What Do You Need for Inline Skating

Inline skating is thrilling, but you need the right gear to stay safe and enjoy it fully. Without proper equipment, injuries can happen. But with the right setup, you’ll glide smoothly and confidently.

Many assume any pair of skates will do, but quality matters. Cheap or ill-fitting gear can ruin your experience. Investing in the essentials ensures comfort, control, and protection.

Best Inline Skates for Beginners and Enthusiasts

Rollerblade Zetrablade Women’s/Men’s Inline Skates

Perfect for beginners, the Rollerblade Zetrablade features a comfortable soft boot, breathable liner, and 80mm wheels for smooth rides. Its aluminum frame ensures durability, while the easy-to-use buckle system provides a secure fit. Ideal for fitness skating on paved trails.

K2 Kinetic 80 Pro Inline Skates

The K2 Kinetic 80 Pro offers superior cushioning with a responsive fit, thanks to its BOA lace system. The 80mm wheels and rockered frame enhance maneuverability, making it great for urban skating and intermediate skaters seeking speed and control.

Powerslide Phuzion Radon 90 Inline Skates

For those ready to advance, the Powerslide Phuzion Radon 90 features 90mm wheels for speed and a trinity mount frame for better power transfer. The memory-fit liner ensures comfort, while the reinforced shell adds stability—ideal for fitness and long-distance skaters.

Best Protective Gear for Inline Skating

Triple 8 Certified Sweatsaver Helmet

A top safety pick, the Triple 8 Sweatsaver meets CPSC and ASTM certifications. Its moisture-wicking liner keeps you cool, while the adjustable fit system ensures comfort. Ideal for skaters prioritizing head protection without sacrificing style.

187 Killer Pads Pro Derby Knee Pads

Built for impact resistance, the 187 Killer Pads feature thick D3O foam and a hard cap for maximum knee protection. The breathable mesh and secure straps make them comfortable for long sessions, whether skating or performing tricks.

Ennui City Brace Wrist Guards

The Ennui City Brace offers dual-splint support to prevent hyperextension injuries. Its low-profile design doesn’t restrict movement, while the padded palm absorbs shock. A must-have for skaters who prioritize wrist safety without bulkiness.

Best Maintenance Tools for Inline Skates

Bones Bearings Skate Tool

This multi-functional tool includes a 3/16″ Allen wrench, 1/4″ socket, and axle nut driver—essential for adjusting frames and wheels. Compact yet durable, it’s a must for on-the-go skate maintenance.

Bont Skate Cleaning Kit

Keep bearings rolling smoothly with Bont’s cleaning kit, which includes degreaser, lubricant, and a cleaning container. Perfect for extending bearing life and maintaining peak performance, especially for frequent skaters.

Rollerblade Wheel Puller Tool

Removing stuck wheels is effortless with Rollerblade’s puller tool. Its sturdy metal construction prevents damage to bearings, making wheel swaps quick and frustration-free—ideal for aggressive and urban skaters.

Choosing the Right Inline Skates: A Complete Guide

Understanding Skate Types for Different Styles

Inline skates aren’t one-size-fits-all. Your skating style determines the best design. Fitness skates (like Rollerblade Macroblade) prioritize speed and comfort with larger wheels (80mm–90mm) and breathable boots. Aggressive skates (Roces M12 Lo) feature smaller, harder wheels (54mm–60mm) and grind plates for park tricks. Urban skates (Powerslide Next) balance durability and maneuverability with shock-absorbing frames for city terrain.

Beginners often make the mistake of buying aggressive skates for casual skating, which leads to discomfort and fatigue. For recreational use, prioritize soft boots and smooth-rolling wheels. Speed skaters need stiff boots (like Bont Jet) for energy transfer, while slalom skaters require flexible cuffs for intricate footwork.

Key Components That Affect Performance

Every part of your skate impacts your experience:

• Boot Material: Soft boots (K2 Kinetic) offer comfort but less support; hard shells (Seba FRX) provide ankle stability for tricks.
• Wheel Size: Larger wheels (90mm+) maintain speed but reduce agility. Smaller wheels (76mm–80mm) offer quicker turns for beginners.
• Bearings: ABEC-7 or higher (e.g., Bones Reds) reduce friction for smoother glides. Rustproof bearings are essential for outdoor skating.
• Frame: Aluminum frames are lightweight and durable, while composite frames absorb vibrations for rough surfaces.

