Best Slide Boards for a Killer At-Home Workout

Review & Comparison, Last Update February 29, 2024
Speed and agility training are the key factors in any sport. Whatever sport you do, you will need to develop some degree of lateral movement first. This is where a slide board will come in handy, helping you train your muscles and prepare them for more dynamic workouts. If you ponder purchasing a slide board but aren't sure which one to choose, look through our review and make your choice. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Construction
Material
Size
Side Bumpers
Usability
Weight
Warranty
 
PROS

The bumpers from the premium quality pine have the strength to withstand the toughest workouts.   

CONS

At the beginning of use, the rubber pads may leave easy-to-clean marks on the floor. 

OUR VERDICT

The Light Beats 3G Ultimate Skating Trainer which was used in the Russian Olympic training development programs is now available for everyone. Incorporate this unique slide board into your training plan and achieve new goals in sport.


detailed parameters
Construction

Two layers bonded together

Material

Top layer: Polypropylene coated with dry lubricant formula

Bottom layer: Rubber

Size

-6 ft x 2 ft

Side Bumpers

Pine wood

Usability

Slide booties, DVD lesson (35 min long), carry strap and bag

Weight

~7 lbs

Warranty

Amazon’s 30-day return policy

PROS

Slide mitts that come in the set will let you add some variety to your training, allowing you to target different groups of arm muscles.

CONS

The unusual shape of the bumpers might be inconvenient for some.

OUR VERDICT

The Obsidian Slide Board provides a challenging and highly intensive CrossFit workout, giving the user a chance to hone skating skills, get fitter, and improve overall well-being.

detailed parameters
Construction

Two layers bonded together

Material

Top layer: Polypropylene

Bottom layer: Foam padding

Size

5 ft x 2 ft

Side Bumpers

Plastic

Usability

Slide booties, slide mitts, 3 training DVDs, carry strap

Weight

~7 lbs

Warranty

Limited lifetime

PROS

The board comes with Lycra slide booties designed for smooth, friction-free movement and best-ever sliding experience.

CONS

Some users find the board not wide enough.

OUR VERDICT

Would you like to create your own at-home workout space that won't cost you a fortune? If yes, then, the Balance 1 is the right choice!

detailed parameters
Construction

One layer with non-slip backing

Material

Polypropylene

Size

-6 ft x 1.65 ft

Side Bumpers

Plastic

Usability

Slide booties (lycra), carry bag

Weight

~4.6 lbs

Warranty

Amazon’s 30-day return policy

PROS

The non-slip backing has a ridged surface that keeps it steady on any flooring type. Plus, it's made of a high-quality material so it leaves no trace on the floor.

CONS

The mesh carrying bag is pretty shoddy.

OUR VERDICT

This model is a great pick for amateurs and kids as it will help you train your balance without feeling like you're slipping all the time. It's well-made and sturdy and yet it's surprisingly reasonably priced considering the high quality.

detailed parameters
Construction

One layer with non-slip backing

Material

Polypropylene

Size

6 ft x 1.65 ft

7.5 ft x 1.65 ft

Side Bumpers

Plastic

Usability

Slide booties (lycra), carry bag

Weight

6 ft.: ~5 lbs

7.5 ft: ~6 lbs

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The side bumpers are made of extra-sturdy plastic so they won't get damaged even if you put up to 250 lbs on them. Besides, they're supported by non-slip pads on the bottom.

CONS

Some users have complained about the slide booties wearing out too fast.

