Have you ever looked at skateboarders gliding smoothly through streets and parks, pulling off cool tricks with what seems like little effort, and wondered how they do it? Maybe you’ve just picked up your first skateboard and you’re eager to master some beginner tricks to get you started on your skateboarding journey. If so, you’re in the right place.
There’s something incredibly rewarding about learning and perfecting new tricks on a skateboard. It’s a mix of physical skill, timing, and mental focus, which is why it captivates so many people around the world. Whether you’re aiming to skate competitively or simply for fun, getting the basics down is crucial. So, let’s talk about what these beginner tricks are and how you can get started on them effectively.
Understanding the Basics of Skateboarding
Before jumping into tricks, it’s essential to understand some fundamental aspects of skateboarding. This foundation will not only help you perform tricks better but also ensure your safety while you’re learning.
The Gear You Need
Start by having the right skateboard gear. Your setup should be comfortable and suitable for your style and body. A standard skateboard consists of a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. Make sure all components are in good condition and that the board suits your size and skating style. Besides the board, having protective gear like a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads is also important, especially when you’re just beginning.
Finding Your Stance
Your stance is simply how you stand on the board. Are you a regular foot (left foot forward) or goofy foot (right foot forward)? Finding your stance is the first step in gaining balance and control over the skateboard. Practice rolling around with both stances to see which feels more natural to you. Once you find your comfortable stance, practice standing on the board and pushing off to move around.
Balancing Act
Balance is at the heart of skateboarding and is crucial for performing any trick. Spend time just riding your skateboard, getting comfortable with balancing, and gradually increase the speed as you gain confidence. You can practice on a flat surface, rolling back and forth, and eventually down slight inclines.
Starting with Beginner Tricks
After getting comfortable with riding and balancing, you’re ready to try out some beginner tricks. These tricks lay the foundation for more complex moves and will boost your confidence as you progress.
The Ollie
The ollie is often one of the first tricks beginners learn because it’s fundamental to many other tricks. It’s a jump that gets both you and your skateboard off the ground. To perform an ollie, crouch down slightly, then snap the tail of your board against the ground while jumping up. Slide your front foot forward to level the board in mid-air. It might take a few tries to get the movement right, but practice is key.
The Shuvit
The shuvit is another trick that doesn’t involve jumping but instead involves spinning the board 180 degrees under your feet while you stay in place. Begin by pushing the tail down with your back foot while nudging your front foot slightly forward, allowing the board to spin. You’ll need to use a bit of force to get the spin just right, and practice staying balanced as the board moves beneath you.
Manual
A manual is similar to a wheelie on a bicycle. You balance on your back wheels while keeping your front wheels off the ground. This trick teaches you balance and gives you greater control of the board. Start slowly and work on holding the manual for longer distances as you improve.
Kickturn
The kickturn is an essential transition trick used to change directions quickly. While rolling slowly, press down on the tail of the board and pivot your front wheels to turn around. Practice both clockwise and counterclockwise turns to become proficient at maneuvering your board effortlessly.
Tic-Tac
The tic-tac is another valuable move for shifting your weight and changing directions. By quickly shifting your body weight and applying pressure on alternate sides of the boards, you can zig-zag or gain productive momentum without pushing. It strengthens your ability to control your board with subtle movements.
Practicing Regularly and Overcoming Challenges
Skateboarding, like any sport, requires dedication and consistent practice. The key to getting better at tricks is to practice regularly and be patient. Understand that falling is part of the learning process, but it’s through these experiences that you improve.
Setting a Routine
A regular practice routine is beneficial. Set aside specific times and days for practice. Whether you’re skating in a local park or just on the driveway, having regular sessions helps retain and build on your skills. Mix up your sessions by including practicing newly learned tricks, perfecting ones you already know, and just casual skating.
Staying Positive
The learning curve can sometimes seem steep, but staying positive is crucial. Celebrate small achievements and progress. If one trick feels too challenging, take a break or move on to another. Often, revisiting a trick after a break gives you a fresh perspective, allowing you to tackle it more effectively.
Seeking Guidance
Learning from more experienced skateboarders can vastly improve your skills. Don’t hesitate to ask advice from friends or local skaters. Many times, people are willing to share tips or even demonstrate tricks in person, which can be incredibly helpful. Watching online tutorials can also provide insights into techniques you might not have considered.
Safety First
Learning tricks inevitably brings about the risk of spills and falls. Staying safe should be your number one priority at all times.
Protective Gear
Ensure that you always wear your helmet and protective pads. Investing in good-quality safety gear can minimize injuries and give you the courage to attempt new tricks without the fear of significant harm.
Knowing Your Limits
Understand and respect your current level. While adding a bit of challenge keeps the sport exciting, pushing too hard too fast can lead to unnecessary injuries. If something feels significantly beyond your current skillset, give it time and more practice on foundational tricks.
Expanding Your Trick Repertoire
Once you’ve mastered these beginner skills and tricks, you’re on your way to expanding your repertoire. With a solid foundation, you can move on to more intermediate tricks.
Variations and Combinations
Try variations of the tricks you’ve learned. For instance, work on the frontside and backside ollies. Combine the ollie with a 180-degree turn or add a shuvit into the mix. Mixing tricks increases not only complexity but also flair and style.
Intermediate Tricks
Gradually, intermediate tricks like the kickflip or heelflip will become attainable. These require more practice and practice patience, as the mechanics can take time to perfect. But with determination, you’ll see improvement over time.
Joining the Skateboarding Community
Skateboarding is not just about solo practice; it’s also about community. Interacting and learning from other enthusiasts enriches your journey.
Local Skate Parks
Take advantage of local skate parks. They’re great places to practice and meet other skateboarders. Engaging with people of similar interests can provide support, friendship, and motivation, which are invaluable for your skateboarding journey.
Online Communities
Numerous online platforms allow for skaters around the globe to connect. Sharing your progress, watching others, and discussing tricks online can offer fresh perspectives and increase your skating knowledge.
Keeping up the Momentum
To sustain interest and passion for skateboarding, seek continuous improvement and appreciate the journey rather than just the destination.
Setting Goals
Set realistic, achievable goals for yourself. Whether it’s landing a new trick or participating in a skating event, having goals keeps you focused and driven.
Continual Learning
The skateboarding world is continuously evolving with new tricks and techniques. Stay updated and continuously challenge yourself by learning and trying new moves off the board as well.
Keeping all these factors in mind, you are well on your way to becoming a proficient skateboarder. Embrace the journey, practice safely, and celebrate each milestone as you progress in mastering the art of skateboarding.