The first step with a wave board is learning how to stay up. Then you figure out how to do sweeping curves and take corners, and you start getting a feel for weight transfer. You may even be able to crouch and grab a rail as you lean into turns. This is basic stuff and if you're doing these things consistently, you're ready to learn a few tricks. A good starter trick is the manual wheel, because it teaches you how to elevate the nose and tail of the board.
Step 1
Move forward at medium speed. The ball of your front foot should be slightly back from the nose and in the center of the board. Your back foot should be flat on the board and in front of the lip at the tail.
Step 2
Bend slightly at the knees and slide your back foot to the lip, but not over. Push with your back foot enough to elevate the nose, but not enough to drag the tail on the ground. Use knee flex and light pressure with your front foot to keep the board at this angle.
Step 3
Shift your weight forward, push the nose down with your front foot and relax pressure with your back foot. Ride flat for a few seconds. Slide your front foot to the lip at the nose and push. Flex your back knee and allow the tail to elevate.
Step 4
Practice until you can elevate and drop the nose with minimal effort. Push the nose down until the wheels touch, then let it back up and maintain control. Try to keep it elevated in one position for several seconds.
Tips and Warnings
- Practice elevating the nose and tail while the board is not moving. Slower speeds are best for learning tricks.
- Wear protective gear and a helmet when riding and practicing tricks.
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