Adding roller skating to an exercise program offers several health benefits. Skating offers an effective cardiovascular workout, endurance training, and strength training to build strong muscles in the pelvis and legs. Balance and coordination can also be improved by regular skating.

Aerobic Benefits

Even at moderate speeds, roller skating can provide an aerobic workout that improves cardiovascular health. According to Roller Skating International, the aerobic workout provided by roller skating equals that provided by running once your speed reaches 10 mph or more. Skating also causes less stress to the joints than running. Skating's low-impact quality also allows people with joint injuries or chronic joint problems to enjoy a fun and thorough aerobic workout.

Strength Benefits

According to GetRolling.com, roller skating helps build strength, especially in the muscles of the lower body. The thigh, hip, butt and calf muscles work together during skating to propel you forward and maintain balance. Stronger muscles and better coordination work together to prevent injuries and keep you active and limber as you age.

Endurance Benefits

In addition to increasing muscle strength, roller skating can help increase muscle endurance, according to GetRolling.com. Adding a few uphill climbs to each skating session trains your muscles, along with your cardiovascular system, to use the body's energy stores more efficiently. This means you can skate longer distances without becoming exhausted.

Weight Loss

According to Roller Skating International, roller skating helps encourage weight loss by burning calories and by toning muscles, which burn more calories than fat even in their resting state. Roller skating for 25 minutes three times a week can burn up to 750 additional calories for the week.

Adaptable Workouts

Roller skating can be an option if you're new to exercise or returning after a long period of inactivity because it allows you to exercise at your own pace. Even slow skating increases the heart rate and taxes multiple muscle groups. The length of time and speed at which you skate can be increased gradually. Also, roller skating can be done indoors or out. Remember to wear safety gear, such as a helmet and elbow, knee, and wrist guards to help prevent injury.