Skateboard for Exercise and Wellness
By Brandi Goodman
Skateboarding is often seen as a teenager's activity. The likes of Tony Hawk would disagree. Although the pro has since retired from skating professionally, he still gets on his skateboard often. The activity is extremely beneficial for exercise and wellness.
It Counts as Cardio
Cardio is necessary if you're looking to lose or maintain weight, get your body in shape, and feel good. You'll breathe easier and improve your lung capacity when you're regularly performing cardiovascular exercises that are also beneficial for your heart health. Even just skating along your street requires balance, coordination, and effort. Try unique movements and tricks and you're really working your body.
It Works Several Key Muscles
Your core stays engaged when you skateboard because you have to maintain your balance throughout the entire duration. This also helps to work the back muscles that are striving to keep your spine in place. Your legs are moving in a unique way as well, with one on the board and the other propelling your body forward by pushing off the ground repeatedly before you shift it to your board. You'll be working your quads, hamstrings, and glutes when you ride.
It Boosts Your Brain Function
Learning is great for your brain. You can enhance your brain function and improve memory when you are routinely engaging in new learning habits. Learning to skateboard counts towards this goal. You're working on learning how to balance and stay on the board as you move. You're learning new movements to perform. It will all help your mind and help prevent signs of aging on the brain as much as possible.
It Enhances Mental Health
Exercise in general is great for mental health. It releases endorphins and helps your body and mind both feel good. It works well for stress relief and easing your mind. Get outside and you're increasing that enhancement even more. Do an activity you enjoy, such as skateboarding, and you'll have even bigger benefits. It's ideal to try new activities and those you truly love when you're feeling down so you can occupy your mind and ease your stress.
Skateboarding is a great activity for people of all ages. It's never too late to learn if you don't already know how to get on the board, balance yourself, and keep it moving. You'll be engaging your core, getting plenty of cardio, and really working on your brain health when you're skateboarding regularly.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Roseville, Calif.