When you’ve run out of activities to keep the kids occupied on a rainy weekend, or you fancy trying something a little different to keep fit; maybe a visit to the local roller skating rink is in order. Turn up, hire your shoes and away you go! It might look easy, but if you’re a beginner, get ready for a little patience and a whole lot of fun.
Aside from casual sessions—skating your afternoon away—roller skating rinks are home to some of the most competitive yet enjoyable sports known to mankind. Take roller derby for instance. This pastime has been trending in Australia in recent years as a great way to keep fit and let out a little aggression in a controlled team environment. With two teams of 15 battling it out to see whose jammer can pass the most blockers over 60 minutes, you’d be forgiven for thinking this is a mundane sport; but you’d be wrong. Get set for strategy, mayhem, a real workout and of course, a few bruises.
Similar in toughness—and in excitement—is inline roller hockey. Most skating rinks will have a variety of levels and age group competitions available, depending on whether you’re super competitive or just in it for a spot of fun. Usually you’ll need to invest in your own sticks and guards to play, but this may vary by venue.
If you’re seeking an activity that’s a little less—how should we put it—full on, there’s also artistic skating. Practice transitioning from ugly duckling to elegant swan with professional lessons; or use YouTube as your inspiration to practice during open sessions.
Roller skating rinks are also a great for hosting kids’ birthday parties. Most venues will provide packages that include rink hire, skate hire, food, drinks and entertainment.
To book in for a skate, sign up for a competition or to organise a party, get in touch with one of your local roller skating rinks on the Gold Coast today!
