In skateboarding, a ramp is an inclined surface skaters ride on or use to launch themselves into the air. Flat ramps are used for executing long vertical jumps, while concave ramps are effective for performing multiple tricks. For example, a half-pipe is large ramp that looks like a pipe sliced down the middle, as its name suggests. Skaters roll back and forth across the pipe, using a combination of leg power and gravity to generate enough speed to launch themselves above the edges of the ramp.
Step 1
Choose a small ramp to start on if you are a beginner.
Step 2
Approach the bottom of the ramp at a speed that allows you to go part of the way up the ramp. Skateboarding up the incline helps you practice the body movements and weight transitions necessary for maintaining your balance.
Step 3
Turn your head at the peak of your upward movement and shift your body weight to glide back down the ramp. The goal is to get comfortable with transitioning from upward to downward movement. The better you get at transitioning, the better your balance will be when you head down the ramp at high speeds.
Step 4
Skateboard down the entire length of the incline once you have sufficiently practiced downhill gliding. Keep your speed as low as possible at first. Bend your legs to brace yourself and maintain your balance.
Step 5
Practice pumping your legs to increase your momentum as you ride down the ramp. Pumping consists of shifting your body weight by bending and extending your legs to increase your speed. Watch professional skaters to get an idea of how they use their body weight to generate speed, then practice it often to get used to the technique.
Step 6
Switch to larger ramps as your skills develop.
Tips and Warnings
- Note that fast speeds and high jumps make ramp skateboarding a dangerous activity. Wear quality safety equipment, such as a helmet, wrist guards and knee and elbow pads. If possible, use a ramp at a professionally built skate park. An added benefit of visiting a skate park is it gives you the opportunity to ask experienced skaters for advice and observe the techniques they use to ride ramps.
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