​Roller skating is back and more popular than ever! With its resurgence among younger generations and its numerous health and community benefits, opening a roller skating rink is an exciting and profitable venture.

Here are the top 10 reasons why you should consider opening your own roller skating rink, complete with statistics to back it up.

1. Growing Popularity
Roller skating has seen a significant resurgence in recent years. Participation in roller sports, including roller skating, grew by an impressive 11.2% in 2022, according to a study by the Outdoor Foundation. This growing trend indicates a robust market for roller skating rinks, making it a great time to invest.

2. Health Benefits
Roller skating is not only fun but also a fantastic way to stay fit. The American Heart Association highlights that roller skating provides an excellent aerobic workout that can improve cardiovascular health. An hour of moderate skating can burn up to 600 calories, making it an attractive option for health-conscious individuals. According to a study done by Journo Research, roller skating has fewer injuries than basketball, football, swimming, soccer, baseball, softball, and trampolining! 

3. Low Startup Costs
Starting a roller skating rink can be more affordable than other recreational businesses. With initial investment costs ranging from $500,000 to $1.5 million, it is significantly lower than the $5 million average required to start a bowling alley, as reported by Entrepreneur. This lower barrier to entry makes it an appealing option for aspiring business owners.

4. Community Engagement
Roller rinks serve as vital community hubs, fostering social interaction and community spirit. According to the National Recreation and Park Association, 75% of Americans believe that local parks and recreation services, including roller rinks, are crucial for community health and wellness. Your roller rink can become a beloved gathering place for people of all ages.

5. Diverse Revenue Streams
A roller skating rink offers multiple revenue streams beyond admission fees. You can generate additional income through skate rentals, concessions, arcade games, and hosting private events such as birthday parties and school functions, as well as by licensing the United Skates of America Roller Skating STEM Program that comes with several lesson plans per grade designed by college level educators for children K - 12. On average, these sources can add hundreds of thousands of dollars to your annual revenue. The STEM program alone provides upwards of $100,000 in revenue alone, providing financial stability and growth opportunities for your business.

6. Youth Engagement
Roller skating rinks provide a safe and fun environment for youth, keeping them engaged and active. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that participation in recreational activities can reduce the likelihood of youth engaging in risky behaviors by up to 30%. Your rink can be a positive influence in the lives of young people in your community.

7. Educational Programs
Many roller rinks partner with educational programs to provide unique learning opportunities. The Roller Skating Association’s STEM program integrates science, technology, engineering, and math education, reaching over hundreds of thousands of students annually. By hosting such programs, your rink can contribute to the educational development of local students.

8. Inclusive Recreation
Roller skating is accessible to a wide range of age groups and abilities, promoting inclusivity. The National Institute on Aging suggests that inclusive activities like roller skating can improve mental health and social interaction for older adults, with studies showing a 20% reduction in feelings of isolation. Your rink can be a place where everyone feels welcome and engaged.

9. Economic Impact
Roller rinks have a positive impact on the local economy. According to the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), recreational facilities, including roller rinks, contribute an estimated $219 billion to the U.S. economy annually. By opening a rink, you’ll be supporting local businesses and creating jobs in your community.

10. Sustainability and Innovation
Modern roller rinks are adopting sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient lighting and eco-friendly materials, which can reduce operating costs by up to 30%. Additionally, incorporating new technologies like virtual reality experiences can attract a broader audience and increase engagement. By staying innovative and environmentally conscious, your rink can lead the way in the industry.

Conclusion
Opening a roller skating rink offers a unique and exciting business opportunity. With its growing popularity, numerous health benefits, and potential for community engagement, a roller rink can be both a profitable venture and a valuable community asset. Whether you're passionate about skating or looking for a rewarding business idea, a roller skating rink might be the perfect fit for you.

Jump on this opportunity and roll into success! Become a Future Roller Skating Rink Owner/Operator today! 

Join us for Sk8 Expo 2024 from August 26-28 at the stunning Margaritaville Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida. This event is a must-attend for roller skating professionals, packed with activities, seminars, and networking opportunities. For members who are interested, there's a 3-Day Bahamas and Perfect Day Cruise open to all members. Details can be found on the Sk8 Expo Page under the Special Event area. Here's a detailed summary of what to expect each day:

Monday, August 26
The event kicks off with registration from 9 am to 4:30 pm, where attendees can collect their event bags and lanyards. Vendors will set up their booths for the trade show throughout the day. In the afternoon, attendees can participate in a vital CPR and First Aid Certification seminar, ensuring they are prepared for emergencies. Additionally, there’s a STEM Roller Skating Program Boot Camp from 11 am to 2 pm, offering insights into integrating educational programs to boost business revenue. Later in the day, join the bus trip to Miami Roller Skating Rink for a firsthand look at a successful rink operation, gaining valuable inspiration for your own business.

Tuesday, August 27
Start your day with a continental breakfast, fueling up for a full day of activities. The morning sessions include First Aid Certification, providing crucial training to enhance safety at your rink. Following this, RSA leadership will present an update on the association's initiatives and future plans. The day features several trade show sessions, where attendees can explore products and services to enhance their rink operations. Key seminars include ADA Compliance, offering guidance on making your rink accessible, and marketing strategies to boost revenue in any economic climate. The day concludes with a lively Welcome Reception, perfect for networking and unwinding by the beach.

Wednesday, August 28
The final day begins with a Learn to Skate Certification seminar, an excellent opportunity to ensure your staff is well-trained to deliver high-quality instruction. Throughout the day, more trade show sessions provide ample opportunities to discover innovative products and services. Highlights include a session on skyrocketing birthday party bookings, insights into successful rink operations from United Skates of America, and a marketing panel featuring industry experts. The event wraps up with a crucial reapportionment session for RSA members to discuss the future structure of the association.

Join us at Sk8 Expo 2024 to network, learn, and elevate your roller skating business. Don’t miss this chance to connect with industry leaders and gain valuable insights. See you in Hollywood, Florida!