February 13, 2017 / by Emma Jones

It’s true – inline skating is making a comeback. More and more people nowadays decide to give this retro activity a second chance, but this time the fun factor isn’t the most important one; believe it or not, health is. Here’s how the human body can benefit from this unique physical activity.

First of all, experts say that inline skating can be a great way to maintain a healthy body weight. According to Harvard Health Publications, a 57-kg person can burn 210 calories by gliding on their inline skates for 30 minutes. Furthermore, inline skating is a low-impact workout (it places very little stress on the joints), which makes it ideal for those whose joints and knees hurt from walking, running, and jumping on solid surfaces.

Moreover, regular rollerblading sessions can help you build up your upper leg muscles, lower back muscles, glutes, and hips. Since this activity requires balancing on one foot at a time, it can help you improve your balance and increase your agility. You will be glad to learn that aside from your legs, inline skating works your arms and core muscles as well because you use them to balance yourself and maintain your forward momentum.

Another strong reason to dust off your old inline skates or buy a brand new pair is the fact that rollerblading can help you lower your blood pressure and your risk of heart disease. Plus, it’s super fun and relaxing. That’s precisely why people don’t perceive inline skating as exercising.

In order to reap the above-mentioned benefits of inline skating, you need a nice pair of inline skates and protective gear (wrist guards, elbow pads, knee-pads, and a helmet). If you haven’t cruised on inline skates before, you should definitely opt for recreational ones, i.e. skates with 72-80 mm inline speed wheels. By using such skates you will be able to learn how to roller skate more quickly and stay safe.

Recreational/urban inline skates (80-84 mm wheels) are suitable for those who are returning to inline skating after a long period of time. Performance skates are skates that come with 80-100 mm inline speed wheels. They are intended for recreation, freestyle rollerblading, cross-training, and even marathon skating. Advanced inline skaters should look for a pair of skates that’s suitable for their surroundings and the type of rollerblading they will be doing. Keep in mind that smaller wheels offer more maneuverability, but larger ones (90 and 100 mm inline speed wheels) can provide you with both speed and performance.