Rollerskating vs. Inline Skating vs. Rollerblading

Question
I am looking to lose some weight and have become bored with the "usual"
exercises that various fitness experts recommend (i.e. running, walking,
jogging, elliptical, etc.), not to mention my shins hurt badly when I jog/run.  I
have always loved rollerskating but haven't done it in years.  First of all, am I
correct in thinking that rollerskating is skating with 4 wheels (2 in front, 2 in
back)?  What is inline skating/skates? Rollerblading...the skates with the
wheels all in one line from front to back?  (like ice skates but they have
wheels rather than a blade, correct?).  What is the difference?  I just want to
make sure I'm on the same page.  I know how to rollerskate (4 wheels), but
have always had trouble balancing with rollerblades.  I would like to stick with
rollerskating, however, I want to get the most benefit and the most calories
burned.  Which type of skating will do this?  Is this a good form of cardio
exercise?  I feel like it would be but you never see this mentioned anywhere
as a form of burning calories and raising your heart rate.  How does it
compare with walking/running/jogging/swimming/biking/eliptical???  Also,
the only way that I have ever rollerskated is in a circlular roller-rink...is this
just as effective as rollerskating outside?  Basically, what will give me the best
fitness results?  Any exercise plans to consult?  Please let me know.  I know I
have a lot of questions but if you could get back to me on this ASAP, I would
appreciate it.

Answer
Hi Stephanie,
  Yes you are correct in thinking that roller skating is with 4 wheels....2 in front and 2 in back.  Rollerblading and Inline skating are the same...with the wheels in one row lined up behind each other.  

  There are few differences but mostly a matter of preference.  Rollerblades became a popular trend when roller skating (4 wheels) started to lose popularity.  But now both are very popular again with roller skating back on the rise.  Roller skates give you a little more maneuverability but a lot of people enjoy the rollerblades.  Like I said.....it's a matter of preference because either one will give you the cardio workout you are looking for and burn pretty much the same calories.

  Here are some skating facts that are put out by the Roller Skating Assoc. head office.

1)  Roller skating involves almost all of your body's muscles and is equivalent to jogging in terms of its health benefits, according to UCLA research.

2)  One hour of moderate roller skating burns 300 calories (six miles per hour) on a 143 pound person.

3)  Roller skating is an aerobic activity.  Aerobic activities strengthen the heart muscle.  Stronger hearts pump more blood per beat and can circulate as much blood with fewer beats.  By reducing your heart rate 10 beats per minute, you can save 14,000 heartbeats a day.

  I would suggest if you enjoy roller skating more than roller blading....stick with the roller skating.  Skating in an indoor rink is just as beneficial as skating outdoors.  Should you decide to venture outside, just make sure you invest in outdoor wheels for your roller skates.  

  The outdoor wheels are a little softer and wider to prevent injury if you hit a pebble etc.

 Find 1 or 2 local roller rinks and get their schedule for public sessions.  I'm sure between the 2 rinks you'll be able to work out a weekly schedule that you'll be happy with.  You'll enjoy yourself, get a cardio workout and make new friends.

  If you're interested in a more intense workout check with the local rinks to see if they have a speed team.  They have regularly scheduled practice times and often allow others to join them strictly for the workout.

  Good Luck and if you have any other question, feel free to write me again.

Pat