Two options for outdoor, low- to no-impact aerobic exercise are rollerskiing and inline skating. Both offer excellent cardiovascular exercise and both use wheeled devices as the main equipment, but they require different body movements for locomotion. Both rollerskis and rollerblades are available in a variety of sizes and are available for purchase from online sport shops, retail stores, and used sports equipment stores.
Rollerskiing
Rollerskiing uses ski-like equipment and is the road-equivalent of cross-country skiing. Many competitive cross-country skiers use rollerskis to stay in shape during the off-season. The movements required for rollerskiing are exactly the same as with cross-country skiing. The rollerskis are shafts about 20 to 60 inches long, with one wheel at each end, and a ski binding with which to attach the ski boot. Rollerskis come in two styles: classic and skate. Most rollerskis do not have brakes, so flat surfaces are preferred.
Rollerblading
Some people use the term "rollerblading" interchangeably with the term "inline skating," but Rollerblades are a brand of inline skates. Inline skating requires the use of inline skates, which have four inline wheels made from polyurethane. One or both skates might have a brake on the rear of the boot for slowing. The inline format provides more maneuverability than rollerskates. The movements required for inline skating are the same as for ice skating.
Comparisons
The movements required for rollerskiing as opposed to inline skating are different. Rollerskiing requires the use of the upper body for pole use, and therefore provides a more complete workout. Cross-country skiing athletes who wish to keep up on their sport during the warmer months should take up rollerskiing over inline skating. Inline skating tends to be less expensive because the skates are the only specialized equipment needed.
Equipment
Rollerskiing requires rollerskis, boots, and ski poles. Gloves and protective gear such as knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards and helmets are all recommended accessories. Rollerskiiers who plan on using public roads should also wear reflective gear so they are visible to motorists. Rollerblading requires less equipment, in that the user does not require special boots or poles. Safety gear such as helmet, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards are recommended.
References
- "Exercise and Sport Science"; William E. Garrett, Donald T. Kirkendall; 2000
- "Inline Skating"; Steve Glidewell; 2004
- Rollerblade.com
- Abc-of-skiing.com: Rollerskiing
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