OUR VERDICT

Though it's certainly quite affordable, this is a top-notch model for workouts such as leg curl and pushups as well as training with ice-like layers and sturdy bumpers for safety. While some parts of the kit are less than stellar, the overall quality makes this a real bargain for sportsmen.

detailed parameters
Construction

Two layers bonded together

Material

Top layer: Polypropylene

Bottom Layer: Rubber

Size

6 ft x 2 ft

Side Bumpers

Plastic

Usability

Slide booties, carry strap and bag

Weight

~7 lbs

Warranty

Amazon’s 30-day return policy

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Light Beats 3G Ultimate Skating Trainer

Double-layer Construction is the Key to Durability

This slide board is a great combination of superior quality and excellent durability. It’s a perfect exercise tool to add challenge and variety to your at-home workouts. The board is comprised of 2 layers bonded together. The bottom layer is coated with a durable rubber-based formula that gives a superior grip on a variety of surfaces – linoleum, parquet, concrete, and etc. The top layer is coated with a unique dry lubricant formula that completely reduces friction to provide the perfect exercise surface for off-ice practice. Ultimately, this slide board will help develop your skills to be more proficient and agile on the ice, thus boosting your confidence, needed for taking part in figure skating competitions and championships. Moreover, you will tone your leg muscles, especially the inner thigh to keep your body in a perfect shape! In fact, the Light Beats 3G Ultimate Skating Trainer has been used in the Russian Olympic training development programs, that proves its substantial efficiency benefits. The board's sliding surface is 6 x 2' that is suitable for both beginners and high-skilled athletes.

Review of Light Beats 3G Ultimate Skating Trainer

Unique Bumpers' Construction

Unlike most modern slide boards, the side bumpers of this slide board are made from the premium quality pine wood, that allows users to effectively push off and stop. Moreover, the booties can be placed on your hands to move across the board that is perfect for performing a multitude of gymnastics and fitness exercises.

Light Beats 3G Ultimate Skating Trainer in the use

What's Included in the Package?

The slide board is provided with everything you need to get to sliding. It comes with a pair of super slip one-size-fits-all booties made of high quality, friction-free material that you can wear over your athletic shoes for maximum slide effect. When you're done, simply roll the board up and put it in a carrying bag. What is more, you get a 35 minute long DVD lesson that explains how to properly do a slide board transfer and other effective whole-body exercises for targeting different muscle groups.

Detailed review of Light Beats 3G Ultimate Skating Trainer

Improve Your Balance and Coordination

Agility and coordination training are important for all skaters. Surely, you need a little prep work before diving into the high-intensity training. A short jump rope session before your workout will warm your body up and help whip you into shape. Besides, a jumping rope doesn't require much space!

Light Beats 3G Ultimate Skating Trainer application
Last updated price $169.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00GQDCHMY

 

Obsidian Slide Trainer Board 3 DVDs

Burning Calories is Much Easier

This slide board is a super versatile piece of equipment for keeping your body toned. It requires more strength and energy to keep stability, thus influencing your body into burning calories. The top layer is coated with abrasion-resistant polypropylene to provide an easy-glide and smooth surface during the whole period of use. And a foam padding keeps the board in place no matter what surface you are training on. The two plastic side bumpers allow the user to effectively push off from one of the bumpers and glide across to the opposite one. The bumpers are securely attached to the gliding surface with releasable attachment mechanisms. So, they are durable enough to withstand the push force. After finishing your workout, simply roll the board up for compact storage, thus saving space when it's not in use. Indeed, this slide board is an excellent exercise surface for off-ice practice that allows hockey players and figure skaters to build power and polish their technique.

Review of Obsidian Slide Trainer Board 3 DVDs Slide Trainer Board For Training, Weight loss

Over 100 Different Possible Workouts

This slide board is great for a full-body workout routine, as it offers a multitude of drills. You can also do yoga to take your practice to the next level. This slide board will make your drill more challenging, as it requires greater energy expenditure. What is more, booties and mitts are included with the board, that allows using this exercise tool for targeting ab, chest, shoulders, and neck muscles by placing both hands on the board. On top of that, the board is supplied with 3 DVDs with 30 popular exercises for a full-body muscular and cardio workout.

Obsidian Slide Trainer Board 3 DVDs Slide Trainer Board For Training, Weight loss in the use

Available in 2 Sizes

Many people wonder how to choose the right size of the slide board. Surely, the board's length between bumpers should be enough to easily push and reach the stop when you perform side-to-side sliding movements. However, one more important factor to be considered is the user’s height. Thus, 5-foot models are perfect for teenagers, while 6-foot boards are best suited for taller users.