Fit and Sizing: Avoiding Common Mistakes

A proper fit prevents blisters and improves control. Measure your foot in centimeters and consult brand-specific charts—sizes vary widely. For example, Rollerblade skates often run true to size, while Powerslide models are narrower. Your toes should lightly touch the toe box without curling.

Break-in periods are normal, but pain isn’t. Heat-moldable liners (like those in Flying Eagle F6S) customize the fit. Avoid buying oversized skates “to grow into”; excess space causes instability and increases injury risk.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Regular upkeep keeps skates rolling smoothly:

1. Clean bearings monthly with a degreaser (Bones Speed Cream) to remove dirt.
2. Rotate wheels every 8–10 hours to prevent uneven wear.
3. Tighten axles before each session to avoid wheel wobbles.

Store skates in a dry place to prevent rust. For urban skaters, replace wheels every 3–6 months depending on pavement roughness.

Budget vs. Quality: Finding the Balance

Entry-level skates ($100–$200) like the Rollerblade Zetrablade are great for beginners but may lack adjustable frames. Mid-range options ($200–$300), such as the FR Skates FR3, offer better support for progressing skills. High-end models ($400+) (Powerslide Tau) use premium materials for competitive skaters.

Investing in quality pays off—cheap plastic buckles or weak frames fail quickly. However, avoid overbuying; a beginner doesn’t need carbon-fiber boots. Prioritize replaceable parts (like buckles) to extend skate life.

Mastering Inline Skating Techniques: From Basics to Advanced Moves

The Fundamentals of Proper Stance and Balance

Before attempting any movement, mastering the athletic stance is crucial. Bend your knees at a 110-120 degree angle, keeping your weight centered over the balls of your feet. Many beginners make the mistake of standing too upright, which reduces stability and control. Imagine sitting in an invisible chair – this position lowers your center of gravity and prepares you for movement.

Practice static balance exercises first: Try lifting one foot slightly off the ground while maintaining the bent-knee position. The “scissors stance” (one foot slightly ahead) helps with forward momentum. Common errors include leaning too far forward (risking falls) or backward (straining the lower back).

Essential Stopping Techniques for Safety

Learning to stop properly prevents accidents and builds confidence. The three fundamental methods are:

1. Heel Brake Stop: Extend your braking foot forward, tilt toes upward, and apply gradual pressure to the heel pad. Works best at moderate speeds.
2. T-Stop: Form a “T” shape with your skates, dragging the back foot perpendicular to your direction. Requires strong ankle control.
3. Powerslide (Advanced): Rotate hips 90 degrees while sliding wheels sideways. Needs precise weight distribution and waxed surfaces.

Most recreational skates come with heel brakes, but learning multiple stopping methods is essential. Practice at slow speeds (3-5 mph) on smooth, flat surfaces before attempting hills. Never rely solely on grass or walls to stop – this develops bad habits.

Developing Efficient Pushing Technique

Proper pushing maximizes speed while conserving energy. The key lies in using your edges effectively:

• Start with feet in a “V” position (heels together, toes apart)
• Push diagonally backward with one foot, transferring weight to the gliding foot
• Keep pushes short and controlled (about 45 degree angles)
• Alternate sides smoothly without bouncing

Common mistakes include “duck walking” (keeping both feet on the ground) or overextending pushes (causing imbalance). For endurance skating, focus on longer glides between pushes. Speed skaters use more aggressive, shorter strokes at higher cadence.

Transitioning to Advanced Maneuvers

Once comfortable with basics, progress to crossovers for turning efficiency. The motion resembles an ice skater’s edge work:

1. Approach turns with speed in athletic stance
2. Lift outside foot and cross over the inside foot
3. Push through the crossover to maintain momentum
4. Alternate sides fluidly for continuous circles

Start with wide arcs on a basketball court, gradually tightening turns. For urban skating, practice quick 180-degree transitions (called “mohawks”) by opening your hips while keeping feet parallel. Always wear full protective gear when attempting new maneuvers.

Advanced Wheel and Bearing Science for Optimal Performance

Understanding Wheel Durometer and Diameter Dynamics

Inline skate wheels are classified by two critical specifications: durometer (hardness) and diameter. The durometer rating (measured in “A” scale) directly impacts grip and durability. Softer wheels (78A-85A) provide better shock absorption for rough surfaces but wear faster, while harder wheels (86A-93A) offer speed on smooth terrain but less vibration dampening.

