3. Don't go forking out on an expensive course until you are sure that you like the instructor. A good one will let you try out an class to see how you feel. A really good one will have the confidence to let you try out a lesson for free - knowing you will be hooked!

4. There is a direct relationship between practice and success in lessons. They feed into one another, and if you want to get the maximum from your lessons, you will have to meet your instructor half way. See practice is an extension of class, a time when the instructor is just out of sight but not out of mind, a time when you can work in private on building the muscle memory essential to skating. Practice means better balance, which means more confidence - and both are the basis of good learning.

5. Get up on your skates 15-30 minutes before you begin a lesson. As a beginner, it's normal to feel wobbly when you first get into your skates. Eventually muscle memory will be there as soon as push off and the wobbles will be gone, but until they are, give yourself time to warm up to tune your balance before you start a class.

6. Get some petrol! Keep your energy levels up by eating properly and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. When you start out, you'll tire quickly so make allowance for this. Snacking between meals is always okay if you are skating! It's important to keep your blood sugar levels up - but don't over do it or you'll end up feeling bloated and sluggish.

7. Stay off the booze. Pretty obvious really; booze will rob the beginner of what balance they have and skating on a hangover is not fun. When you are starting out, save the pub for après-skate. Once you get a couple of years experience behind you, skating when drunk (at least once) is a must. It is hilarious.