Slackline is a sport in which the person needs to balance under a narrow, flexible tape that is tied up a few inches off the ground. In this way, the main benefit of this sport is the improvement of the balance, since it is not possible to stay on top of the tape without a good ability to balance.
However, there are many other benefits related to the practice of this sport, such as muscle development, posture correction or improved concentration and focus, for example.
In fact, the benefits of slackline have been recognized since ancient times, being practiced in the ancient cultures of Greece, and today this sport has been practiced by a growing number of people all over the world.
1. Improve balance
This is the most obvious benefit of using slackline, because as the tape used is narrow and flexible, it is very difficult to maintain balance without falling. Thus, this is a perfect sport to avoid the loss of balance that arises naturally with age and which increases the risk of falls that can lead to serious injuries.
2. Increases body strength
To maintain the correct balance of the body over the slackline the muscles of the whole body, especially those of the core and legs, need to be constantly contracted. In this way the muscle fibers are well stimulated and the different muscles of the body become stronger.
3. Corrects posture
As it is necessary to keep the legs more stable than the upper body, it is possible to learn about the distribution of forces and weight of the body itself, which improves the posture in the day-to-day.
In addition, with improved balance and increased strength in the core and back muscles, it becomes easier to maintain a spine alignment, decreasing pain in the back and neck, for example.
4. Improve concentration, focus and memory
When you step on the slackline tape, it starts to shake a lot and so you need to keep a lot of concentration to stay on top and not fall. In this concentration exercise, the brain trains several of its abilities, being more efficient over time.
According to a study done with people who regularly practice slackline, the relationship between sport and brain development is so strong that beyond concentration it is also possible to gain more memory and improve the ability to learn.
If you have this goal, here are some exercises you can do each to improve memory and concentration.
5. Promotes social interaction
Slackline is a very fun activity that can be done with friends as it guarantees several hours of fun. In addition, the presence of friends allows you to go beyond your own limits, which helps to create even stronger bonds of friendship.
Slackline price
The price of the slackline is approximately 100 reais, however the value can vary according to the length and width of the tape, as well as the quantity of accessories included.
The equipment needed to make slackline can be purchased at any store that sells sports supplies.
Tips for Beginners
For those who have never tried slackline, climbing up the tape may seem very scary and almost impossible, however, some tips can help you get the hang of it faster. Some of these tips are:
- Do not look at your feet, instead keep your eyes focused on a point in front of you and eye line and let your balance control your feet;
- Keep your legs relaxed, because the more tight your muscles are, the more the tape will move;
- Let your knees slightly bent, as it is easier to maintain your balance this way;
- Practice for at least 20 minutes, as this is the time it takes for the brain to learn how to coordinate all the functions needed to walk in the slackline.
For those who are starting the practice of this sport it is still recommended to keep the slackline tape a few inches off the ground as it is easier to control the fear and there is less risk of injury, since falls are guaranteed.