Detailed review of Obsidian Slide Trainer Board 3 DVDs Slide Trainer Board For Training, Weight loss

How to Boost the Intensity of Your Workout?

The main principle of an effective training program is quite simple – loads should be increased gradually and progressively. As your body adapts to sliding, add dumbbells to your workout for reaching a new level of intensity. Remember that it’s always better to start with lightweight dumbbells and then gradually increase the amount of weight. Adding dumbbells to the lunges you will not only tone your leg and thigh muscles but also chisel your core and strengthen your arms.

Obsidian Slide Trainer Board 3 DVDs Slide Trainer Board For Training, Weight loss application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00FATJRMS

 

Balance 1 Board for Sliding

Your Personal Home Gym

Create your personal home gym with the Balance 1 slide board! This exercise equipment easily rolls up and doesn't take up too much space. The board is 6-foot long when unrolled that is ideal for athletes with different skill levels. The 1.65-foot width is enough for sliding back and forth in two directions. The side bumpers, made of heavy-duty plastic, withstand powerful sliding moves. Made from a non-skid material, the bumpers will prevent your hands from slipping down. The Lycra one-size-fits-all slide boots are included in the package to wear over your athletic shoes for effortless glide. And a non-slip bottom ensures that the board won’t move even during your most intense workouts!

Review of Balance 1 Board for Sliding

Ultra Light for the Most Comfortable Workout Experience

This slide board has an ultra lightweight construction (4.6 lbs.) and rolls up for convenient storage that is its obvious advantage over other models. Also, it comes complete with a mesh carry bag with shoulder straps, so you can ask your friends over to join you for a gym session to do a partner workout.

Balance 1 Board for Sliding in the use

What if the Board Become Less Slippery?

The slide board is manufactured from polypropylene, that makes the surface slippery enough to glide across. However, if you have noticed that your board became less slippery after a frequent use, there is a proven way to restore your original slippery surface. First, wipe the surface with a damp cloth (without using detergents) and leave it air dry. After that, apply a silicone spray for polishing the top layer. These simple preventive measures will help restore the board to its original state.

Detailed review of Balance 1 Board for Sliding

A Quick and Nutritious Snack Idea

Do you feel hungry right before your workout? But eating solid food before training can result in diminished exercise performance. The protein bar is a perfect low-calorie pre-workout snack that will help properly fuel you up for your workout. It contains a high proportion of protein and energy-boosting carbohydrates. This healthy, natural snack will take your workout to the next level as well as improve your overall health!

Balance 1 Board for Sliding application
Last updated price $333.33
Stock In stock
ASIN B01A8AX5CG

 

American Lifetime 6 Feet

Don't Let Balance Slip Away

No matter how experienced you are in skating or exercising on slippery surfaces, there’s always that small fear inside your head that you’re going to fall. Sadly, it’s often exacerbated by poorly made boards that don’t hold in place and always leave a risk of sliding out from under your feet. Thankfully, they have a worthy counterpart in the form of boards such as the American Lifetime Slide Board.

While many other models posit to have a non-slip backing, few actually guarantee that your board will stay firm on the floor. But the American Lifetime workout board has a grooved surface that grips well with all flooring types, thus leaving it completely steady even while you flail around on top. Besides, the material is designed specifically not to leave any traces so you won’t see scratches or residue on your floor after you’ve used the board.

Review of American Lifetime 6 Feet Slide Board

Devil in the Details

This model comes in two sizes with 6 ft and 7.5 ft of length with the choice entirely up to you. Taller people or those who want to do more complicated maneuvers should, of course, opt for the longer board. Meanwhile, those with little space in their homes will want the smaller option. Either way, the board is pretty light at 5 lbs and 6 lbs respectively. This is most likely due to it having just one layer of polypropylene instead of two. Don’t worry, though, as the lack of a second layer has no adverse effect on the quality of the surface, you can still skid on it just fine.

