After playing it fairly safe for the first 23 years of my life, I decided I wanted to do something most people I know cannot even begin to picture me doing: in-line skating. One week in, I’m not where I want to be just yet, but I’ve made great progress and am enjoying the process of learning something new. I thought it fitting for me to share my new passion with the DrJays family and possibly encourage someone out there to pick up some type of skate or skateboard very soon.

5. It’s A Good Form of Exercise

So, in order to skate,  you’re engaging your arms and legs to pick up speed and cover distance while on wheels. Can you say cardio? Besides the obvious aerobic effect of all the movement, however, maintaining the balance on one’s skates engages the abdominal muscles (you’ll feel it when you’re done, trust me). In fact, it engages the lower abdominal muscles, which are the hardest to define in a “six pack.”

4. It’s More Fun Than Running

For people who are just beginning, running sucks. There is no endorphin release whatsoever, only pain. Taking a stab at skating isn’t nearly as painful (granted that you can stay off the ground) and involves more speed due to the wheels. Less pain + more speed = more fun!

3. It’s An Alternate Form of Transportation

Especially in big or crowded cities where there are sidewalks everywhere and most people walk or ride bicycles, skating just adds another possible method of getting from point A to point B. Particularly when going to and from work/school – places where stress can easily find you – getting a physical release and a bit of freedom might not be a bad idea.

 2. It Can Be Sexy

Skating is a very smooth undertaking. The more comfortable you get on your skates, the more flexible and fluid your movements become and that can translate into some serious sex appeal. Fellas, don’t act like at least one of your fantasies doesn’t involve Tara Lipinski or Michelle Kwan for this very reason.

1. It’s A Challenge!

One of the greatest ways to develop some self-confidence is to conquer something that seemed challenging or intimidating to do. Skating is definitely a challenge, as maintaining balance and trying not to fall at least not in front of people are enough in and of themselves to keep most of us plenty busy for awhile. Just remember to lean forward, bend your knees, and keep some pressure on the balls of your feet, and you’ll be zooming by in no time.

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