Kids and Parenting

Before you begin skateboarding you will want to equip yourself with these handy suggestions that will ease your entrance into this sport. A keen sense of balance and movement are required, and the first skill that all skateboarders need to master is learning how to stand. Knowing how to push, move, and turn are also important skills that need to be acquired before you attempt any tricks. By mastering the basics you will enjoy the experience of this popular adrenalin sport.

The wearing of a helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads should be considered to be non-negotiable protective items. Since most people fall forward, wearing a wrist guard is a good optional extra since it can prevent a sprained wrist. Your shoes should be sturdy enough to provide adequate ankle protection, and thick enough so that they don’t wear out too quickly, yet still manage to allow you to feel the board with enough sensitivity.

It is important to make sure that your board is the right size for your height, otherwise you may compromise your stability. The width of the board will determine whether you will use it mostly for ramps, street and tricks, or general transport. If you are in doubt about what is the most appropriate board for your needs, you will find that most skateboard shops will usually have an attendant who will be able to assist you in making an informed decision about your purchase.

Learning how to stand properly on the board is the first step to mastering the basics. If you stand with your left foot in front and push with the right you will be adopting a regular stance, otherwise you will be standing what is known as a “goofy” position.

You will find it easiest to maintain your balance if you place your feet in the centre of the bolts on the deck. By adopting a surfer stance as if you were riding a wave you will gain additional balance. Keep your are outstretched while slightly bending your elbows and knees.

To get moving, you will need to propel yourself by pushing with your back foot. Keep your front foot just off centre to gain additional stability while you push-off. Using your front foot to push=off is considered a bad practice because it will only cause you to push slower and also reduce your stability. Once you are moving, you will find that you can gain momentum by doing an easy move called a tic tac.

Moving in a straight line is not much fun, so you will need to also master turning. This is easily done if you lean with your hips as you go through a corner or a bend. Even more important, is that you adjust your weight distribution through your feet to assist your body as you lean through the corner. Lean back on your heels to turn right, and forward on your toes to turn left. Jumping off the board or doing a power slide is an easy way to stop.

Mastering skateboarding will bring a great sense of satisfaction and venues like skating parks will offer a safe place for you to gain the necessary practice. Always seek the advice from an expert before trying anything that is above your level of experience.