Is Roller Skating Good Exercise?

Roller Skating for Exercise

Roller skating is no longer a pastime of our childhood, it has also become a mode of transportation and a favourite form of exercise for those who enjoy gliding about. Whether you are a beginner and slowly diving into the sport or a seasoned roller skater, it is important to know the health benefits of roller skating. If you are looking to get into skating for fitness but need to know ‘’Is roller skating good exercise?’’ you will learn all you need to know to make this decision below. 

Is Roller Skating Good Exercise?

Yes, roller skating is considered a good exercise. Although it may seem like an unusual exercise, roller skating offers many health benefits such as joint support, weight management, cardiovascular improvements, support to mental health and muscle strengthening. Roller skating burns anywhere between 250 to 600 calories per hour, the amount of calories depends on the individual and their intensity. 

Roller skating is known as a form of aerobic exercise and is a great way to get blood and oxygen circulating while improving overall health. “Roller skating can significantly enhance cardiovascular health,” as stated by Dr Michael Garry, a sports medicine specialist.

What are the Health Benefits of Roller Skating?

The main health benefits of roller skating, aside from being fun, include support for joint health, cardiovascular health, mental health, muscle health and weight management or weight loss. 

Joint Health

Roller skating is a low-impact activity which makes it easier on the joints, especially for those who struggle with pains and aches. The motion of smooth gliding helps reduce the strain on the joints making it a better option than running and other high-impact sports. “Roller skating offers a low-impact alternative to running, which can be particularly beneficial for those with joint concerns,” explains Dr Robert Ellis, an orthopaedic surgeon. For supplements and more continue to Joints, Bones & Muscles Health. 

Cardiovascular Health

When roller skating your heart rate gets elevated which helps make sure your heart and lung functions are efficient. Roller skating can maintain heart rates between 140-160 beats per minute, similar to jogging, according to Dr. Michael Garry, a sports medicine specialist.

Roller skating long-term has been linked to lower the risk of heart disease which further supports overall health while promoting and strengthening the heart muscle and how the blood pumps.

Mental Health

Aside from the physical benefits, roller skating has a great impact on mental health by releasing endorphins leading to improving a person’s mood and reducing stress.“The rhythmic and repetitive nature of roller skating can have a meditative effect, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression,” according to Dr Andrew Clarke, a psychologist.

Similar to a gym short, roller skating can help a person build a community with other skaters which helps their social well–being and connections. 

Muscle Health

Although it might seem like a person is just gliding on their skates, roller skating is a great exercise for the lower body, as well as the core. ‘’The repetitive motion of skating strengthens muscles in the legs, hips, and glutes,’’ explains Dr Hannah Wright, a physiotherapist.

When skating, the stabiliser muscles must be activated to keep balance on the skates, which further helps strengthen and build those muscles. The motion of skating by pushing off the ground helps work out the hamstrings, calf muscles and quadriceps. 

Weight Management

Roller skating burns around 300 calories per hour at a moderate intensity and about 600 calories per hour at a high intensity, which supports weight management and weight loss. ‘’Incorporating roller skating into a regular fitness routine can aid in weight management and improve metabolic health,” advises Dr Lisa Chang, a nutritionist.

People Also Ask

Is roller skating good exercise for weight loss?

Yes, roller skating is good exercise for weight loss, as it can burn between 250 to 600 calories per hour depending on intensity.

How long to roller skate for a workout?

For an effective workout, roller skate for at least 30 to 60 minutes per session, several times a week.

Can roller skating be an exercise?

Yes, roller skating can be an exercise that improves cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and balance.

How many hours a day should I practice roller skating?

Practicing roller skating for 1 to 2 hours a day is sufficient for most people to see fitness benefits and improve their skills.

Conclusion

Whether you plan on roller skating for fun or to exercise, the activity comes with multiple health benefits from joint support to weight management and everything in between. Unlike other sports, with roller skating, all you need is your skate, safety and can be on your way to improve your health. If you are looking for 19 Best Effective Fitness Exercise, Calisthenics for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide and more, visit Welzo.