American Lifetime 6 Feet Slide Board in the use

Cat in the Bag

Last but not least, let’s quickly cover the bonuses that come in the kit with the American Lifetime slide board. The lycra slide booties here are quite good and durable, which is important since you’ll be using them as often as the board itself. Sadly, we can’t say the same for the mesh carrying bag as it’s pretty poorly made and we’d suggest finding a replacement to use instead. Otherwise, you risk the board tearing through the bag at an inopportune time. Still, the bag’s free so it’s not much of an issue for us.

Detailed review of American Lifetime 6 Feet Slide Board

A Few Parting Words

We found the American Lifetime Slide Board an excellent choice for safe and intensive workouts at home. Though it has a few mild shortcomings, we can’t deny that the quality here is great for a mid-range-priced board with good specs. It’s sturdy, won’t slip out from underneath your feet or leave marks on your floor, and the ease of use makes it great for newbies that want to master the art of balancing on slippery surfaces. We’d certainly call it a must-have for newcomers to skating and hockey.

American Lifetime 6 Feet Slide Board application
Last updated price $99.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B01N0KX2Z5

 

Hockeytrain.com Supreme

A Diamond in the Rough

Looking to keep yourself in good shape and work out your muscles but don’t have the time or budget for gym exercises or simply don’t feel like their equipment will fit your specific needs? If you said yes and want a product that will have you ready for the ice, we have something just for you. Though the Hockeytrain.com Supreme Slide Board is one of the most affordable on the market, it’s a well-made and highly useful piece of training equipment.

To start with, we have to point out that, even though they’re made of plastic, the side bumpers here are about as sturdy as wood. The compound used in their creation is specifically designed to withstand high loads and you can put your whole body weight on it without worrying about breaking the bumpers or the board itself.

Review of Hockeytrain.com Supreme Slide Board

Comes with a Bonus

We can definitely praise that same kind of sturdiness in the rest of the board but there is one part of the kit that’s not up to par. That would be the pair of slide booties, which tend to show their wear after just a few months of use. This shouldn’t be a deal breaker as you can easily buy a new pair but it’s still upsetting. Luckily, the other bonus in the kit, the carry bag, is quite well-made and doesn’t tear even with regular use. You can store the Hockeytrain.com Supreme Slide Board in the bag safely to take it with you to the gym or on a trip if you want to keep up the workouts while away from home.

Hockeytrain.com Supreme Slide Board in the use

Smooth as Ice

As for the bare specs, well, the board is 6 ft long with a polypropylene and rubber layers making it as approximate to actual ice as can be. The length leaves you enough room to maneuver a bit and test your skills. Don’t worry about straining the board as it easily supports up to 250 lbs. In fact, if you put several of these side by side, you could, potentially, train in pair with someone else, which might be a big bonus for those who figure skate in a tandem.

Our one last complaint isn’t even about the product itself but, rather, the warranty. While the 30-day Amazon money-back warranty is standard, it wouldn’t hurt to give something better than that as the rest of this model certainly goes above and beyond.

Detailed review of Hockeytrain.com Supreme Slide Board

What's Left to Say

Although we did spot a few minor issues with the Hockeytrain.com Supreme Slide Board, it would be unfair of us to suggest it’s not one of the top models on the market. It’s affordable, sturdy, and as close to the real thing as can be. If you’re an ice skater, hockey player, or just a sportsman looking to boost your agility and reflexes, choose this home workout board and get to training!

Hockeytrain.com Supreme Slide Board application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B071NZSH53

 

What Is a Slide Board?

People who play winter sports, like figure skating or ice hockey, have a year-round training facility. Though, athletes who live in warm climates face a lack of training opportunities. The only way to maintain their peak physical condition is to train on artificial ice surfaces. A slide board is a special slick mat with blocks on each end, used as stoppers and a pair of slide booties. This training tool is designed for developing lateral power, building endurance, and agility. The lateral exercises help activate the inner and outer thigh muscles involved in the skating stride. What is more, sliding-surface exercises require more strength to maintain balance and coordination. Thus, it's a whole new way to boost your training efficiency and achieve your fitness goals!

