Rolling Through Life: How I Found Peace, Passion, and Purpose on Skates

A couple of months ago, I put on a pair of roller skates for the first time in over a year and had a lesson with a professional skater in London. Since then, I haven’t looked back.

What started as a curiosity—or maybe even a bit of a midlife crisis—has quickly turned into something much more meaningful. Whether it's a hobby, a newfound passion, or simply my way of reconnecting with myself, I’m having fun, and that alone makes it worth it.

I’ve been teaching myself ever since that first lesson. Some days I’m skating through local parks. Other times, I’m gliding across my living room floor, practicing basic footwork or trying (awkwardly) to dance on skates. I watch YouTube tutorials, observe more experienced skaters, and pick up what I can through trial and error. Honestly, it's been fun to learn something purely for me.

The Highs, the Wobbles, and the Unexpected Sweat

People keep saying I’m doing well—and I appreciate the encouragement—but truthfully, I’m still skating with caution. My technique isn’t sharp yet, my dance moves are unbalanced, and I’ve had more than a few near-falls, and falls. But that’s all part of the journey, right?

Despite the wobbles, I’ve made real progress. Every bit of sweat, every sore muscle, every small improvement—it’s been earned through persistence. And surprisingly? I sweat more skating than I do at the gym. My body feels stronger, more alive, and honestly, in better shape than it’s been in years.

A New Community on Wheels

One of the most beautiful things about skating has been the community. I’ve met new people in the most unexpected places—parks in Hackney, the basketball court at Bethnal Green Gardens, the O2 Riverside. Even though there aren't many open skating spots in West London (something I hope changes), I don’t mind the travel. And something unexpected has happened along the way—others I know are being inspired to get back on their skates too. Friends who haven’t skated in years have started dusting off their old boots and joining me. It's like skating is contagious in the best possible way.

Still Rolling, Still Learning

I’m still learning how to pick up speed, still working on my technique, and now stepping (wobbling?) into the world of skate dancing. I'm not polished, and I don't need to be. Every session is a step closer to confidence, balance, and freedom.

This journey isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. It’s about taking out time for something that makes me feel alive, and connected. Skating gives me peace, and in a world that’s often too fast, too demanding, and too serious—that’s everything.

So, whether this is a midlife crisis, a passion in the making, or just a phase, I’m rolling with it.

And honestly? I’ve never felt better.