Surface Type	Recommended Durometer	Optimal Diameter
Outdoor/Rough Pavement	78A-82A	80mm-90mm
Indoor Rinks	85A-88A	72mm-80mm
Aggressive Park Skating	88A-93A	54mm-60mm

Bearing Precision and Maintenance Protocols

ABEC ratings (1-9) indicate bearing tolerance, but don’t tell the whole story. High-performance bearings like Bones Swiss Ceramics use superior materials that outperform standard ABEC-7 bearings. For maintenance:

1. Deep Cleaning: Remove shields and soak in citrus cleaner for 30 minutes
2. Drying: Use compressed air to remove all moisture from races
3. Lubrication: Apply 1 drop of speed cream per bearing (avoid over-lubrication)
4. Rotation: Swap bearing positions every 20 hours of skating

Professional skaters recommend replacing bearings every 6-12 months depending on usage. Rustproof bearings with rubber seals (like Twincam ILQ-9) last longer in wet conditions but require more frequent cleaning.

Advanced Frame Alignment and Wheel Rockering

Competitive skaters often customize their frame setup for specific disciplines:

• Flat Setup: All wheels touch ground equally – best for beginners and stability
• Full Rocker: Middle wheels raised 1-2mm for enhanced maneuverability
• Banana Rocker: Only front and rear wheels contact – extreme agility for slalom
• Forward Rocker: Front wheel slightly elevated – improves acceleration

Adjusting frame tightness affects power transfer. Over-tightening (beyond 40Nm torque) can crack frames, while loose bolts cause dangerous wheel wobble. Use a precision torque wrench for professional-level adjustments.

Temperature and Surface Adaptation Techniques

Wheel performance varies dramatically with environmental conditions. In hot weather (above 85°F/29°C), switch to harder wheels to prevent excessive wear. For wet conditions, use specially grooved wheels (like UC UC-55) that channel water away. Cold weather skating requires softer compounds that maintain flexibility below freezing temperatures.

Professional tip: Carry two sets of wheels for competitions – harder for morning cool conditions, softer for afternoon when asphalt heats up. Always test new wheel setups in controlled environments before attempting high-speed runs.

Customizing Your Inline Skates for Performance and Comfort

Advanced Boot Fitting and Heat Molding Techniques

Professional-level skate customization begins with perfecting the boot fit. Heat-moldable shells (found in higher-end models like the Powerslide Tau) allow for millimeter-precise adjustments. The process involves:

1. Pre-heating: Use a specialized oven at 160-180°F (71-82°C) for 8-10 minutes
2. Application: Wear thin skating socks and immediately insert your feet
3. Molding: Apply targeted pressure to problem areas (ankle bones, toe box) for 10-15 minutes
4. Cooling: Keep skates on until completely cooled to retain shape

For non-thermoformable boots, professional skate shops can perform punch-outs using hydraulic presses to relieve pressure points. Common problem areas include the navicular bone (inner ankle) and fifth metatarsal (outer foot).

Custom Footbed and Orthotic Solutions

The stock footbeds in most skates provide minimal support. Upgrading to performance insoles can dramatically improve power transfer and reduce fatigue. Consider:

Foot Type	Recommended Insole	Benefit
High Arches	Superfeet Carbon	Provides medial support and energy return
Flat Feet	Sidas Custom 3D	Controls overpronation with deep heel cup
Neutral	eS Footbeds Pro	Balanced cushioning for all-day comfort

For serious skaters, custom orthotics made from 3D foot scans provide the ultimate in support and energy transfer. These typically require a podiatrist visit and cost $300-$500.

Advanced Frame Positioning and Alignment

Micro-adjusting your frame position can solve common skating issues:

• Stability Problems: Move frame 2-3mm toward the inside edge
• Ankle Roll: Shift frame slightly forward (5mm increments)
• Knee Pain: Adjust frame to center under the ball of the foot
• Speed Optimization: Position frame toward the rear for longer pushes

Use a laser alignment tool for precision adjustments. The “paper test” (sliding paper under wheels while standing) helps verify even weight distribution. Competitive skaters often have asymmetrical setups for their dominant side.

