Electric skateboards are cool, motorized boards that let you zip around with ease, adding a twist of excitement to your daily commute or weekend adventures. But here's a question that might be on your mind: can riding one of these boards actually help keep you fit? In this article, we'll talk about the health benefits they offer, some helpful tips to make the most of your rides, some words of safety advice, and much more. So, let's roll right in!
What are Electric Skateboards?
Electric skateboards are skateboards equipped with an electric motor that propels the rider forward without having to push off the ground. Contrasting with regular skateboards, which are totally human-powered, electric boards have all the basic components like batteries, motors, and remote controls, facilitating higher speeds and less physical efforts.
How People Ride Electric Skateboards
Riding an electric skateboard is a mix of balance, control, and a bit of technique. Many riders get on the board with one foot on it while the other foot remains on the ground. Gradual acceleration can be achieved by pushing the throttle on the handheld remote. Riding it would typically involve steering by leaning in the desired direction or shifting body weight, just as in traditional skateboarding. For those new to electric skateboards, getting comfortable with the speed and controls might take a little practice.
The Fitness Benefits of Riding an Electric Skateboard
Engage Core Muscles
Riding an electric skateboard requires balance and stability- much more involves core engagement. Your core should be engaged to keep you upright each time you twist, turn, and adjust your pose. The more this works, the more it might strengthen core stability, just like other forms of balancing exercises, such as yoga or pilates. Often, riders would find themselves subtly training their abdominal and back muscles during their rides, improving overall core strength.
Lower Body Workout
Your legs are very crucial in balance and control. When navigating turns, starting, or stopping, your thighs, calves, and ankles take on light resistance training that can strengthen muscle tone and endurance. Besides, if you choose to push the board with your hands when the battery gets dead or at intervals, you are giving your legs extra workouts.
Mental Health Benefits
Besides physical health advantages, there are striking mental health benefits. Skating outdoors can help to decrease stress significantly. Flipping in the air, the wind hitting your skin, stimulates endorphins that elevate your mood. It will also create a positive attitude towards going outdoors and regular activity, which is great for one's mental health.
How to Maximize Fitness While Riding Electric Skateboards
Incorporate Intervals
Try adding interval training to your rides. Instead of fully using the motor, also try to challenge yourself by including some physical riding, like pushing the board manually. For example, you ride five minutes using the motor and then switch into one minute of pushing, resuming again to powered riding. In this way, it raises heart rates and involves different muscle sets.
Combine with Other Exercises
An electric skateboard can be used as a supplement in one's general fitness routine. For a well-rounded approach, think about forming a combination of skateboarding with other forms of exercise, such as jogging, swimming, or weight training, which can help fill in the gaps and work muscles that may not get utilized very much while riding. This cross-training improves overall physical conditioning and also reduces the risk of injury.
Ride in Varied Terrains
Taking your electric skateboard on various terrains also helps. Find routes that include hills, rough surfaces, or trails instead of smooth pavement. This option not only engages your body much more but is also more interesting. The added difficulty with diverse landscapes means you're working harder and benefiting more from your ride.
Practice Balance and Tricks
Adding in some basic tricks or balance exercises can be another way to improve your overall fitness level. Basic moves that include sharp turns, obstacle weaving, and kick turns all require you to engage muscles and focus. As you improve your balance and coordination, you'll not only enhance your riding skills but also engage your core and lower body more effectively.
Set Goals and Track Progress
Be it a target distance that you are trying to achieve, or completing a certain number of rides every week, having certain goals in mind can give direction to your fitness regimen. You may use a fitness tracker or a mobile app to track your rides, monitor the speed and distance, and even your heart rate during rides. Reflecting on how far you have improved can be incredibly rewarding and might even urge you to push your limits even more.
Safety Considerations When Exercising with E-Skateboards
Wear Protective Gear
Always wear a helmet, knee, and elbow pads, and wrist guards when riding. This protection gear greatly minimizes injury rates once falls or collisions occur, helping you ride more confidently and safely.
Know Your Local Laws
Familiarize yourself with the local regulations concerning electric skateboards. Some have certain rules about where you can ride, or speed limits. Obeying these laws will greatly help you avoid any accidents, fines, and legal issues.
Inspect Your Equipment Regularly
Before every ride, check your skateboard for any damage or wear. Inspect the wheels, brakes, battery, and remote control. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and minimizes the risk of accidents caused by equipment failure.
Practice in Safe Areas
If you are a beginner, orient yourself with the electric skateboards in safe, open spaces away from traffic and people. Find some parks or empty lots to practice your skills, then proceed to busier environments.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Always be aware of your surroundings. Watch for pedestrians, other cyclists, and road hazards such as potholes or debris. Being aware allows you to react quickly and avoid collisions or accidents during your ride.
Ride at a Controlled Speed
It's pretty easy to get carried away with speed on an electric skateboard, but for the most of it, you want it to be at a controlled pace. Riding too fast increases the danger of falling off or losing control, particularly on a bumpy road or busy street.
Use Lights and Reflective Gear
Put lights on your skateboard and wear reflective clothing if you ride after dark. Most night-time collisions involve pedestrians or cyclists who have not been seen.
Avoid Distractions
Don't ride with distractions: no cell phone use, no headphones playing loud music. The inability to react to environments heightens the chances of accidents.
Know Your Limits
Know your ability and experience level, and don't attempt maneuvers or speeds beyond your comfort zone. Aim for gradual improvement while prioritizing safety and control.
Get Active on an Electric Skateboard!
Riding an electric skateboard can definitely keep you fit if you approach it mindfully. While it offers core engagement and lower body workouts, be aware of its limitations, like reduced physical exertion. To help maximize the health benefits, try to mix in interval training and explore varied terrains, you can enjoy the thrill while staying active. No matter it's commuting, cruising in the park, or hitting hilly trails, every ride is a chance for fitness and fun—so embrace the adventure and enjoy the ride!
