst I developed as a coach, I also grew into a strong choreographer, and was lucky enough to introduce some fantastic artistic skating performances to hotels and other venues.
In total I have spent 26 years of my life on skates, and 15 years coaching others. I teach all levels, from total beginners to trained skaters who want to hone their tricks and techniques.
ONLINE COACHING
I wanted to start an online course because skating has the ability to bring such joy to people. I believe artistic roller skating should reach every corner of the world.
I intend to spread my knowledge as far as I can and make skating accessible for anyone. I want to give you the freedom to go at your own pace.
If you don’t have time to commit to a traditional class or lesson, it doesn’t matter. When you learn to skate online with me, you can do it on your own schedule.
“When you have a dream, it doesn’t matter what others think. Just roll with it!”
FEEDBACK
From My Skating Students
Upcoming
Workshop
FAQ
If we’re talking about the ideal age to start, then 4 years old is perfect. At this age, kids learn easily and their bodies are more agile.
But, don’t let age hold you back! I have students who are 40+ years old, and they are having tones of fun and skating beautifully. The key is that you must want it: then anything is possible.
Don’t worry if you think you’re not flexible. Flexibility is something that you can work on and actively improve, no matter your age.
In artistic roller skating there are four levels before you reach competition level. Some people can get there in four years or less, and some people take longer. If you are aiming to become a professional artistic roller skater, you should take all of the time that you need until you are ready. Everyone is different.
Some of the most popular choices for boots are Edea and Risport, and for wheels, Roll-Line. These brands are generally considered to produce the highest quality gear.
However, there are other options out there, such as Riedell, Moxi, and Skatermate.
There are different wheels for skating outside and skating inside. It’s important to use the correct wheel for each floor type to get the best performance.
Outdoor wheels are soft, and can stand up to more challenging terrain. They are also a bit wider, built to absorb shock from any debris and provide better grip.
Indoor wheels are harder; perfect for gliding around the smooth surface of a skating rink at high speed.
There are some exceptions. For example, if an indoor floor is particularly slippery then it may be necessary to pick a softer wheel for better grip and traction.
This topic has been the subject of debate, but my answer is: put simply, yes!
Many people continue to enjoy roller skating with the use of a cane, or a personal guide, after losing their sight. It’s also possible to learn to skate as a visually impaired person, as long as you are in the right environment and have enough determination.
Bike trails, skate trails, and rinks are the most convenient for blind skaters. They tend to have flat, clear paths, and well-maintained smooth surfaces that a visually impaired person can measure and become familiar with.
You can treat it as a hobby, or take it as seriously as you want. Like many things in life, it can be whatever you make of it.
Me? I am constantly working on my skating. This sport has taught me that if you put the work in, you will go far.
Others choose artistic skating because it’s fun, for the social aspect, or for the love of dance and expression through movement. Whatever your reason, the most important thing is that you enjoy yourself!
In some parts of the word it is really famous—for example in Spain, Italy, UK, USA, and South America. In recent years the sport has gained popularity in Asia, too.
Although artistic roller skating is very similar to figure skating (on ice), it hasn’t yet been recognised as an Olympic sport, however, it is included in the World Games.
