How to Learn to Skateboard

How to Learn Skateboarding: A Beginner's Guide

Want to learn skateboarding? Awesome! It's super fun and challenging. This guide will teach you everything, from picking your first board to landing an ollie. Get ready to ride!

Choosing Your Skateboard Gear

Before you even try a trick, you need the right stuff. Good gear makes learning safer and more fun. Think of it like this: you wouldn't try to bake a cake without the right ingredients, would you?

1. The Deck:

• Size: Depends on your height and shoe size. Beginners? Start with a smaller deck (around 7.75" - 8.0" wide). It's easier to control.
• Shape: Most beginner decks are symmetrical – the same on both ends. This helps with balance.
• Material: Usually 7-ply Canadian maple wood. It's strong and flexible.

2. Trucks:

• Size: Match the deck size. Smaller decks need smaller trucks.
• Type: Standard trucks are great for beginners. They're stable and easy to turn.

3. Wheels:

• Hardness (durometer): Measured in A (like 99A). Higher numbers mean harder wheels. Softer wheels (around 99A or lower) are better for bumpy ground. Harder wheels are faster but less forgiving.
• Size: 52mm - 54mm is good for beginners. Bigger wheels roll over bumps easier.

4. Bearings:

• ABEC rating: Higher is better (ABEC 7 or higher). This means they'll spin smoother.

5. Grip Tape:

• This is essential! It keeps your feet from slipping.

6. Protective Gear:

Seriously, this is important! Always wear a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads, especially when starting out. You will fall. Trust me.

Mastering the Basics

Got your board? Let's learn the fundamentals.

1. Getting Comfortable:

1. Stand next to your board. Feel its weight.
2. Practice putting your feet on the board. Figure out your stance (regular – left foot forward, or goofy – right foot forward).
3. Stand on the board while holding onto something for balance.

2. Pushing:

1. Push off the ground with your back foot.
2. Start with small pushes. Gradually go faster.
3. Bend your knees. This helps with balance.
4. Keep your weight centered.

3. Steering:

1. Lean to turn. Small shifts in your weight will steer you.
2. Practice gentle turns first.

4. Stopping:

1. For beginners, drag your back foot on the ground.
2. Practice this in a safe, open area.
3. Learn other ways to stop as you get better.

Learning Some Tricks

Mastered the basics? Time for some simple tricks! Be patient. It takes time. Don't get discouraged.

1. The Ollie:

This is a foundational trick. It's popping the board in the air. Lots of online videos show how to do it. Focus on timing and practice.

2. Manual:

Balancing on your back wheels. Practice on a slight incline first.

3. Shove-it:

Rotating the board under your feet. Focus on the pop and the rotation.

Skateboarding Tips

• Practice regularly: The more you practice, the better you'll get.
• Start slow: Don't try hard tricks too soon.
• Find a safe place: Smooth surfaces are best.
• Watch tutorials: YouTube is your friend!
• Wear protective gear: Always!
• Be patient: It takes time to learn.
• Have fun! That's the most important part.

Advanced Tricks (For Later!)

Once you're good at the basics, you can try kickflips, heelflips, and other cool tricks. There's tons to learn!

Skateboarding Safety

Safety first! Wear gear, choose safe places, and be aware of your surroundings. Never skate in traffic. Consider lessons from a pro – it can really help.

Conclusion

Learning to skateboard is a journey. Be patient, practice, and have fun! Get out there and start rolling!