It’s important to warm up your muscles before any vigorous physical activity, and roller skating is no exception. But how exactly should you do that? Keep reading for some roller skating warm up tips from the pros at Rainbow Roller Rink.
Why Are Warm Ups Important?
According to the American Heart Association,
A good warm-up before a workout dilates your blood vessels, ensuring that your muscles are well supplied with oxygen. It also raises your muscles’ temperature for optimal flexibility and efficiency. By slowly raising your heart rate, the warm-up also helps minimize stress on your heart.
In addition to the cardiovascular benefits, warming up reduces stress on your joints and tendons. It helps you to loosen up and reduces the risk of sprains and strains. Plus, if you do these warm up exercises regularly, you’ll probably notice an improvement in your flexibility over time!
Roller Skating Warm Ups
Basic Squats
Inhale deeply, then exhale as you squat, keeping your arms straight forward and your head and knees aligned over your feet. Repeat until you start to feel the burn, and remember to take it slow. After each warm up exercise, take a water break to stay hydrated.
Jump Squats
This warm-up exercise is just a slightly different version of normal squats. For these, start in the squat position with your arms straight in front of you. Jump and inhale while swinging your arms back. As you land, exhale and swing your arms forward again. Keep doing this for several minutes, focusing on forcefully exhaling with each landing.
Crossover Squats
Start by facing forward with your feet shoulder width apart and your arms at your sides. Take a wide step forward across your body, while lowering yourself into a lunge position. As you move, bring your opposite elbow close to your front knee. Remember to exhale as you lunge and inhale as you return to your starting position. Alternate back and forth several times, until you feel the burn in your inner thighs.
Hamstring Stretch
After putting your skates on, start by laying on your back with your knees bent and your skates flat on the floor. Raise your hips and prop yourself up with your hands. Your upper arms should be flat on the ground, while your forearms are up at a 90 degree angle. Roll your right leg out straight in front of you while keeping your hips in place and level. Roll it back and alternate with the left foot. Once you’re all warmed up and ready to go, it’s time for the fun to begin! Check out our skating schedule to plan your next visit to the rink. You won’t want to miss our fun events like Adult Retro Skate (18+) or Skate & Dance Fridays!
Do you offer roller skating lessons?