How to Skateboard for Beginners

Introduction

Skateboarding can seem intimidating at first, but it’s a fun and rewarding activity once you get the hang of it. As a beginner, understanding the fundamentals is crucial to your success and enjoyment. This guide covers everything from choosing the right skateboard and essential safety gear to learning basic movements and beginner tricks. By the end of this article, you’ll have a solid foundation for your skateboarding journey.

Choosing the Right Skateboard

Selecting the right skateboard is the first step towards an enjoyable skateboarding experience. For beginners, both quality and ease of use are key considerations. Skateboards come in various shapes and sizes, each suited to different styles and levels of expertise.

1. Deck: The width of the deck is crucial. Beginners should opt for a wider deck, typically between 7.5′ and 8.25′. This provides better stability and control.

2. Trucks: These are the metal parts that attach the wheels to the deck. Ensure they are the right size for your deck width. Standard aluminum trucks are good for beginners.

3. Wheels: Softer wheels (with a durometer rating between 78A and 87A) offer better grip and are more forgiving on rough surfaces, making them ideal for new skaters.

4. Bearings: ABEC ratings indicate the precision of the bearings. ABEC-3 or ABEC-5 bearings provide a good balance of speed and durability for beginners.

Essential Safety Gear

Safety gear is non-negotiable when learning to skateboard. Here’s a list of must-have protective gear:

1. Helmet: A well-fitted helmet protects your head from serious injuries.
2. Knee Pads: These protect your knees from scrapes and impacts during falls.
3. Elbow Pads: Prevents elbow injuries when you tumble.
4. Wrist Guards: Reduces the risk of wrist fractures and sprains.
5. Skate Shoes: Proper skate shoes offer better grip and support.

Wearing this gear ensures you’re protected, allowing you to focus on learning and having fun without the fear of injury.

Getting Started: The Basics

Before attempting tricks, it’s vital to master the basics of skateboarding.

Stance and Balance

1. Stance: Determine if you are regular (left foot forward) or goofy (right foot forward). Stand on the board and feel which stance is more comfortable.
2. Balance: Practice balancing by staying stationary on your skateboard. Bend your knees slightly to lower your center of gravity and improve stability.

Pushing Off and Rolling

1. Pushing Off: Place your front foot near the bolts of the front trucks. Use your back foot to push off the ground gently. Once you gain momentum, place your back foot back on the board.
2. Rolling: Practice rolling with slight pushes. Focus on staying balanced and maintaining a steady stance.

Stopping Techniques

1. Foot Brake: Place your back foot on the ground to slow down. This is the simplest and safest stopping technique for beginners.
2. Heel Drag: Tilt your back foot so your heel drags on the ground, helping to slow down gradually.

Fundamental Movements

Learning to maneuver the skateboard is crucial for all future skills and tricks.

Turning and Carving

1. Leaning: Lean your body in the direction you want to turn. For sharper turns, shift your weight more drastically.
2. Carving: Carving is a series of gentle turns to maintain speed and control. Practice by leaning left and right as you roll.

Foot Positioning

1. Regular Riding: Your front foot should be near the front truck bolts, and your back foot should be on the tail.
2. Shifting Feet: For certain tricks or movements, you’ll need to adjust your foot positioning. Practice shifting your feet while maintaining balance.

Beginner Tricks to Learn

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start learning beginner tricks. These tricks form the foundation for more advanced skateboarding techniques.

How to Ollie

1. Position: Place your back foot on the tail and your front foot between the middle of the deck and the front bolts.
2. Pop and Slide: Pop the tail down with your back foot and slide your front foot upward to level the board in the air.
3. Landing: Aim to land with both feet over the bolts to ensure stability upon impact.

Shuvit Basics

1. Foot Placement: Place your back foot on the tail and your front foot just behind the front bolts.
2. Shove and Jump: Scoop the tail backward with your back foot while jumping straight up. Your front foot guides the board as it spins 180 degrees.

Manual Practice

1. Start Position: Place your back foot on the tail and your front foot near the front bolts.
2. Lift the Front Wheels: Shift your weight to the back foot to lift the front wheels off the ground. Maintain balance by adjusting your body position.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Beginning skateboarders often make some common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Incorrect Stance: Many skaters choose an uncomfortable stance. Practice to determine if you are regular or goofy.
2. Poor Balance: Spend adequate time practicing balance before attempting to move.
3. Looking Down: Always look ahead and not at your feet. This helps in maintaining balance and anticipating obstacles.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll progress faster and with more confidence.

Practice Routines and Tips

Consistent practice is key to mastering skateboarding. Here are some tips and routines:

1. Daily Practice: Spend at least 30 minutes daily on basic skills like pushing off, balancing, and stopping.
2. Skate with Friends: Learning with others can be motivating and provide opportunities for feedback and improvement.
3. Watch Tutorials: Online tutorials can be useful for visualizing techniques and understanding different styles.
4. Journaling: Keep a journal of your progress, noting what worked and what needs improvement.

Conclusion

Skateboarding is a rewarding hobby that requires practice, patience, and the right equipment. By following this beginner’s guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the basics and enjoying the thrill of skateboarding. Keep practicing and stay safe!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best skateboard for beginners?

For beginners, it’s recommended to choose a skateboard with a deck width between 7.5′ and 8.25′, soft wheels, and durable trucks and bearings.

How long does it take to learn basic skateboarding?

Learning the basics of skateboarding can take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the frequency of practice and individual aptitude.

What should I wear while learning to skateboard?

Always wear a helmet, knee and elbow pads, wrist guards, and proper skate shoes to ensure safety while learning to skateboard.