1. Using Manual Wheelchairs for Wheelchair Skateboarding
Your experience with wheelchair skateboarding should begin with a manual chair. Many wheelchair skateboarders, even those with plenty of experience, opt for manual chairs due to their lightweight materials. You also need to practice braking with your hands in high-speed situations before you try tricks and jumps.
A manual wheelchair should be equipped with safety measures prior to hitting the first ramp. Your attire should include gloves and a bicycle helmet to prepare for plenty of errors during initial runs. A rubber bumper on the front section of the chair dampens the blow if you cannot jump the curb or get momentum for an upcoming ramp.
The key factor in using manual wheelchairs for skateboarding is gaining momentum. You can build speed by rocking your wheelchair back and forth when using a half-pipe or ramp. A significant distance between your chair and the first jump gives you time to pump your arms and gain speed.
2. Breaking Boundaries with Electric Wheelchair Skateboarding
Electric wheelchairs are used occasionally by disabled skateboarders looking for additional power. You need to check an electric wheelchair's battery levels, wheel strength and suspension before trying flips and rail grinds. The battery on the wheelchair should be full to account for extra strain during skateboarding tricks. Your wheels have to be inflated correctly to deal with the substantial jolt after landing a trick. A good way to prevent mechanical damage and stay safe while using an electric wheelchair is adding a stronger suspension before taking on new challenges. The significant weight difference between electric and manual wheelchairs makes a good suspension system necessary to avoid major damage.
3. Practicing Tricks in Wheelchair Skateboarding
The best way to start performing tricks with wheelchair skateboards is by practicing small jumps in a garage or gym. You can build ramps with two planks of wood that can range in size from 6 to 18 inches tall. These ramps help increase your comfort level with leaving the ground, landing on hard surfaces and potentially falling out of your chair.
One of the rarest tricks performed in wheelchair skateboarding is the backward flip. This flip requires superb body control, a well-timed jump and a willingness to risk your body. Your attempt to perform the back flip should begin at a skating facility with a foam pit and ramp designed for traditional skateboarders. The back flip is performed by gaining speed on the ramp, pushing backward against the chair seat and keeping extremities close to the chair.
Member Comments