Specialized Lacing and Strap Configurations

The lacing pattern dramatically affects performance:

Speed Skating: Skip eyelets over the instep for maximum forward flex
Urban Skating: Criss-cross lacing with double knots at pressure points
Aggressive: Hockey-style lacing with waxed laces for lockdown
Marathon: Loose over the toes, tight at the ankle

Consider adding aftermarket straps like the Powerslide SL Speed Lacer for micro-adjustments during long sessions. For maximum heel lock, use the “runner’s loop” technique on the top eyelets.

Long-Term Skate Maintenance and Performance Optimization

Comprehensive Wear Analysis and Replacement Cycles

Understanding component lifespan is crucial for maintaining peak performance. High-quality skates can last 3-5 years with proper care, but individual parts require different replacement intervals:

Component	Average Lifespan	Replacement Indicators	Cost Range
Wheels (Outdoor)	3-6 months	Flat spots >2mm, visible core	$40-$100/set
Bearings	6-12 months	Rust, grinding noise, >15% speed loss	$30-$150/set
Liners	1-2 years	Compressed foam, loss of shape	$60-$200
Frames	2-4 years	Cracks, bent axles, stripped threads	$80-$300

Advanced Cleaning and Storage Protocols

Professional-level maintenance extends beyond basic cleaning:

1. Post-Session Routine: Wipe down boots with microfiber cloth, remove debris from wheel hubs
2. Weekly Deep Clean: Disassemble frames, ultrasonic clean bearings, inspect for stress fractures
3. Monthly Overhaul: Check all hardware torque, condition leather parts, assess cushioning
4. Seasonal Storage: Loosen all buckles, insert boot shapers, store in breathable bag with silica gel

For urban skaters, salt residue from winter roads requires special attention – use a vinegar solution (1:3 ratio) to neutralize corrosion. Always dry components completely before reassembly.

Environmental Considerations and Sustainable Practices

The skating industry is moving toward eco-friendly solutions:

• Biodegradable Wheels: New plant-based urethane formulas (like Matter G13) offer 80% less environmental impact
• Recycled Materials: Brands like Rollerblade now use 30% recycled PET in boot construction
• Bearing Maintenance: Switching to plant-based lubricants reduces toxic runoff
• Upcycling: Old frames can be repurposed as skate trainers or DIY projects

Consider the total lifecycle cost – a $300 skate lasting 5 years with replaceable parts often proves more sustainable than buying multiple cheap pairs.

Future-Proofing Your Setup

Emerging technologies are changing skate maintenance:

Smart Skates: Bluetooth-enabled bearings (like Spinner Smart) track rotation speed and wear patterns
Self-Lubricating Systems: Nano-coated bearings requiring 75% less maintenance
Modular Designs: Swappable components that extend product lifespan
3D-Printed Parts: On-demand replacement for rare or discontinued components

Invest in tools that will remain relevant: precision torque wrenches, bearing presses, and quality edge tools. The most future-proof skates feature standard mounting systems (165mm, Trinity, UFS) ensuring parts availability for years.

Specialized Training Techniques for Performance Enhancement

Biomechanics of Efficient Skating Form

Mastering proper biomechanics can improve speed by 15-20% while reducing injury risk. The kinetic chain in inline skating involves precise coordination between:

• Ankle Dorsiflexion: Maintains 10-15° angle during pushes for optimal power transfer
• Knee Flexion: 110-120° in the glide leg absorbs impact and stores elastic energy
• Hip Extension: 30-45° backward push maximizes stride length
• Core Engagement: Transverse abdominis activation stabilizes the pelvis during single-leg phases

Common form errors include excessive upper body rotation (wasting energy) and incomplete knee extension (reducing push effectiveness). Video analysis at 240fps helps identify these micro-inefficiencies.

Periodized Training Programs for Different Disciplines

Elite skaters follow structured 12-16 week cycles:

Phase	Speed Skating Focus	Aggressive Focus	Marathon Focus
Base (4-6 wks)	Aerobic endurance, technique drills	Basic trick consistency	Long slow distance
Build (4 wks)	Lactate threshold intervals	Complex trick combinations	Tempo skating
Peak (2-4 wks)	Race-pace simulations	Competition run practice	Fueling strategy tests

Off-season training should include 2-3 cross-training sessions weekly (cycling for endurance, plyometrics for explosive power). Always periodize intensity to prevent overuse injuries.

