Skating can be not only considered as great fun but is also a great way to lose weight provided you follow a proper and regular weight regime. It is an aerobic exercise which improves strength, fitness, endurance and also promotes weight loss.Internationally the minimum time to gain any aerobic benefits from skating is put at skating for twenty five minutes. Most people enjoy skating so much that they rarely stop after twenty five minutes thus increasing the health benefits.
Some of the benefits of skating are;
Aerobic benefits
Gain in strength
Increased endurance
Reduction in body fat
A sense of mental well being
Skating does require a little more in terms of accessories compared to walking, running etc but may prove to more fun and enjoyable. You will need skates, knee braces, safety helmet and wrist guards.
Skating has lesser impact on the knees and joints when you compare it with running. It can give you benefits similar to that of moderate cycling
or running. It gives you physical, mental and emotional benefits.
Skating can be a solitary or group activity. It can not only be an exercise activity but also become a way of participating in a competitive sport.
There are many skating clubs. There are also various competitions at amateur and professional level. You can join skating clubs and may even improve your social life.
You can skate at home, to work or even in skating rinks. All these alternatives are open to you. It can be a simple way to lose weight and explore the great outdoors. You can burn calories according to your pace right from 167 to 1600 kcal (professional high intensity skaters) per hour depending on your intensity.
What may start out as an exercise to combat obesity may become much more than that if you wish. You can roll yourself to a slimmer and fitter you. You can start skating to work and not only combine your exercise routine but find a fun and environmental way to travel. As Will Young humourously says: “The only way to beat traffic wardens is to take up roller skating.”
It is an exercise for all ages. There are skaters in competitive skating who are also above 70. Skating is popular with both men and women. Both roller skating and ice skating are competitive sports as well as exercise options.
When weight loss or decreasing obesity is the reason you begin skating, it is advisable to add a good diet for weight loss to your skating schedule to get the best from this stimulating aerobic exercise.