You may also consider buying hockey skates that will help improve your performance in the skating rink when playing ice or inline hockey. While in order to quickly quench thirst between sets you may want to keep a sports water bottle at hand.

What Features to Compare

Construction

Before choosing a slide board, take a look at its construction. The board construction details may vary. Typically, there are one- and two-layer boards.

  • Two-layer slide boards

The underlay is coated with non-slip reinforced rubber or foam to keep the board in place during transfer, while the top layer is usually coated either with plastic or polypropylene to allow friction-free movement and ultimate slide. Two-layer slide boards are also designed quite heavy in order to ensure a better grip with a surface. Make sure the bonding between the layers is of good quality to prevent them from falling apart.

  • One-layer slide boards

These exercising slide boards are more compact and therefore, more mobile. Its anti-slip bottom layer can be made either of plastic or polypropylene. However, it isn't as good as rubber in terms of the grip.

Size

The size of the slide board is another important aspect that deserves your attention. The wider the board is the more comfortable it will be to slide it without the fear of slipping off. It isn't the same with the length though. It's recommended that new users start with boards that make 5-7-foot in length. This is considered to be the optimal length that a beginner should be able to push off. Meanwhile, for professional athletes, the length of the board can be 8 feet and more. There are also slide boards that come with adjustable bumpers. With them, users can vary the length of the board depending on their training plan and the goals they want to achieve.

Usability Features

Adjustable side bumpers are designed for effective push-offs and can be made either of wood or plastic. They also serve as a protection, preventing the ends of the board from curling, so the board could have a frictionless and smooth surface. Boards for sliding may come with special shoe covers (also called "booties") to deliver the maximum slide effect. Even though not necessary, a lot of skating slide boards may include a carry bag and a strap for their convenient storage and transportation. Some boards can be supplied with DVDs where users can learn the proper technique.

Did you know?

Since slide boards in and of themselves aren’t much of a mystery, let’s peel back the curtain on sports and fitness, which are tied so snugly to this product. While most of us work out at least on occasion and everybody likes one type of sport or the other, there are some things that many tend to overlook.

Falling is Integral

When you watch sports films, there’s usually a certain type of vibe that they deliver. Even the groundbreaking movies such as “Rocky” end up raising your spirits, showing the hero overcoming everything and coming out victorious. However, it’s important to remember that, in most cases including even these films, there’s always a fall before the top is reached. The legendary boxer has to get beaten to remember what his craft is all about, a professional skier tumbles once or twice because he overestimated his capabilities, and newbies, of course, fall regularly.
What we’re leading towards is the fact that the art of falling is indispensable to both sportsmen and regular people. There’s a reason why many martial arts include lessons based specifically on cases where you’re losing the fight and getting thrown to the ground. Knowing how to recover from the fall saves you from damage and embarrassment as you get back on your feet quickly and spring back into the fight. And that is exactly why a slide board matters. These slippery surfaces teach you to keep balance and recover fast when you trip and fall. It’s better to hit the ground when it’s just the floor of your home and not a steep slope on the side of a huge mountain. Learn to fall so you can start to soar.

Reaction Matters as Much as Agility

Yet again, this is one that might seem like common sense to some and still it’s an oft-overlooked aspect of the sport. Hockey players, skiers, and figure skaters alike will tell you one thing - being fast or strong isn’t everything unless you can keep control of the ever-changing situation on the “playing field”. A fast skier with poor reaction time is just a collision with a tree waiting to happen while a hockey goalie with slow reflexes might as well keep his skates in the closet.
There’s quite a bit of art to keeping your cool in any situation and knowing the appropriate response or even coming up with it on the fly. Whether you’re tumbling down a steep slope towards a cliff or facing down the other team with the puck flying at you, quick reflexes and a clear mind are worth more than strong muscles. So after you’ve lifted and done push-ups and ran several miles, consider going back to the slide board and giving a workout to your reflexes.