Advanced Drills for Skill Development

Targeted drills address specific performance aspects:

1. One-Leg Glides: Build balance – aim for 8-10 seconds per leg
2. Slalom Weaving: Place cones 2m apart to improve edge control
3. Backward Crossovers: Develops hip mobility for complex maneuvers
4. Hill Descending: Start at 5% grade to perfect speed control
5. Jump Transitions: Practice 180° aerial turns with proper knee absorption

Use heart rate zones for endurance training (Z2 for base, Z4 for intervals) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) for technical sessions.

Recovery and Injury Prevention Protocols

Professional recovery strategies include:

• Cryotherapy: 3-minute ice baths post intense sessions reduce inflammation
• Myofascial Release:
  

  Use lacrosse balls on IT bands and hip flexors

  
  
• Nutrition Timing: 20g protein + 40g carbs within 30 minutes post-session
• Sleep Optimization: Aim for 7-9 hours with temperature regulation

Common overuse injuries (patellar tendinitis, ankle impingement) can be prevented with proper warm-ups (10-15 minutes dynamic stretching) and deload weeks every 4-6 weeks.

Competition Preparation and Performance Optimization

Event-Specific Equipment Tuning

Elite competitors customize their setups based on event requirements and environmental factors. The table below shows how world-class skaters adjust their configurations:

Event Type	Wheel Configuration	Bearing Choice	Frame Length	Boot Stiffness
Sprint (500m)	110mm 88A (3×1 setup)	Ceramic hybrid (ABEC 9)	Short (231mm)	Carbon fiber (100+ stiffness index)
Marathon (42km)	125mm 85A (flat 4)	Stainless steel (ABEC 7)	Long (295mm)	Composite (70-80 stiffness)
Slalom	80mm 83A (banana rocker)	Twin-cam ILQ-9	Medium (243mm)	Ankle-cut design

Professional tuning includes microscopic bearing inspection, wheel hardness testing with durometers, and laser alignment of frames. Many skaters maintain multiple pre-tuned setups for different weather conditions.

Race Day Preparation Protocol

World champion skaters follow meticulous pre-competition routines:

1. 72 Hours Before: Taper training to 30% volume, complete equipment final checks
2. 24 Hours Before: Course walkthrough, visualization exercises, hydration loading
3. Race Morning: Dynamic warm-up sequence (45 minutes), equipment temperature acclimation
4. Final 60 Minutes: Bearing lubrication check, wheel rotation confirmation, mental focus drills

Nutrition timing is critical – consume 60g carbs/hour during endurance events through isotonic drinks and gels. For sprints, caffeine loading (3-6mg/kg) 60 minutes pre-race improves reaction time.

Advanced Pacing Strategies

Different race distances require specific energy management approaches:

• Sprints: All-out effort with perfect technique execution
• Middle Distance: Negative split strategy (second half faster)
• Marathon: Aerobic threshold maintenance (80-85% max HR)
• Elimination Races: Tactical positioning with controlled surges

Use GPS smartwatches with skating-specific algorithms to monitor lap times and power output. Elite skaters maintain cadence between 120-140 strides/minute for optimal efficiency.

Post-Competition Recovery and Analysis

Professional recovery protocols include:

0-30 Minutes: Active cool-down (50% race pace), protein-carb shake
2-4 Hours: Compression therapy, cold water immersion
24 Hours: Video analysis session with coach
48 Hours: Equipment performance debrief (bearing wear patterns, wheel deformation analysis)

Maintain detailed training logs tracking equipment configurations, environmental conditions, and performance metrics to identify patterns over multiple competition cycles.

Final Thoughts on Mastering Inline Skating

Inline skating offers endless possibilities for fitness, competition, and pure enjoyment. We’ve covered everything from selecting the right gear to advanced performance techniques. Proper equipment, maintenance, and training form the foundation of success.

Remember that quality matters in every component – from wheel hardness to bearing precision. Your skating style determines your ideal setup. Whether you’re rolling through city streets or competing professionally, customization is key.

Consistent practice with proper form will yield the best results. Start with fundamentals before progressing to advanced maneuvers. Always prioritize safety with protective gear and smart training habits.

Now it’s time to put this knowledge into action. Grab your skates, hit the pavement, and experience the thrill of gliding with confidence. The skating journey begins with that first push – where will yours take you?

