Skating is equivalent to jogging in terms of health benefits-caloric consumption, reduction of body fat, and leg strength development. Roller skating is recognized and recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA) as an aerobic fitness sport. Just one hour of moderate roller skating burns 330 calories for a 143 pound person. If that same person roller skates vigorously, they will burn up to 590 calories per hour.
According to a study conducted at the University of Massachusetts, in-line skating cause less than 50% of the impact shock to joints compared to running.
Knowing a child could be over their healthy weight, it is always advisable to have a physician endorse them as safe to try skating for maintaining better health. Most skating facility offer beginning skate classes that would help educate children on skate safety.
Always wear protective gear when skating in outdoor conditions. Helmet, knee and elbow pads are the basics
Obesity in America has become a serious health problem. If that isn’t bad enough we’re passing it on to our children. Research has shown that children who have a parent that is obese are 40% more likely to be obese. When both parents are obese that number is doubled to 80%. The results are children having metabolic syndrome at an early age including the onset of arterial disease among other problems. Take a look at these facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Among children aged 6 to 11 years, the prevalence of obesity has more than doubled over the past three decades, rising from 6.5% in 1980 to 17% in 2006. The rate among adolescents aged 12 to 19 years has more than tripled during the same period, increasing from 5.0% to 17.6% Childhood obesity has both immediate and long-term impacts.
*Young people who are obese are at greater risk for bone and joint problems and sleep apnea.
*Obese children and adolescents can suffer social and psychological problems, such as stigmatization and poor self esteem.
*Six in ten obese young people have at least one additional risk factor for heart disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
*Type 2 diabetes, stroke, several types of cancer, are also known risk factors of obesity in children.
Remember this: Good eating habits, REGULAR PHYSICAL EXERCISE, are critical for maintaining a healthy weight.