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.
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Skateboarding
as a hobby
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When I skate, it’s like my brain is turned off; not thoughts, just feelings.
Valeria Figueroa
Helpful content to get started
We curated content to familiarize you with skateboarding as a hobby and to inspire and help you get started.
We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Always use your judgment.
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Skateboarding improves balance, coordination, and cardiovascular health, making it a fun way to stay active.
Basic lingo for orientation.
- Stance: Regular (left foot forward) or Goofy (right foot forward)
- Deck: The board you stand on.
- Truck: The metal parts that connect the wheels to the deck.
- Wheels: What allows you to roll!
- Grip tape: The sandpaper-like surface on top of the deck for traction.
- Ollie: A basic jump with the board.
- Kickflip: Flipping the board with your foot while jumping.
- Grind: Sliding on an obstacle with the trucks or deck.
- Flatground: Flat surface for tricks.
- Half-pipe/Vert ramp: A U-shaped ramp for vertical skating.
- Frontside: Tricks with your front facing the obstacle.
- Backside: Tricks with your back facing the obstacle.
- Fakie: Rolling backward in your normal stance.
- Session: A time spent skating together.
- Slam: A hard fall.
- Stoked: Excited about skateboarding.
- Sketchy: A trick done poorly.
Term Videos
How to break the ice and make a start.
- Buy your first skateboard and protective gear.
- Follow basic how-tos.
- Visit a skate park near you, practice, watch, ask and learn.
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Skateboarding communities are known for their inclusivity and camaraderie, providing a sense of belonging and support.
Essentials to have.
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Nothing like a good film or a show for inspiration.
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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.
Get a clue.
What kind of gear do I need to start skateboarding?
You’ll need a complete skateboard (deck, trucks, wheels, bearings), and protective gear (a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards).
Where can I learn to skateboard?
Skate parks are a great place to practice, but you can also learn on flat ground or in a smooth open area.
Is skateboarding hard to learn?
Skateboarding has a learning curve, but with practice and determination, you can develop your skills and confidence.
What if I fall?
Falling is a natural part of skateboarding. Wear your protective gear and learn how to fall safely to minimize injuries.
Am I too old to start skateboarding?
Not at all! Skateboarding is for everyone, regardless of age.
Will skateboarding keep me in shape?
Yes! Skateboarding provides a great workout, improving your balance, coordination, and overall fitness.
How do I find other skaters?
Look for skate parks or skate shops near you, or search online for skateboarding communities in your area.
Is skateboarding dangerous?
Skateboarding can be risky, but wearing proper safety gear and practicing in safe environments can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
Are there different types of skateboards, and which type is best for beginners?
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.
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Skateboarding can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a lifelong hobby.
Additional advice for beginners.
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Skateboarding fosters creativity and self-expression, allowing individuals to develop their own unique style.
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Additional information
| 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 |