Snakeboards, also known as streetboards, look a little like a skateboard that has been sawed in half and stretched between a crossbar or a plank. If you can ride a skateboard, you'll find snakeboarding easier, but it still takes practice. The coordination required is different. Unlike skateboarding, you travel in a swerving snake-like path and can reach very high speeds on flat surfaces. Practice on a flat, clean surface. Many snakeboards are equipped with foot straps. These make it easier to control the board, but increase the chances of falling over.
Step 1
Put one foot on one end of the snakeboard at a 90-degree angle to the front so your toes point out to the side. Position your foot right in the center of the pad. Strap your foot in if your board has foot straps. Make it tight but comfortable.
Step 2
Step on to the other end of the board with your other foot and strap it in place. The front of the board is the end with your strongest leg.
Step 3
Point both feet inward at the same time, as if you were trying to make your toes touch. Point both feet outward. Don't let the board move off; just repeat the movement until you feel comfortable, according to Streetboarding.com.
Step 4
Swing your arms and turn your body slightly to the back of the snakeboard as your feet flip in together. Swing your arms in the opposite direction and turn your waist a little to the front as your feet move outward.
Step 5
Thrust your arms forward to start the board moving. Bring your feet in and out as practiced and swing your arms to keep balance. Allow your back foot to swing in a fraction later than the front foot. This will help build forward momentum.
Step 6
Move your feet faster to build up speed. Stop turning your feet and point the board in one direction to slow down gradually. Move your front foot right or left without twisting your rear foot to turn to either side.
Step 7
Pull your front foot to the right or left to make a sharp turn. Be careful not to pull too fast or you may tip and fall forward.
Tips and Warnings
- Remove the straps or pick a strapless board if you feel nervous riding while bound to the snakeboard. Don't expect to pick up snakeboarding immediately. Even for experienced surfers, snowboarders and skateboarders, snakeboarding takes a little time to master, according to the "Independent."
- Wear elbow pads, knee protectors and a strong helmet. You will fall off the snakeboard, particularly if you're learning with foot straps.
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