Skateboarding is a fun and challenging activity that can improve your balance, coordination, and creativity. It’s enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. To get started, find a used board and some protective gear. There are plenty of online tutorials and skateparks where you can learn from others.
Skateboarding
as a hobby
Reviewed by:
When I skate, it’s like my brain is turned off; not thoughts, just feelings.
Valeria Figueroa
Helpful content to get started
The page is curated to inspire and help you get started with skateboarding as a hobby.
Overwhelmed? Play a random video or podcast to start getting familiar with skateboarding.
We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Always use your judgment. Refer to the listed resources for further research.
Videos
Short visual inspiration.
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Podcasts
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Skateboarding improves balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health, making it a fun way to stay active.
Terms
Basic lingo for orientation.
- Backside: Tricks with your back facing the obstacle.
- Deck: The board you stand on.
- Fakie: Rolling backward in your normal stance.
- Flatground: Flat surface for tricks.
- Frontside: Tricks with your front facing the obstacle.
- Grind: Sliding on an obstacle with the trucks or deck.
- Grip tape: The sandpaper-like surface on top of the deck for traction.
- Half-pipe/Vert ramp: A U-shaped ramp for vertical skating.
- Kickflip: Flipping the board with your foot while jumping.
- Ollie: A basic jump with the board.
- Session: A time spent skating together.
- Sketchy: A trick done poorly.
- Slam: A hard fall.
- Stance: Regular (left foot forward) or Goofy (right foot forward)
- Stoked: Excited about skateboarding.
- Truck: The metal parts that connect the wheels to the deck.
- Wheels: What allows you to roll!
Term Videos
First Steps
How to break the ice and make a start. One Aha! moment is all you need.
- Buy your first skateboard and protective gear.
- Follow basic how-tos.
- Visit a skate park near you, practice, watch, ask and learn.
First Steps Videos
Products
Essentials to have.
Product Demos
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How-Tos
Step-by-step tutorials.
How-To Videos
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Skateboarding communities are known for their inclusivity and camaraderie, providing a sense of belonging and support.
Books
Get read-y.
Articles
Further reading.
audio and Video Articles
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Websites
Go-tos for information.
Website Previews
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Movies & TV
Nothing like a good film or a show for inspiration.
Movie and TV Trailers
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Skateboarding made its debut as an Olympic sport at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, with 13-year-old Sky Brown becoming one of the youngest Olympic medalists ever after winning bronze in the women’s park skateboarding event.
FAQS
Get a clue.
Q: What kind of gear do I need to start skateboarding?
A: You’ll need a complete skateboard (deck, trucks, wheels, bearings), and protective gear (a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards).
Q: Where can I learn to skateboard?
A: Skate parks are a great place to practice, but you can also learn on flat ground or in a smooth open area.
Q: Is skateboarding hard to learn?
A: Skateboarding has a learning curve, but with practice and determination, you can develop your skills and confidence.
Q: What if I fall?
A: Falling is a natural part of skateboarding. Wear your protective gear and learn how to fall safely to minimize injuries.
Q: Am I too old to start skateboarding?
A: Not at all! Skateboarding is for everyone, regardless of age.
Q: Will skateboarding keep me in shape?
A: Yes! Skateboarding provides a great workout, improving your balance, coordination, and overall fitness.
Q: How do I find other skaters?
A: Look for skate parks or skate shops near you, or search online for skateboarding communities in your area.
Q: Is skateboarding dangerous?
A: Skateboarding can be risky, but wearing proper safety gear and practicing in safe environments can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
Q: Are there different types of skateboards, and which type is best for beginners?
A: Yes, there are several types of skateboards designed for different skating styles. For beginners, a complete street deck or cruiser board is recommended. Street decks are the classic skateboard shape you see most often, offering a good balance for learning tricks and maneuvers. Cruiser boards are great for comfortable cruising and commuting, with wider decks and softer wheels for a smoother ride.
FAQ Videos
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Apps
Smart start.
App Trailers
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Courses
Get smart.
Video courses and trailers
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Community & Near You
Get together.
Related Videos
Skateboarding can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a lifelong hobby.
Tips
Additional advice for beginners.
Video Tips
Skateboarding fosters creativity and self-expression, allowing individuals to develop their own unique style.
Additional Information
Hobby attributes.
| Attributes | Value |
|---|---|
| Activities | Competing, Exercising, Performing, Playing, Relaxing, Socializing |
| Fields | |
| Locations | |
| Participants | |
| Skills | Adaptability, Agility, Attention to Detail, Balance, Concentration, Core Stability, Creativity, Flexibility, Hand-eye Coordination, Innovation, Mindfulness, Motor Coordination, Perseverance, Physical Endurance, Problem Solving, Resilience, Risk-taking, Self-esteem |
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