cardiovascularworkout-related stories
Ready to Strap on the Rollerblades? Get Your Ankles in Shape First
Advice, Fitness, Ask a Fitness Expert
Dear Sarah,I have always wanted try rollerblading, and at the end of last season I purchased a pair of rollerblades. The things is, I'm am a little nervous about using them. As a kid I tried to figure skate, but I was never steady on my skates as I felt like my ankles were weak. Can you suggest some exercises to make my ankles stronger?
Thanks,
Ingrid
Dear Ingrid,
Rollerblading is a great outdoor workout, and spring is the perfect season to get started. Rollerblading can help you develop a strong lower body and it's also great cardiovascular workout. And you're right, your ankles are a very important joint for rollerblading as they support your body weight while in motion. Training the muscles of your lower legs and increasing your balance will definitely help your performance.
Ask a Fitness Expert: Is Rollerblading a Challenging Workout?
Health, Fitness, Ask a Fitness Expert
Dear Sarah,
I love to exercise outdoors and I'm wondering if rollerblading is an effective workout.
Thanks,
Paige
Dear Paige,
Yes, rollerblading (or roller skating) is a great workout for the whole body. As your body is in constant motion, it's good for cardiovascular training. Your quads, hamstrings, inner thighs, glutes and abs get toned, and as a bonus, you can develop muscles in the upper arms and shoulders if you swing your arms while skating. As well, your sense of balance improves because it takes coordination and balance to stand up on the wheels of your skate.
There are two main types of outdoor skates. Inline skates usually have between 3 and 5 wheels per skate arranged in single line. Roller skates have 4 wheels per skate and are arranged like the wheels on a car. When you are shopping for skates, wear a good pair of sports socks and make sure the boots fit your feet properly. (If the fit is wrong you'll end up with blisters and pain). Skates with plastic heels and molding as well as laces are generally the best for support. Try to avoid purchasing the cheapest skate on the market: remember, they will be responsible for supporting your whole body weight while in motion.
