Understanding The Push
Pushing is one of the most fundamental skills in skateboarding, and getting it right sets the foundation for everything else you’ll learn. Whether you’re a beginner or just want to refine your technique, understanding proper foot positioning and weight distribution will make pushing smoother, more efficient, and more powerful. Let’s break it down.
Front Foot: The Foundation of Stability
Your front foot should sit just below the four bolts, covering the back two bolts at most. This positioning is crucial because it provides the stability needed to control the board. Your front foot is always active, making micro-adjustments to keep you balanced and steering in the right direction.
Common Mistake: If your front foot is too far to one side, your board will turn in that direction. If it’s too far forward, you’ll lose control. A simple test to check your placement: press down on your toes—if the tail lifts, your foot is too far forward.
Back Foot: The Power Behind the Push
Your back foot should only touch the ground in a small zone directly behind your front foot. Reaching too far forward or backward can throw off your balance and reduce your push’s efficiency. After pushing, don’t rush to place your back foot on the board—take your time to set it down softly in the right spot.
Weight Distribution: The Key to Control
A common mistake is shifting too much weight onto the back foot while pushing. Your weight should stay centered over your front foot, allowing for a strong, balanced push. Keeping a slight bend in your front knee helps maintain control while allowing you to reach for a push without losing balance.
Drill: Try balancing on one leg while brushing your back foot lightly against the ground—this helps build strength and control in your front foot.
Body Positioning for Maximum Power
To generate speed and control, hinge at your hips so your chest points slightly toward the ground, aligning your front foot directly under your center. A good rule of thumb is keeping your chin over the heel-side rail of your board.
When pushing, actively hold your front foot in front of your body. This will help you keep a strong stance and ensure your back foot lands in the right position.
Bringing It All Together
Mastering the push is essential for every skater. By focusing on front foot stability, proper weight distribution, and controlled body positioning, you’ll develop a powerful, efficient push that allows you to skate comfortably and confidently. Now that you’ve got the foundation, it’s time to take this skill and start skating wherever you want!