1. Surfers on Land
Skateboarding began in earnest in the 1950s when surfers got the crazy idea to practice on land. Prior to that moment, the closest thing on the street was more like a scooter. By attaching roller skates to the bottom of a piece of plywood, they could continue with their maneuvers and train their bodies for the next big wave. By the 1960s, surfboard inspired skateboard companies emerged and the rage began. Skateboard maker and publisher of "Surf World," Larry Stevenson, is credited with developing the craze into a legitimate sport with his design innovations. More than 50 million skateboards were sold over a three-year period. The first skateboard competition took place in California in 1963.
2. Growing Sport
Skateboarders soon got bored with the rides and the industry hit a slump. Many people thought the skateboard was a passing fad. However, some diehard fans kept at it and created more aerodynamic boards that could be used for tricks and turns. With the invention of urethane wheels, the boards became lighter and even more maneuverable. Skate parks opened around the world to support this renewed interest in skateboarding. However, many skaters had accidents, so the new parks were forced to close down.
3. Skateboarding in the Mainstream
Skateboarding is now a recognized sport, and no longer the arena of urban and beach dropouts lost in an underground culture. It became mainstream when the sport was included in the 1997 Winter X Games as a crossover entry. Media coverage and superstars emerged and the public embraced the sport. This media interest paved the way for sponsors. Today, a whole sideline industry of clothes and paraphernalia has grown out of the sport's popularity.
4. Best Left to the Young
Anyone can ride a skateboard, but it is primarily a sport best left to the young, who can heal easily from broken bones. It is a very risky sport. While skateboards are encouraged to wear protective gear such as helmets and knee and elbow pads, this gear cannot prevent the major injuries that can occur from falling at high speeds on pavement.
5. For Love or Money
Skateboarders often cross-train by surfing and snow skiing, but for the most part, no common set of training programs are followed by skaters, both pro and amateur. Skaters skate because they love it and become fit for competitions by skating more. Local skateboard competitions offer kids trophies and bragging rights, while the pros can earn up to $10,000 a month by competing. The superstars of skating can earn salaries from sponsors, just like any other pro sport.
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