5 surprising benefits of slacklining
What's the story
Slacklining has been taking the world by storm, and for good reason.
The balance sport, which involves walking or balancing on a tensioned line, offers unique benefits.
Unlike tightrope walking, slacklining employs a flat webbing that stretches and bounces like a trampoline.
Not only does this fun activity push your physical limits, but it also offers some unexpected benefits.
Here are five of them.
Core strength
Improves core strength
Slacklining demands your core muscles to be engaged all the time to keep your balance on the line.
This constant engagement contributes to the strengthening of your abs and lower back, which ultimately results in better posture and stability.
Just a few days of practice can boost your overall core strength without even hitting the gym for sit-ups or planks.
Mental focus
Enhances concentration and focus
Balancing on a slackline requires extreme concentration and focus as you take each step carefully.
This mental engagement can enhance cognitive functions like attention span and problem-solving skills over time.
The requirement to stay present in the moment while slacklining reflects in better focus in day-to-day tasks.
Coordination skills
Boosts coordination and balance
With its dynamic nature, slacklining greatly improves coordination by requiring simultaneous control over different body parts.
As the practitioners concentrate on maintaining balance, their brain becomes better at processing information about the position of their body.
This results in a marked improvement in balance and coordination skills.
The improvements are not just limited to slacklining but carry over to other physical activities, enhancing overall athletic performance.
Stress relief
Reduces stress levels
Going slacklining can also be a great way to relieve stress as it has a meditative quality to it.
The focus it requires takes attention away from stress, and encourages you to be relaxed and mindful.
Further, being outdoors while doing it can also boost your mood by exposing you to fresh air and the beauty of nature.
Flexibility gains
Increases flexibility
Slacklining consists of movements that stretch different muscle groups, thus increasing flexibility over time.
As you transfer weight from one foot to another or do some tricks on the line, muscles are gently stretched beyond their normal range of motion.
This gradual improvement in flexibility helps in preventing injuries while performing other physical activities.