From Tucson Citizen by Sandra Valdez Gerdes - How I Did It: Student mixes in-line skating with weight training

Name: Brandon Bankert
Age: 21
Occupation: Pima Community College student
Height: 5 feet 11 inches
Weight: 155
Weight before: 145

Main accomplishment: In-line skating for cardiovascular exercise. Gained about 10 pounds of muscle with recent weight training. Background: I have been skating since I was 7. I started playing roller hockey with neighbors. In-line skating helped me to maintain my weight between 140 and 145 for the last six years...
Do you have any in-line skating advice for youth?
Definitely wear a helmet, elbow pads and knee pads. Start out small. Learn to go down the ramps. Check out Internet sites that teach the basic principles, such as form and stuff to get tips. Ask for help. Strengthen your back, abdominal and leg muscles. For (improving your) upper body and balance, you might want to try some handstands.

Why do you like in-line skating for exercise?
It helps me stay fit and when I go to the gym I can focus on my upper body and core. When I worked full-time and went to school full-time, it was also a way for me to stay sane. It helps relieve the stress of work, school and home. I'll probably never stop in-line skating.

Do you have any advice for youth regarding nutrition?
You can't eat junk. You have to eat actual food. Snacks are good if you are between meals, but you have to eat an actual lunch when you go to lunch, not more chips from the vending machine.

To read full story, go to Tucson Citizen