Tipping Forward Problem

Question
Hello,

Recently, I purchased a pair of Riedell indoor/outdoor skates.  I haven't skated in 10 yrs. and I was hoping to take up the sport again for exercise.  My problem is everytime I put them on to practice in my garage and driveway my skates keep tipping forward when I push off whick causes me to fall forward.  I try to put pressure toward the back heel, but cannot stay balanced.  I never had this problem before and felt I was an OK skater.  I wear a size 7 women shoes and the skates I purchased are a  size 7 (stock#110w) from Riedells website.  I still have a little toe room left (thumbs width) and didn't know if there is something I should do to the skates to fix the problem.  Please help! I miss skating but this problem is very discouraging.

Sincerely,
Carlisse

Answer
Hi Carlisse,
  One to two things might be happening.  
1)  If you haven't skated for a while you could possibly be bending forward when you push which would tip your skates forward.

2)  If you're standing up straight when you push then I would check to make sure the front wheel is aligned directly under the ball of your foot.  If the wheel looks like it's behind the ball of your foot then that's your problem and the skates were put together wrong.  

  If that's the case, I would return them and explain the problem.  Usually Riedell is pretty good about mounting the plates on the boot but it could happen.

  If  the wheel is right under the ball of your foot, then chances are you're tipping forward when you push.  Try keeping your chest high and don't break at the waist.  Stand straight up and only bend your knees to push......don't bend your waist.

  Good Luck and remember if the skate is mounted wrong, have them give you another pair but try them on to make sure it's mounted correctly before you buy them.

  If you need help with anything else, just let me know

Pat