Find That Zen

Another key factor that separates professionals from amateurs is the sense of balance. Although it’s something that most winter sportsmen learn as it’s integral to their craft, far too many others seem to omit it. However, even a basketball or football player could greatly benefit from a stronger balance. With it, you’re harder to throw off track and even a bigger guy might not be able to tackle you off of your feet. Learning to keep your body in good shape involves learning how it works and what makes it stronger in more senses than the literal.

FAQ:

Q: What surface can a slide board be used on? Can it scratch the surface?

A: A slide board has a solid, durable base, so it can be used almost on any surface without leaving scratches on the flooring. However, if you use the board on a dusty, cement floor, the rubber pads beneath the base of it may start to lose their grip. Therefore, it is better to train on a carpeted floor.

Q: How is a slide board stored?

A: A slide board can be easily stored behind the couch, under a bed or leaned against a wall. The assembled board can be attached to a wall with the help of the hooks. It can also be folded in half once the bumpers and the slide surface are removed. 

Q: What is a slide board used for?

A: A slide board is a slick mat with blocks on each side used for recovery and sports training (hockey, ice skating, rollerblading, and etc.). Also, slide boards are widely used in CrossFit training, as this exercise equipment is known for its intense cardiovascular properties. In addition to cardio workouts, a slide board is perfect for lower, upper, and core body toning.

Q: Can anyone use a slide board?

A: The benefit of using this exercise equipment is that it is very low impact. Initially, it was created as a gear to be used in recovery training by athletes, suffering from joint injuries, so they could keep active and recovery faster. So, a slide board was developed to give people an effective way of staying healthy and physically fit. However, don't overlook the amount of cardiovascular stress while performing sliding exercises. A sliding board routine is more intense than a beginner could expect. So, it’s very important to start out slow and gradually increase intensity and duration of your workout.

Q: Do slide boards stay slippery?

A: Cheap slide boards will wear and tear quickly, but most boards will serve for years, maintaining their slippery surface with no sign of wear. However, stoppers might be a weak point. The board can be damaged if you ram aggressive into the stoppers. The booties can also wear out depending on the frequency of use.

Q: Can I adjust the length?

A: Most slide boards can be adjusted, yet different size options are available. A 5-foot board fits most users unless you are over 6-foot tall. Thus, you may need a longer board. Please mind that the board which is too long will require more effort and may lead to injuries, while the board, which is too short, may not bring you the desired results.

Q: Why should I buy a slide board?

A: - Sliding across the floor is a real fun. You can make your workout more enjoyable and stay motivated. Sticking to your workout routine, you'll achieve visible results quicker.

- Burns more calories. The conducted studies prove the slide board effectiveness in burning calories. In fact, lateral movement training burns 10-13 times more calories per minute that running.

- Low impact. Sliding doesn’t hurt your joints regardless whether or not you've glided before. Still, we'd recommend you to always warm up your muscles and do some stretching exercises.

- A huge variety of workouts. There are lots of exercises you can perform on a slide board no matter what your physical condition is.

- Easy to store. You can roll your slide board up and stow it away.

Sources:

1. Rich Sadiv The 7 Best Slide Board Exercises, STACK. December 30, 2014.

2. Kyle Arsenault 11 Must-Try Slideboard Exercises for More Muscle, LIVESTRONG. July 28, 2015.

3. Benefits of a Slide Board Workout, DietsInReview.

4. Why You Need to Try Slide Boarding, Medibank. September 28, 2013.

5. Jaymjay Benefits of Slideboard Training, Visually. January 20, 2015.

6. Kyle Arsenault 8 Must-Try Slideboard Exercises for More Muscle, Yahoo. August 22, 2015.

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Publish Date: 2017-05-25 08:48:27