How to Do the Basics of Skateboarding

Skateboarding looks easy, but usually isn't for the beginner, especially for adults. Some people have trouble even standing on a skateboard. Follow these easy steps to master the basics of skateboarding and kick push your way around your neighborhood.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Put your front foot somewhere near the nails on the front of the skateboard. If you want to ride "goofy" style, put your right foot forward. Ride the way that feels most comfortable to you.

2. Stand sideways on your skateboard if you want to do tricks. If you want to actually ride somewhere, point your riding toe forward and push off with your other foot.

3. Achieve your desired speed by pushing with your back foot and then place your back foot near the back nails or tail of the board. Ride like this until your skateboard starts to slow down and then if you want to speed up, push off the ground some more with your back foot.

4. Keep your knees slightly bent while riding a skateboard in order to maintain balance. Stop your skateboard by jumping off of it, pushing the back of the board down with your foot or dragging your free foot on the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• More expensive skateboards, purchased from a skateboard shop, are usually much easier to ride than cheap department store boards.
• When learning skateboarding, practice in area with little or no traffic.
• Braking with your back foot by pushing down on the board scratches the underneath of the board. It's common for skateboarders to brake this way, but it's best not to do it when trying out someone else's board.
• Wear protective pads before getting on a skateboard. Use elbow, wrist and knee pads and a helmet.

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