Tony Hawk, Ryan Sheckler and Chad Muska may make it look easy, but skateboarding is a skill that takes time and practice to learn. If you have your heart set on learning to skateboard, purchasing a beginner board and heading to your local skate park can give you a foundation on which to build your skills. By starting slow and small, and avoiding crazy tricks until you become better, you can make learning to skateboard an enjoyable experience.
Step 1
Purchase your first skateboard. You can't learn to skateboard without the board, but as a beginner, you should avoid boards that you build yourself. Since you're only starting, you don't need bells and whistles that a professional may use. Just look for a board with 7.5- to 8-inch width, an effective grip-tape surface on top and smooth wheels on the trucks. The size of the board you use depends on the size of your feet, says Skateboard UK.
Step 2
Suit up and wear the proper gear when you attempt to skateboard. Before you ever step on your board, you should have knee pads, elbow pads and a helmet. The proper protection while skateboarding is standard in the industry, so you don't have to worry about being the only skater wearing full pads and a helmet at the skate park.
Step 3
Visit a skate park in your area. Bring along your skateboard and pads if you wish, but don't attempt to skate while you're there. Simply observe some of the local skateboarders as they make their way through the park. You can observe the general motions used for skating, along with some of the tricks you can try once you become a more proficient skater. Most skate parks have half-pipes, inclines and rails for skaters to practice their skills.
Step 4
Practice your first movements on the skateboard. As Planet Green points out, the motion for skateboarding is similar to walking. Look for a flat, smooth surface on which to begin practicing. Place your dominant foot on the deck of the skateboard, and then kick your other foot out and push it back, propelling you forward on the board. When you build up speed, place your kick foot on the deck and coast.
Step 5
Spend time learning how to direct your body and brake while on the board. These are basics you must learn before you attempt any tricks. You can direct your skateboard by leaning to the left or right while coasting, or pushing your foot to turn you while you propel yourself. To brake, hop off the board, or slowly drag your nondominant foot along the pavement. Once you feel comfortable skating, you can spend time with friends or at the skate park testing new tricks and honing your skills.
Things You'll Need
- Skateboard
- Knee pads
- Elbow pads
- Helmet
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