Frequently Asked Questions About Inline Skating

What’s the Difference Between Inline Skates and Rollerblades?

Inline skates and Rollerblades are often used interchangeably, but there’s a key distinction. Rollerblade is actually a specific brand that popularized inline skates. All Rollerblades are inline skates, but not all inline skates are Rollerblades. The main technical difference lies in the wheel configuration – true Rollerblades typically feature a specific frame design and wheel spacing that differs from other brands.

When choosing between brands, consider your skating style. Rollerblade offers excellent recreational models, while brands like Powerslide or FR specialize in performance-oriented designs. The wheel hardness, bearing quality, and boot construction vary significantly across different manufacturers and price points.

How Often Should I Replace My Skate Wheels?

Wheel lifespan depends on usage and skating surface. For casual skaters on smooth pavement, wheels typically last 6-12 months. Aggressive skaters may need replacements every 3-4 months. The key indicator is when wheels develop flat spots exceeding 2mm depth or when you see the plastic core starting to show through the urethane.

Rotate your wheels every 8-10 skating hours to ensure even wear. Outdoor wheels (78A-85A hardness) wear faster than indoor wheels (85A+). Keep spare wheels on hand if you skate frequently, and always replace wheels in complete sets for balanced performance.

What’s the Best Way to Stop for Beginners?

The heel brake is the safest stopping method for novices. To execute properly, shift your weight to the non-braking foot, extend the braking foot forward at a 45-degree angle, and gradually apply pressure to the brake pad. Practice at slow speeds (3-5 mph) on flat surfaces first.

As you progress, learn the T-stop by dragging one foot perpendicular behind you. This requires more balance but gives better control. Never rely on grabbing objects or skating into grass to stop – these methods can cause injuries and don’t develop proper braking technique.

How Do I Prevent Blisters When Breaking in New Skates?

Proper fit is crucial – your toes should lightly touch the front without curling. Wear moisture-wicking skating socks (not cotton) and apply anti-friction balm to hot spots. Break skates in gradually, starting with 15-20 minute sessions and increasing duration over 2-3 weeks.

For persistent problem areas, use moleskin padding or consider heat-molding if your boots support it. Many high-end skates have thermoformable liners that can be customized to your foot shape using a specialized oven or heat gun process.

What Safety Gear is Absolutely Essential?

A certified helmet (CPSC or ASTM F1492) is non-negotiable. Wrist guards are equally critical as wrist fractures are the most common skating injury. Knee and elbow pads complete the essential protection package. Look for hard plastic caps with comfortable, breathable padding that stays in place during falls.

For urban skating, consider padded shorts for hip protection. Children and beginners should wear full sets, while experienced skaters might customize based on their discipline. Remember that no gear prevents all injuries – proper technique and situational awareness are equally important.

Can I Use My Outdoor Skates Indoors?

While possible, it’s not ideal. Outdoor wheels (softer, grittier) will leave marks on indoor surfaces and don’t perform well on smooth floors. The dirt accumulated from outdoor use can damage indoor rink surfaces. If you must use them indoors, thoroughly clean the wheels and bearings first.

For frequent indoor skating, invest in separate indoor wheels (85A-90A hardness). These provide better grip on polished surfaces. Some skaters keep two complete wheel/bearing sets they can swap depending on where they’re skating that day.

How Do I Maintain My Bearings Properly?

Clean bearings every 20-30 skating hours or after wet conditions. Remove shields and soak in citrus-based cleaner for 30 minutes. Dry completely with compressed air, then apply 1-2 drops of speed cream per bearing. Avoid over-lubricating as this attracts dirt.

High-quality bearings (like Bones Swiss or Twincam ILQ) last longer but still require maintenance. For casual skaters, replacing bearings annually may be more practical than frequent cleaning. Always store skates in a dry place to prevent rust formation in the bearing races.

What’s Better for Fitness: Inline Skating or Running?

Inline skating provides comparable cardiovascular benefits to running with significantly less joint impact. A 155-pound person burns about 300 calories in 30 minutes of moderate skating versus 240 calories running. Skating engages more muscle groups, particularly the core and glutes.

However, running builds bone density better and requires less equipment. For comprehensive fitness, many athletes alternate between both. Skating is ideal for those with joint issues or looking for low-impact cross-training. Always consider your specific fitness goals and physical condition when choosing.