Believe it or not, slide boards are not a new idea. In fact, the whole idea of slide training began about 100 years ago, when European speed skaters had some creative uses for a metal barn door. They nailed pieces of wood to each side and waxed the surface to make it more slippery. Then, they performed movements that imitated the biomechanics of their sport.
Slide boards did not become a fitness trend until the late 80s. For reasons unbeknownst, it was a trend that would be short lived. However, professional athletes still sing the praises of the many benefits of the slide board. If you are wondering what makes them so special, read on.
Slide boards provide lateral movement training. Since most people are more accustomed to forward and backwards movements, slide boards give you the opportunity to use muscles that you do not use in your daily activities. That said, many athletic activities such as cross country and alpine skiing, skating and soccer do require lateral movement. A slide board can enhance skills and movement efficiency for these sports. Slide boards also provide what is known as closed chain exercise. This means that the foot is always in contact with the ground while performing sliding movements. Many sports medicine experts believe that closed chain exercises are healthiest for the joints. While most sliding movements involve leg work, you can also put the sliding booties on your hands to perform upper body exercises.
Although the slide boards never became a lasting trend, the gliding discs are slowly gaining popularity. The concept is similar to sliding, with one distinct difference: rather than a singular board, gliding uses two discs that are shaped like paper plates.
What to Look for
If you are on a tight budget, the gliding discs are the more economical choice. You can choose from discs designed for either carpeted or wood floors. Be sure to purchase disc sets that come with a video or DVD.
For slide boards, you can choose between boards that are five feet and boards that are six feet long. Some are as long as ten feet long. Keep in mind that the longer slide boards require more power and energy in order to get from one side to the other. For a beginner, that might be a bit challenging. Some boards come with adjustable end ramps. As you gain strength and skill, you can set them further apart, which will provide a greater challenge.
You will also want to choose between the hard boards and the soft boards. The hard boards weigh 20 pounds. They can not be folded for storage. However, they will always keep their shape.
Common Pitfalls
The softer boards weigh a bit more than five pounds. They can be folded for storage. However, after unfolding them, the end ramps tend to flip up. Some people solve this problem by placing a small hand weight on top of each ramp. However, it is better to select a board whose end ramps have enough weight to keep the slide board flat when it is unrolled. Avoid the slide boards that are made with straight end ramps. They will put too much stress on your knees. Angled end ramps are more functional.
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