If there’s one thing we skaters know, it’s that concrete isn’t forgiving— and yes, even the pros get their fair share of bruises. But have you ever wondered how pro skaters seem unscathed even after executing mind-blowing tricks in gravity-defying places? While pain is just another part of the ride, but there’s a a lot of precautionary measure you can adopt to lessen the risk of injury. It all boils down to expertise, patience, and protective gear. So, let’s dive deep into the world of skateboarding and uncover how these pros endure breathtaking falls and bounce back from them.
How do pro skaters shrug off impacts?
For real, it’s not magic but a mix of mastering skills, building strength, and being mindful of protective gear. Each of these is an essential aspect, and skipping even one might leave you nursing a broken bone or two.
1. Building strength with fitness regimes
Just in case you thought skateboarding was all play and no sweat, hold up a second! Skaters are real athletes who know their fitness routines count. Regular workouts help pro skaters build endurance and strength, making them more resilient against the chance of injuries. Core strength and flexibility play a massive part in helping skaters ride out a harsh landing and bounce back without much damage.
2. Protective gear matters—not an option but, rather, a requirement!
Now, here’s something we’ve all skipped at some point, regretting seconds later after an unfortunate bail or two. Guys, meet your new best buddies: the Knee pads, helmets, the works – they are all here to protect you from eating concrete during a gnarly bail.
Remember, as kids, how our parents would nag us about it? They had a point! Safety isn’t something you compromise in the skateboarding world. Now, the choice of wearing gear might be a matter of personal preference for some street skaters, but for vert and park skaters, it’s pretty much life-saving.
3. Falling off a skateboard safely
We all know the drill: you skate, you fall, you get up, and you do it all over again. But here’s the real deal—how you hit the ground can make or break your sesh. We’re not just talking about getting back on the board but doing it without breaking anything. Trust me, there’s an art to taking those spills, and mastering it can save you a world of pain.
First up, the “run out.” It’s like when you’re about to bail on a trick, and instead of eating concrete, you turn that momentum into a few quick steps, turning a spill into a stride. With time and a few more falls, you’ll get the hang of it, promise. Now, here’s the tricky part: when you’re about to faceplant, every bone in your body’s gonna wanna catch you with your hands.
Don’t! That’s a one-way ticket to Snap City, population: your wrists. Instead, aim for that “tuck and roll” move. Go down and aim to roll on your shoulder or back, spreading out that impact. Keep it loose, let the fall flow, and you’re less likely to break something.
So, what’s the worst that can happen?
Injuries. Yes, they do happen, and I’m not sugar-coating that fact. From minor bruises to serious common skateboarding injuries like fractures, skaters do go through their share of injuries. However, it’s all about how they bounce back, continue doing what they love, and how they use it as a learning curve for their future rides.
Being a skateboarding enthusiast, I’ve got to say that seeing these pros skate safely has had a kinetic effect on me. I’m learning that having fun and staying safe on the board are two tracks on the same record. Watching them ride has taught me that the right blend of skill, strength, and responsibility leads to a safer and more enjoyable skateboarding experience.
Safety might be a requirement, but it doesn’t have to be a chore. Learning to blend it into your skate experience is the real challenge, and it’s a challenge worth accepting.
There you have it, some first-hand account of my experience and insights. Safe skating is not an impossible dream, it’s achievable, and all it takes is a pinch of awareness and a dash of responsibility, or something like that. Stay safe and shred on!
Dos and don’ts of skateboarding safely
Let’s take a peek at some of the core dos and don’ts when it comes to skateboarding safely. These are some essential pointers that I’ve picked up during my learning journey, and I’ve found them to be incredibly useful.
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Start slow and master basic skills | Don’t try advanced tricks too soon |
| Regularly train for strength and flexibility | Don’t skimp on your workout routine |
| Always wear your safety gear | Don’t disrespect the importance of protective gear |
| Plan your course before a ride | Don’t skate random terrains without proper evaluation |
| Be extra cautious around traffic | Don’t ignore traffic rules and signals |
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Along your journey of absorbing everything there is to skateboarding and staying safe, there might be questions popping up in your mind right about now. It’s a normal part of learning something new, and that’s why I’ve gathered some common questions and answered them for you. Let’s delve into some of the untackled aspects and shed some light on those lingering queries.
Do pro skaters take safety training or courses?
Yes, absolutely! Pro skaters often engage in safety training programs that assist them in understanding and managing the risks associated with skateboarding. Some also participate in first aid training, which equips them to handle any unforeseen situations on the ramps or the streets.
Is it mandatory for pro skaters to wear protective gear for all skateboarding routines?
This depends largely on context and personal choice, mate. For vert and park skating, protective gear tends to be as essential as your board. In street skating, this is more of a personal choice. Some skaters prefer a sense of freedom and believe protective gear impedes their performance, while others are staunch advocates of safety gear even on the streets. However, even the skaters who hate wearing equipment recognize its importance in certain situations.
Why does the skateboarding community frown upon some safety practices?
Sometimes it’s all about the culture. There are certain misunderstandings and stigmas in the skateboarding world where prioritizing safety is seen as a sign of fear or uncoolness. However, pro skaters and experienced skateboarding enthusiasts know that safety is a key to long-term skating. So, despite some negativity, never compromise on safety.
What do I do if I get seriously hurt while skateboarding?
First and foremost, it’s important not to panic. Trying to stand up immediately could aggravate the injuries. Seek medical assistance right away. Report the incident to your local skateboarding community or park authorities; they can often provide prompt help. Learning some basic first aid can also be a killer life hack.
Final thoughts
Throughout this thrilling ride, we’ve examined the ins and outs of staying safe while skateboarding. In this balancing act between safety and thrill, remember that being safe is not about saying no to excitement but about saying yes to more vert and street boarding experiences! It’s about keeping the wheels spinning and the heart pumping with joy. Remember that feeling we all had at Love Park? That’s what it’s all about. Maintain that stoke, stay safe, and shred on!
So, are you ready to try these safety tips on your next ride? And did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below. I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboarding safely. Thanks for reading, and keep your wheels rolling!
Key takeaways
This article covered how pro skaters don’t get hurt. Here are some key takeaways:
- Mastering skills comes first, with a graduation from the simple to the complex.
- Regular fitness regimes are an integral part of skateboarding, building strength and endurance.
- Protective gear could make the difference between a close call and a serious injury.
- Staying safe ensures a long career in skateboarding and fewer dangerous bails.
- Prioritizing safety might seem uncool, but is endorsed by most professional skateboarders.
- Safety training and first aid knowledge come in handy for pro skaters.
