Kick Scooters: A Surprising Form of Exercise?
When we think of exercise, we tend to imagine sweating it out at the gym, pounding the pavement on a run, or even taking a yoga class. But what if we told you that there’s another form of exercise that’s gaining popularity, and it involves a children’s toy? Yes, we’re talking about kick scooters. You may have seen people zooming around on them in your neighborhood or on city sidewalks, but can they really give you a good workout? Let’s take a closer look.
The Benefits of Kick Scooting for Fitness
First, it’s important to note that kick scooting isn’t just for kids anymore. Adult-sized kick scooters are widely available and can support weights of up to 220 pounds. According to a study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, kick scooting can offer moderate to high-intensity training, depending on factors such as speed, incline, and duration. This means that it has the potential to improve cardiovascular health and even burn calories.
Kick scooting can also be a low-impact workout, which is a plus for those who may be dealing with joint pain or injuries. Because it’s a non-weight-bearing exercise and doesn’t involve any jumping or hard landings, it can be gentler on the body than other forms of cardio. Additionally, kick scooting can improve balance and coordination, as the rider must constantly shift their weight to control the scooter.
How to Make the Most of Your Kick Scooting Workout
If you’re interested in trying kick scooting as a form of exercise, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, safety should be a top priority. Always wear a helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads, and make sure that your scooter is in good condition before riding. It’s also important to choose an appropriate location to ride, such as a flat, smooth surface with minimal pedestrian or vehicle traffic.
To get the most out of your kick scooting workout, focus on maintaining good posture and engaging your core muscles. Keep your back straight and your abs tight as you ride, and try to avoid leaning too far forward or back. Vary your speed and include hills or inclines if possible to increase the intensity of your workout.
The Bottom Line on Kick Scooting as Exercise
While kick scooting may not be a traditional form of exercise, it certainly has the potential to get your heart rate up and provide a challenging workout. However, as with any physical activity, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid overdoing it. If you’re looking for a fun way to stay active and explore your surroundings, kick scooting could be the perfect fit.
