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Jan 9, 2000 Hi Tony! I'm new to skating and I knew I'd love it before I started. I'm an injured runner and skating doesn't jar my knees. I bought a pair of skates at a store with poor support staff, luckily I managed to get a good fit, I think. I bought a pair with a soft boot and they're very comfortable for 15-20 minutes but then I get ankle fatigue only on the right foot. It's a pair of K2's Power-A's which I can't find any info on.(scary!) The top strap is velcro type and the ankle strap is a rachet-buckle and, it's hard to tell but I think that's where the trouble is. If you have any insight on this I'd appreciate it. Thanks for all the info on the web, you've got a great sight! Tom

Hi Tom, What you're experiencing is actually fairly common to new skaters. I don't know if there's a technical name for it, but new skaters often start to feel pain in their calves, ankles and feet after skating for a short while. Partly it is because you're using some muscles you haven't had to use much before. Another possible reason is that your boots don't fit quite right, although you say they're comfortable at first. Make sure they are as snug as possible without hurting. Your toes should be able to wiggle freely. Assuming your skates fit though, I'm guessing that the main cause may be that you're unconsicously tensing your legs and feet when you're skating. It's natural to feel unstable on inlines when you're new to them. This can cause your body to tense up in an effort to avoid falling. After you tense too long, you can cramp up in your lower legs and your feet. So what to do then? Well, in a word: relax. Easier said than done, I know, but as you get more proficient on your skates you will be more confident, and hence, more relaxed. Wearing all your safetly gear is also a big help to being more relaxed. If you know you won't be hurt if you fall, you'll be more relaxed. Different people need different approaches to relaxing. For some, maybe taking lessons, or just skating with more experienced skaters will help. For others, maybe you want to take a few practice falls or rolls (on grass preferrably 8-) In any event, don't forget to have fun! If you're not having fun, you're probably not going to be relaxed. -Tony