Nordic (Roller Ski)
Introduction to Rollerskiing
Rollerskiing is the off-snow equivalent to Nordic cross-country skiing and is a fantastic way to stay fit. Rollerskiing takes place on flat, smooth surfaces such as park paths, roads, cycle and athletics tracks and mirrors the techniques used in cross country skiing. It uses short skis which have a small wheel on the tip and the tail. The movement is not dissimilar to inline skating.
Similarities between Rollerskiing and Alpine Skiing.
Although Rollerskiing is different to Alpine skiing (also known as downhill skiing, which takes place in mountainous regions), there are many similarities which makes Rollerskiing a great off-season training method for alpine skiers. Rollerskiing often provides a more comprehensive workout than alpine skiing so is a great way to stay ski-fit.
- Posture, Body Positioning and Weight Transfer: Both sports require precise body positioning and effective weight transfer to maintain balance and control.
- Use of Poles: While poles are used differently in each sport, they are essential for balance and propulsion in both.
- Terrain Navigation: Both involve navigating various terrains, though alpine skiing is typically on snow-covered slopes, and rollerskiing can be done on any hard surface.
- Gravity-Related Movements: Both sports involve gravity-related movements, with alpine skiing focusing on downhill descents. Rollerskiing can be completed on uphill, downhill and flat terrain.
- Adrenaline and Speed: Both sports offer a thrilling experience with a sense of speed and control as you navigate the slopes or paths.
Booking Lessons
Lessons can only be booked by members of Arbroath Ski Club. It is easy to join though, please visit the membership section of this website for more information.
Lessons are run throughout the season usually in 4 week blocks. We operate 1 hour sessions on a Thursday evening between 6.30 and 7.30 from April through to October.
Members will be asked to select the level which best describes their skiing ability to allow the Lesson Co-ordinator to allocate everyone to an appropriate class.
Current Rates
- £8.50* per person per session, includes instruction and the hire of all equipment (rollerskis, boots and poles)
*a 3.4% booking fee plus 20p transaction charge is also charged by Paypal.
Please Note: Rollerskiers may use their own equipment though there is no reduction to the above rates.
Recreational Rollerskiing
Periodically, we will organise ‘rollerski social’ sessions to be held at the weekend. These are informal practice sessions and club get together. Members are welcome to participate without taking a lesson provided they meet the following minimum standards for recreational rollerskiing:
- The ability to use the equipment independently and be in full control
- The ability to make turns, control your speed and stop safety on firm terrain and variable gradient
- If under 16 years of age, you should be accompanied by an adult either rollerskiing or present at the venue.
Details of the Rollerski Social sessions will be posted on social media.
Please review our codes of conduct. The rules must be adhered to at all times. It is mandatory, per Health & Safety Regulations, that all rollerskiers skiers helmets. When using poles in a group setting, protective eyewear is also mandatory. In addition it is recommended that you wear gloves and long sleeve tops.
Please note:
You must book a Lesson using the website. Lessons are booked on a first come, first served basis.
We have some restrictions regarding equipment sizes, but will do our best to accommodate all requests.
Important note: Very occasionally rollerskiing will be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. Any cancellation information will be posted on our website and Facebook page and a full refund for the cancelled session will be provided once the Block is complete.
If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact via the details on the Contact Us page.