Once you've faced the inevitable and realize that you are going to fall, try to relax and fall on your buttocks. Try to fall in a controlled fashion, rather than with arms and legs splayed in all directions. Initially, you can avoid scrapes and bruises by wearing a long-sleeved sweater and long pants. Knee and elbow pads are available, but unless you are particularly accident prone, they aren't a necessity. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported that roller skates became one of the most dangerous consumer products of 1979.
Roller skating can be a positive addition to a fitness program.
However, you will have to make a deliberate effort to optimize the benefits of skating. Balance, agility and coordination will improve the more you skate, particularly if you try to develop that smooth sweeping style and remain conscious of your body position. If you progress to figure or dance roller skating or try to skate for speed, the agility factor will be enhanced further. If you skate vigorously, you will develop strength and endurance in the leg muscles. The fitness benefits and improvements in strength are directly related to the intensity and frequency of your skating.