How to Get on Your Board for the First Time

Getting on your skateboard for older beginners.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Skateboard
• Buddy
• Safety gear

1. If you're not a kid, say older than 18 years old, and it's your first time skateboarding, the best way to approach your board is with cautious optimism. Smile, though, cause it’s going to be a blast.

2. Get in full regalia—-helmet, knee, elbow and wrist pads. Heck, there's even butt pads.

3. Round up a friend who can help you get on your board. It doesn't matter what foot you put in front or back, it's a matter of comfort and what feels natural. You would be "goofy" if your right foot is in front and "regular" if your left foot is in front.

4. Once you're on, have your friend hold your hands and roll you back and forth, so you get the feel of being a four-wheeler.

5. When you're ready to do it alone, you can push off with your front foot or your back foot. Many argue that it's best to push off with your back foot but there are plenty of skaters who push off with their front foot—this is called Mongo. Again, it's a matter of preference and it's the topic of much debate in the skateboarding world.

6. Keep your knees slightly bent when pushing off. If you want to turn, lean into the turn.

7. Practice, practice, practice.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear all your saftey gear.
• Learn the method of falling correctly.
• Watch skaters at the skatepark or on a video.
• To turn easier, loosen the nut on your trucks.
• When starting out, you'll want your trucks somewhat tight so you're not as wobbly.

[grouch]

on 12/9/2007 Sounds like a walk in the park once you get the hang of it. Thanks for the great information.