The pizza stop and snowplow brake


Short answer

The pizza stop, also called the snowplow, is an essential braking technique for beginners. Learn to control speed and stop effectively with this guide.


Mastering the pizza stop: A beginner's guide to braking

Learning how to stop effectively is a crucial skill for inline skating. Among the many braking techniques, the pizza stop—commonly referred to as the snowplow—is one of the most beginner-friendly methods. This technique involves angling your feet inward to create friction, helping you slow down or stop completely. Let’s break down how to master the pizza stop step by step.

Step 1: Start with the pizza point stop

Before attempting the snowplow, you need to practice the pizza point:

  • Position your feet in a V shape: Stand with your heels close together and your toes pointing outward. This is the starting stance for the pizza point.
  • Control your movements: Push your feet outward into a wide stance, then pull them back into the V shape. This motion helps you understand the resistance required for braking.

Step 2: Transition to the snowplow

Once you’ve mastered the pizza point, it’s time to take it up a notch with the snowplow:

  • Widen your stance: Push your feet outward as far as you can while maintaining control.
  • Angle your toes inward: Point your toes toward each other at a 90-degree angle to create friction.
  • Resist inward movement: Actively push against your feet trying to come together. This resistance generates the braking force.
  • Practice precision: Try stopping at specific points, like a line or an obstacle, to improve accuracy.

Tips for practicing the pizza stop

  • Choose a wet surface: Practicing on a slightly wet surface reduces friction, making it easier to slide and perfect your technique.
  • Repeat often: Consistent practice helps you build muscle memory. Spend time repeating the motion until it feels natural.
  • Avoid common mistakes: Ensure your feet stay wide throughout the stop. Beginners often let their feet come too close together, which reduces braking power.

Combining the pizza point and snowplow

For even more control, you can combine the pizza point and snowplow techniques. Start with a wide stance using the pizza point, then transition into the snowplow for a stronger stop. This combination offers versatility in different skating scenarios.


Limitations of the snowplow

While the pizza stop is a valuable skill for beginners, it does have its downsides:

  • Risk of falling: The triangular stance of the snowplow can make falling harder to control. Always wear protective gear to minimize injuries.
  • Advanced alternatives: As you progress, consider learning the soul slide, a more advanced and safer braking technique. The soul slide uses asymmetrical movements for better control and stability.


Final thoughts

The pizza stop is a foundational braking technique every beginner skater should master. By practicing consistently and focusing on form, you’ll gain confidence in controlling your speed and stopping safely. Once you’re comfortable with this technique, you can explore more advanced methods like the soul slide to further enhance your skating skills.

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