Do you ever ask yourself, “How do I take my skateboarding skills to the next level?” Well, let me dispel some myths here: being a great skateboarder isn’t about the girls or the glory. It’s about the grind. Quite literally. I’m stoked to share with you some unvarnished truth directly from the trenches of my skateboarding journey. Together, we’ll journey through the dos and don’ts as beginner skaters and provide some much-needed honest skateboarding advice. Strap on those helmets ’cause we’re about to dive in!
What’s the appeal of skateboarding?
First, let’s clear the air about one prevalent misconception: skateboarding is not a guaranteed ticket to impress the ladies. Crushing your dreams? I know, but it’s the hard truth. Skateboarding, like driving a fancy car or being jacked, might sound like the ultimate magnet, but it’s more of a personal validation than a means to an end.
The number of admirers you attract correlates more with your charisma than whether you skateboard. These things might make you feel more attractive, but you’ll probably find more dudes complimenting your sick skate tricks than the ladies.
The real joy in skateboarding lies in embracing the process, not in seeking external validation. So, if you’re looking to get into skateboarding just because you think it’ll win over some hearts, I’m here to tell you it doesn’t really work like that.
What’s the best time for beginners to hit the skate park?
Moving on to my next piece of advice, as a beginner, you might want to avoid peak skate park hours. I’ve mentioned this before, but the repetition is worth it because this one’s pretty much a golden rule that can make or break your learning experience.
“During rush hour, a skate park can be a hectic place, making it less efficient for learning.”
During rush hour, a skate park can be a hectic place, making it less efficient for learning. You could spend an hour trying to squeeze in 10 minutes of skate time, and that’s just not a solid choice. But hey, if you’re skating in a vast, open park in the middle of nowhere, that’s another story.
Early hours or times when the park is less crowded are ideal for practice. You’ll get more time to yourself and fewer chances of accidentally snaking someone and causing a pile-up. But remember, every cloud has a silver lining. Rush hour can also be a great time for chilling by the sidelines and watching some really insane skateboarding world records unfold right in front of your eyes.
Is being a novice skater at a skate park intimidating?
Let’s address the elephant in the room while we’re on the topic of new skaters. Being a rookie at a skate park can feel daunting, with thoughts of people watching and judging your moves. But swipe those fears away because the skateboarding community isn’t about excluding anyone who can’t pull off a trick out of a grind off the bat.
More often than not, skaters are a friendly, respectful tribe. You’re more likely to receive tips and encouragement than negative vibes. However, if you still feel nervous, try hitting the park in the morning when it’s usually empty. Practicing your skills without worrying about the outside world is a peaceful time.
When should you start learning tricks on your skateboard?
Last but not least, let’s talk priority. Jumping straight to kickflips or triple flips might be tempting, but let’s slow down. Mastering the basics and getting comfortable turning, pushing, and stopping on your skateboard should be your primary focus.
Skateboarding is about more than just tricks. It’s about gaining confidence and having fun on your board. So, when you first get your board, invest time in learning these fundamentals and exploring your skating style. Transporting around on your board, cruising through streets and parks, essentially using it as an extension of yourself, that’s when you’ll truly feel the stoke of skateboarding.
So, what’s my take?
As someone still learning the ropes, my perspective might differ from that of a seasoned pro, but in my opinion, skateboarding is about learning and growing at your own pace. You may fall and experience frustration, but with every stumble, you’re one step closer to nailing that flawless run at your local skate spot.
“In skateboarding, it’s not about the destination – it’s about embracing the journey, the falls, the learning and the sheer joy of riding.”
It has less to do with impressing others and more about enjoying the ride. And when you inevitably nail that trick you’ve been working on, fellow skaters’ kudos will be far more rewarding than any non-skater’s admiration.
Dos and don’ts of skateboarding
Every activity has its unwritten rules. Definitely, skateboarding has some too. Here is a reference table to guide you through your skateboarding journey.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Prioritize comfort on your board | Rush into learning complex tricks |
| Tap into the skate community’s supportive vibe | Skate with the sole aim of impressing others |
| Practice during off-peak hours for maximum focus time | Snake somebody at the skate park |
| Embrace the joy of learning new tricks | Try to dominate crowded skate park sessions |
| Respect other skaters’ space | Be intimidated by more experienced skaters |
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Everyone has questions when diving into a new hobby, and skateboarding is no different. Here are some commonly asked questions you might have had spinning in your mind.
What equipment do I need to start skateboarding?
You need a skateboard and safety gear to get your wheels rolling on the pavement. Invest in a good-quality skateboard tailored to your preference between the street, park, or vert skating. Safety gear, including a helmet, knee, and elbow pads, is essential to protect you during falls. Regular maintenance of your skateboard is also crucial. Check out this guide on skateboard maintenance to keep your board in top shape.
Are there any unwritten rules of skateboarding?
Absolutely! These include respecting others’ space at the skate park, not snaking (cutting off another skater’s path), and practicing during off-peak hours as a beginner. In-depth information about etiquette can be found in our article on the Known Rules of Skateboarding.
How soon can I start attempting tricks?
Your priority should be mastering the basics, such as pushing, turning, and stopping. Once you’re comfortable, you can slowly start attempting tricks. Check out some of the best tricks in skateboarding to start your journey systematically. Remember, every skater learns at their own pace, so never rush yourself.
Do skaters look down on electric skateboards?
Some skaters have reservations about electric skateboards as they arguably rob the essence of the traditional sport. Skateboarding is as much about the ride and tricks as it is about pushing and controlling the board. Electric skateboards seem to miss out on this part of the charm to some. Read our article on skaters’ thoughts on electric skateboards for more views.
Final thoughts
As we wrap up this exhilarating ride through skateboarding do’s and don’ts, I hope you’re stoked to shred the streets with fresh confidence. And remember, the heart and soul of skateboarding isn’t about impressing others; it’s about a love of the ride, the freedom, and the community spirit this sick world of skateboarding offers. Take a look at the skateboard culture and community for more insights.
Did my ‘honest skateboarding advice’ strike a chord with you? I read and reply to every comment. Share if you found this article useful, and keep an eye on my blog for more tips and tricks on navigating the world of skateboarding. Stay rad, and keep skating!
Key takeaways
This article covered some honest skateboarding advice. Here are some key takeaways:
- Skateboarding isn’t an instant magnet for attraction. It’s more of a personal journey and validation.
- For beginners, practicing during non-peak hours helps improve efficiency.
- The skateboarding community is supportive and welcoming. Novices need not feel intimidated.
- Mastering the basics is more crucial than jumping straight into advanced tricks.
- Skateboarding is less about impressing others and more about enjoying the ride. You also need to know some appropriate skateboarding etiquette.
