An Absolute Beginner's Guide to Skateboarding

Skateboarding is awesome, we can all agree. It's a sport that offers a blend of skill, coordination, and balance. Whether you're a youngster or an adult, the joy of skateboarding is open to all. Joe Eberling, the godfather of skateboarding and founder of The US Skateboard Education Association, emphasises that skateboarding shares a learning curve with other sports. The abilities required for skateboarding, such as maintaining balance, standing on the board, and propelling oneself forward, are analogous to those employed in activities like ice skating and roller skating, both of which adults of all ages have successfully embraced.

While seeking the guidance of a certified skateboard coach or professional is great for novices to learn proper techniques, learning the fundamentals independently is also very fulfilling. The essentials are suitable equipment and adherence to rules concerning skateboarding areas. Prior to setting off on your skateboarding journey, ensure you equip yourself with the appropriate protective gear. This includes donning a helmet, along with knee and elbow pads, as well as wrist wraps or pads. Safety should always be a priority. Now, let's delve into the essentials of getting started with skateboarding.

Finding Your Stance: Regular or Goofy?

Before you kick off your skateboarding venture, it's essential to determine your preferred stance on the board. The two primary stances are "regular" and "goofy." In the regular stance, your left foot takes position at the front of the board, while your right foot propels you forward. Conversely, the goofy stance involves placing your right foot at the board's forefront and using your left foot for momentum. To ascertain your natural stance, envision a situation where you're about to slide on a slippery surface – whichever foot you instinctively position in front is likely your leading foot on the skateboard.

Achieving Balance: The Key to Riding Success

Maintaining balance on a skateboard is a fundamental skill that lays the groundwork for your entire skateboarding journey. Begin by practicing static balance on a flat surface. Stand on the board with your feet positioned according to your chosen stance. Distribute your weight evenly and find your equilibrium. Gradually shift your weight back and forth, adapting to the subtle movements of the board. This exercise enhances your stability and prepares you for the dynamic nature of skateboarding.

Kick Off and Cruise: Your First Skateboarding Moves

Now that you've mastered your stance and balance, it's time to learn the art of pushing off and cruising on your skateboard. Position yourself on the board with your front foot aligned just behind the front bolts. Use your back foot to push against the ground, propelling yourself forward. As you gain momentum, place your back foot onto the board and position it near the tail. Your front foot should remain perpendicular to the board for control. Bend your knees slightly to absorb vibrations and maintain stability. Practice this motion repeatedly until you feel comfortable cruising at a steady pace.

Skateboarding holds immense potential for personal growth and enjoyment. With dedication and practice, you'll gradually conquer the basics and unlock a world of exciting tricks and maneuvers. Remember, every skateboarder starts as a beginner, and progress stems from consistent effort. Embrace the learning process, stay safe, and relish the exhilaration of mastering a new skill. Happy skateboarding!

Don't forget to checkout our range of beginner skateboards if you're just starting out and also remember to take a look out our skateboard buying guide for more info and help in buying your first skateboard. Our skateboard sizes include 8.25 skateboards and 8.50 skateboards. Stay safe and happy skating!