Inline Skating Burns
the Carbs
If one wants to exercise for health purposes, competitive skating is hard to beat. For skaters who want to remain or become healthy by skating recreationally, rather than competitively, the same benefits are realized, though on a smaller scale.
Skaters, especially inline skaters, burn more fat calories than participants of many other sports, develop stronger cardiovascular systems, and strengthen mid-body muscles from their upper legs through their lower backs. Muscles in the arms and shoulders of skaters also are strengthened through the arm motion that accompanies ice, inline and quad skating.
In addition, skating is regarded as a low-impact sport, meaning it is easier on the knees and other joints of participants than activities such as running or cycling are. Skating also is considered by many to be a pleasurable endeavor with beneficial health side effects, instead of disciplined exercise.
Stacy Akana, CEO of the newly formed International Speed Skating Federation (ISSF) of Liberty Lake, Washington, asserts competitive skating includes wider age parameters than any other sport. Where else can you see 4-year-old skaters and 80-year-old skaters compete against their peers he asks.
Akana contends that skating, especially inline skating can become a major weapon in the battle against major health problems in the U.S. such as childhood obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
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