Skateboarding is much more than just a sport; it’s an art that requires talent, patience, and courage. But, like any art form, it takes time to master. If you’re a beginner skateboarder, you might be wondering what tricks you should start with. There are a lot of different skateboarding tricks to try, but some are more beginner-friendly than others.
In this article, we’ll delve into the best skateboarding tricks for beginners.
Why is skateboarding good for beginners?
Skateboarding is a great way to get active and build up stamina, as well as enhance balance, coordination, and reflexes. As a beginner, skateboarding provides an outlet to develop confidence, resilience, and perseverance. Plus, it’s a fun way to connect with like-minded individuals and explore your creative side!
What are the basic moves and beginner tricks to start with?
One of the best places to start is with the basic moves on a skateboard. These include moving forward, stopping, turning, and basic maneuvers like kick-turns, carves, and pumping. Once you feel comfortable with the basic movements, you can start practicing beginner tricks, such as:
1. Ollies
The ollie is the foundation of most skateboard tricks, and it’s relatively easy to learn. It involves popping the tail of the board down to jump into the air, then sliding your front foot forward to level out the board before landing. Start with small jumps and gradually work your way up to higher ollies.
2. Kickflips
A kickflip is a bit more advanced than the ollie and requires a bit more finesse. It involves flipping the board with your feet while jumping in the air. Practice jumping, flipping, and catching the board with one foot at a time, then work up to landing both feet on the board.
3. 180s
A 180 is where you spin the board halfway around while jumping in the air. It’s a fun and simple trick to learn and will help you work on your balance and control. Practice by turning your shoulders and hips in the direction you want to spin, then jumping and turning the board with your feet.
4. Manuals
Manuals involve balancing on the back wheels of the board while rolling forward. It’s essentially a very long wheelie, and it’s a great way to work on balance and control on a skateboard. Start by balancing in place for a few seconds, then try rolling forward and see how far you can go.
How do you master balance and control on a skateboard?
Balance and control are essential skills for any skateboarder. The key to mastering them is to practice regularly and focus on the fundamentals. Here are some tips to help you develop your balance and control on a skateboard:
1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, with your toes pointing forward.
2. Bend your knees slightly to lower your center of gravity and improve balance.
3. Keep your weight over the middle of the board, and focus on shifting your weight as needed to turn, stop, or perform tricks.
4. Start with small, controlled movements and gradually work your way up to more complex maneuvers.
5. Practice regularly and stay patient with yourself.
How do you build up speed to perform tricks?
Speed is an essential ingredient for performing skateboard tricks, but it can be challenging to build up momentum when you’re starting. Here are some tips for getting up to speed:
1. Start on a small slope or incline to help you build momentum.
2. Use your back foot to push off the ground and propel yourself forward.
3. Practice pumping the board by transferring your weight from your front foot to your back foot, which will help you build up speed without pushing.
4. Try riding down ramps or hills to help you build up speed naturally.
How do you fall safely?
Falling is an inevitable part of skateboarding, but it doesn’t have to be dangerous if you take proper precautions. Here’s how to fall safely:
1. Wear the right gear, including a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads.
2. Keep your arms and legs bent to absorb impact.
3. Try to roll with the fall to dissipate the force and avoid injuring any one part of your body.
4. Avoid using your hands to break your fall, as this can cause wrist or arm injuries.
5. If you’re struggling to balance, jump off the board and land on your feet.
What are some intermediate tricks to work towards?
Once you’ve mastered the basic tricks and skills, it’s time to start leveling up and working towards more advanced maneuvers. Here are some intermediate tricks to try:
1. Boardslides
A boardslide is where you slide the board along a rail or ledge while balancing on the trucks. It’s a fun and challenging trick that requires coordination and balance.
2. 360 flips
A 360 flip is a more advanced version of the kickflip that involves spinning the board 360 degrees while flipping it. It’s a stylish trick that takes practice and patience to master.
3. Grinds
Grinding involves sliding your trucks along a rail or ledge while balancing on the board. It’s a versatile trick that can be performed in a variety of ways, such as frontside and backside grinds.
Conclusion
Skateboarding is an art form that takes time, patience, and practice to master. As a beginner, it’s essential to start with the basics and take things slow, focusing on developing balance, control, and stamina. With practice and perseverance, you can progress to more advanced tricks and maneuvers, paving the way to become a skilled skateboarder. Remember, safety always comes first, so make sure to wear the right gear and take precautions when practicing and performing tricks. Keep practicing, stay patient, and enjoy the ride!
