Hello, thrill-seekers!
Do you think skateboarding is only for the young? Think again!
Skateboarding is a sport anyone can enjoy at any age, offering fantastic physical and mental benefits.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or rediscovering the joy of riding, this guide is for you.
In this article, we show you how to start skateboarding as an adult, the benefits you can gain, and most importantly, how to stay safe while having fun.
Content
- 1 Why learn Skateboarding as an adult?
- 2 Starting safely: Skateboarding basics
- 3 Must-know beginner tricks
- 4 Finding the perfect skate spot
- 5 Choosing the right skateboard and shoes
- 6 Progression: From beginner to pro
- 7 Skateboarding styles: Find your path
- 8 Safety tips: Handling falls and injuries
- 9 Ready for your skateboarding adventure?
- 10 FAQ: Skateboarding for adults
Why learn Skateboarding as an adult?
Physical benefits
Skateboarding is a full-body workout.
It engages multiple muscle groups, improves coordination, and helps you stay fit.
Each movement works your legs, core, and even arms for balance.
Plus, it’s a great cardio workout that doesn’t feel like one!
Mental benefits
Skating is also a fantastic way to relax and clear your mind.
Whether you’re cruising at the skatepark or riding on a quiet path, the focus required for tricks lets you disconnect from everyday stress.
It’s also a powerful confidence booster as you progress and master new moves.
Starting safely: Skateboarding basics
1. Choose the right gear
Before you hop on your board, choosing the right gear is crucial.
- Skateboard: Opt for a board suited to your size and style.
If you’re a beginner, go for a wider, more stable deck. - Protective gear: Never skimp on safety.
A good helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards will prevent most injuries.
2. Learn the basic techniques
- Position and balance: Before you even start rolling, get your foot placement right.
The standard stance has your front foot angled forward and your back foot perpendicular to the board.
Decide if you prefer the “regular” stance (left foot forward) or “goofy” (right foot forward). - Pushing and rolling: To move, use your back foot to push while keeping your front foot on the board.
Bend your knees slightly for better balance. - Stopping safely: The easiest way to stop is foot braking, where you gently place your back foot on the ground.
You can also learn to “powerslide,” which involves sliding the wheels to slow down.
Must-know beginner tricks
1. The Ollie
The Ollie is a fundamental trick.
It involves jumping with the board by striking the tail and sliding your front foot forward to level it out in midair.
2. The Shuvit
This beginner-friendly trick involves spinning the board 180 degrees under your feet without lifting off the ground.
3. The Kickflip
More advanced, the kickflip requires you to flip the board under your feet while airborne by kicking the side of the board with your front foot.
Finding the perfect skate spot
– Skatepark vs. street
For beginners, skateparks are ideal because they offer smooth surfaces and beginner-friendly obstacles.
If you prefer street skating, ensure the area is safe, with no heavy traffic or pedestrians.
– Rules to follow
Always respect other skaters and pedestrians.
In a skatepark, wait your turn to use the ramps and be aware of your surroundings.
On the street, obey traffic rules for your safety and others.
Choosing the right skateboard and shoes
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Your skateboard
Your board should match your skate style and skill level.
For beginners, opt for a wider, stable deck.
Top brands like Santa Cruz, Element, and Plan B offer excellent beginner options:
– Santa Cruz skateboards (ad): Santa Cruz has been a prominent skateboard brand for decades, known for its quality decks and a wide range of models suitable for various styles of skateboarding.
– Element skateboards (ad): Element is another well-respected brand in the skateboarding world.
They offer a variety of skateboard decks, complete skate boards, and accessories, catering to both beginners and experienced skaters.
– Plan B skateboards (ad): Plan B is known for producing durable and high-quality skateboards.
They have a strong presence in the skateboarding community and offer a range of deck shapes and sizes.
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Skate shoes
Skate shoes are crucial for comfort, grip, and foot protection during tricks. Brands like Adidas, Nike SB, and New Balance provide top-quality options.
Adidas skate shoes
– Adidas 3MC skate shoes (ad): These are known for their clean and simple design, excellent board feel, and lightweight construction.
They’re a versatile choice for various styles of skateboarding.
– Adidas Busenitz skate shoes (ad): Designed in collaboration with professional skateboarder Dennis Busenitz, these shoes are known for their exceptional durability, impact protection, and precise board control.
They are a top choice for those who enjoy technical and street skating.
Nike skate shoes
– Nike SB Zoom Janoski (ad): The Janoski is a classic and versatile option designed in collaboration with professional skateboarder Stefan Janoski.
It’s known for its clean, low-profile design and excellent board feel.
– Nike SB Nyjah Free 2 (ad): Designed in collaboration with professional skateboarder Nyjah Huston, these shoes are known for their lightweight design, excellent board feel, and durability.
They are a popular choice for technical street skating.
New Balance skate shoes
– New Balance Numeric 1010 (ad): The Numeric 1010 is known for its durable construction and cushioning, making it a reliable choice for skateboarding.
– New Balance Numeric 440 (ad): The Numeric 440 offers a blend of style and functionality, with good durability and impact protection.
Progression: From beginner to pro
Mastering advanced tricks
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can move on to advanced tricks like heelflips, grinds, and slides.
Remember, practice and persistence are key!
Find intermediate tricks here
Refining your style
Skateboarding is more than just tricks—it’s an art form.
Over time, you’ll develop your unique style, whether you’re into street skating or ramps. Let your creativity flow!
Skateboarding styles: Find your path
– Street skating: Conquer the urban jungle
Street skating is all about navigating urban environments.
Skaters use everything from stairs to benches as their playground.
– Vert skating: Defy gravity on ramps
Vert skating focuses on aerial tricks on ramps and halfpipes.
This style involves launching into the air and performing tricks before landing back on the ramp.
– Freestyle: Dance on your board
Freestyle skateboarding is a blend of flat-ground tricks, footwork, and dance-like moves.
It’s all about creativity and technical skill.
– Longboarding: Cruise the open road
Longboarding offers a more relaxed skate experience.
It’s perfect for cruising, carving, and downhill riding, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a smooth, laid-back style of skating.
Safety tips: Handling falls and injuries
Dealing with falls
Falls are inevitable in skateboarding.
Always wear protective gear and avoid pushing your limits to prevent serious injuries.
If you fall, take time to recover before getting back on the board.
Overcoming fear
Starting skateboarding as an adult can be intimidating.
The key is to go at your own pace and conquer your fears gradually.
Set realistic goals and progress step by step.
Ready for your skateboarding adventure?
It’s never too late to learn skateboarding.
Whether you’re a beginner or returning to the sport after a break, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the physical and mental benefits.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your board, gear up, and hit the streets or the skatepark!
FAQ: Skateboarding for adults
Is it too late to learn skateboarding at 30 or older?
No, it’s never too late! Many adults take up skateboarding for its physical and mental benefits. The key is to progress at your own pace and not compare yourself to younger skaters.
How long does it take to master the basics?
It depends on how often you practice and how quickly you pick up new techniques. On average, an adult beginner can learn the basics like balance and stopping in a few weeks with 2-3 sessions per week.
What’s the best time to skateboard as an adult?
Skate during early mornings or late afternoons when parks are less crowded. This offers a quieter and cooler environment for learning.
Can skateboarding help with weight loss?
Yes, skateboarding is a great cardio workout that burns calories while building muscle. Depending on intensity, you can burn 300-500 calories per hour.
Is longboarding a better option for adults?
Yes, longboarding offers a smoother and easier experience, perfect for adults who want to focus on cruising rather than technical tricks. It’s more stable and great for long-distance rides.