Rollerskiing in London
Cross-Country Ski without Snow
If you love a sport that can only be done in a certain climate or weather, you probably had to look for alternatives whilst the whole world was in lockdown in 2020. Charlie as so many others who love surfing got herself a surfskate and discovered the concrete waves in London.
She was recently invited to a rollerskiing session in Hyde Park with Maier Sports. Charlie had some skiing experience from like 15 years ago and she thought, why not? The event took place on a warm Tuesday afternoon in June in London’s Hyde Park. It was organized by Maier Sports who are sponsoring Jasmine Taylor, world cup winner and member of the GB Telemark Team. She uses rollerskiing as her summer workout to keep in shape. It’s like cross-country skiing without snow.
A taste of skiing in the summer
It was for all participants the first experience of rollerskiing. Even though it is similar to rollerblading which Charlie used to do, it is still something you have to learn.
The taster session by rollerski.co.uk started with the whole group just walking slowly over the grass in Hyde Park. Everybody should get a feel for the ski and the technique of lifting your heels as you push your feet forwards. Charlie was definitely relying a bit too much on the sticks during that exercise.
The experienced coaches knew exactly that this happens naturally. For the next exercise which was also the first on the path (no longer on the grass) all participants had to leave their sticks behind and roll slowly on just one leg over the pavement.
From there the exercises increased in level: rolling slowly on both feet, adding sticks to it, lifting one foot, doing turns and finally going a bit faster.
Luckily, all skiers had been given knee and elbow pads and helmets – nearly everybody fell at least once! It’s part of the learning experience! Whilst one participant gave up after his fall, Charlie enjoyed the lesson more and more.
Watching the advanced skiers
After the taster sessions, rollerski London had another lesson scheduled: this time it was for those that already had some experience. The coaches had put up a little course along the path in Hyde Park. The skiers had to jump over obstacles, do a slalom, walk a bit over the grass and then just let it roll. It was fun for Charlie to watch and she could also take some pictures of that fun afternoon activity.
Interested in skiing without snow?
Rollerski.co.uk offer a 90-minute intro session every Saturday in Hyde Park and there are regular 1-day and 5-week courses available to book online.
