Roller skating is not just a fun activity or a nostalgic pastime; it’s a diverse sport with various styles, each possessing its own unique flair and technical elements. From the rhythmically inclined to the trick-centric, here’s a guide to understanding some of the most popular roller skating styles: Jam, Rhythm, and more.
Jam Skating Jam skating is a hybrid of breakdancing, gymnastics, and roller skating. Often described as “breakdancing on wheels,” this style combines dance moves with roller skates, requiring not just rhythm and balance but also significant athletic ability. Jam skaters execute intricate footwork, spins, and jumps to the beat of primarily hip-hop music. What sets jam skating apart is its focus on rhythm and smooth flow along with the incorporation of tricks. It’s highly improvisational and often performed in competitions and showcases where individual flair and originality can shine.
Rhythm Skating Rhythm skating, sometimes referred to as soul skating, has deep roots in African-American culture, mirroring the rhythm and blues music to which it is often performed. This style focuses on smooth, controlled movements that flow with the music’s beat. Rhythm skating involves a lot of footwork, slides, and turns with a heavy emphasis on timing and precision. It’s less about tricks and more about dancing on wheels, making it accessible yet challenging due to its need for musicality and coordination.
Artistic Skating Artistic roller skating is akin to figure skating on ice and involves performing jumps, spins, and choreographed routines to music. There are various categories within artistic skating, including singles, pairs, dance, and precision teams, each requiring different skills. Artistic skaters wear specially designed boots and plates that help perform the technical maneuvers required in this disciplined form. Competitions are judged based on technique, originality, and how well skaters interpret the music.
Speed Skating Speed skating on roller skates involves racing around a track, competing against others for speed and endurance. It’s a high-adrenaline, competitive sport that requires excellent physical condition, quick reflexes, and strategic racing skills. Skaters must navigate the track, pacing themselves against competitors while managing tight turns at high speeds.
Derby Skating Roller derby is a contact team sport that combines racing, collision, and strategic team play. It’s played on an oval track where two teams send out five members each — one scorer, called a “jammer,” and four blockers, including one “pivot.” The objective is to help your jammer lap the opposing members while hindering the other team’s jammer, making it a physically and mentally demanding sport.
Aggressive Inline Skating While technically not roller skating (it uses inline skates), aggressive inline skating is worth mentioning for its similarity to skateboarding. It involves performing tricks and stunts over various obstacles in a skate park or urban environment. It’s characterized by jumps, grinds, slides, and flips, requiring protective gear due to its high-risk nature.
Each roller skating style offers a unique way to explore the capabilities of skates and the creativity of the skater. Whether you’re gliding rhythmically to soulful tunes, racing around a track, or performing complex jumps and spins, roller skating provides a rich and varied arena for expression and exercise. As Caribbean Rollerama embraces these diverse styles, it continues to be a hub for all who wish to discover the joy and community of skating.
To learn to skate check out our classes or ask us about our connection with Speed and Artistic Skate Clubs.
