How Can Action Sports Benefit Your Health?
Action sports, such as skateboarding, surfing, and roller skating can provide a range of physical and mental health benefits. These sports involve high levels of coordination, balance, and physical activity, all of which can improve overall health and well-being.
Here are some of the top health benefits of action sports and the muscles they work:
Cardiovascular Fitness
Action sports such as skateboarding, surfing, and roller skating require a high level of physical exertion, which can improve cardiovascular health. Surfing, for example, can burn up to 400 calories per hour and improve cardiovascular endurance and roller-skating is classed as an effective aerobic exercise that strengthens the heart. If you want to really push your endurance, try adding some uphill skates to increase that strength!
Muscular Strength and Endurance
Action sports also involve a range of dynamic movements that can help build muscular strength and endurance. Roller skating, for example, requires the use of muscles in the legs, core, and upper body to maintain balance and perform tricks. Skateboarding requires the use of leg muscles for carving and turning, as well as upper body muscles for maintaining balance on the board. Surfing provides a full body workout, from working the arms and shoulders when paddling out to catch the waves, to strengthening the quads and core by squatting to balance on your board, action sports require a combination of strength and cardio.
Coordination and Balance
Sports such as skateboarding, roller skating and surfing require a high level of coordination and balance, which can improve overall body control and stability. One of the key basics of all these sports is keeping yourself centred and balanced. Surfing, skateboarding, and roller skating all involve the use of small, stabilizing muscles in the feet, ankles, and lower legs to maintain balance on the board or surfboard. They also require close attention and quick reactions, great for improving hand-eye coordination!
Mental Health Benefits
In addition to the physical benefits, action sports can also provide mental health benefits. The rush of adrenaline and endorphins that come with participating in these sports can help improve mood and reduce stress. The sense of accomplishment and personal growth that comes with learning new tricks and skills can give a huge boost to self-confidence and self-esteem. These sports are also super sociable and a great way to make new friends in a likeminded community.
Stress Relief
Action sports provide a great outlet for stress and can help individuals release pent-up energy and emotions. Engaging in these sports can provide a sense of escape from daily stressors and can be a great way to relax and recharge. Being out in the open is a great way of increasing mood and decreasing blood pressure. Being out on your board or skates can provide a welcome break from the world.
Overall, action sports offer a fun and exciting way to improve physical and mental health. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there are action sports that can challenge and engage you at any level.