Introduction
Starting your skateboarding journey? Skate IQ’s guide, “10 Things Every New Skater Needs to Know,” provides the key insights to help beginners build confidence, develop essential skills, and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re just stepping on a board for the first time or looking to improve faster, these foundational tips will get you rolling with ease.
1. Tricks Are Overrated
While tricks are exciting, they aren’t everything. Mastering the basics—like balance, pushing, and turning—creates a solid foundation for long-term progression. Focus on control before chasing complex tricks.
2. Mistakes with Gear
Choosing the right skateboard and gear is crucial. Many beginners make mistakes by buying low-quality boards or using improper setups. Invest in a well-built skateboard, wear protective gear, and ensure your setup matches your skill level and goals.
3. How to Turn
Turning (or carving) is an essential skill that helps with board control and flow. Lean into turns using your shoulders and feet while adjusting your weight to maintain balance. Tightening or loosening your trucks can also affect turning responsiveness.
4. Falling is Normal
Every skater falls—it’s part of learning. The key is learning how to fall safely. Try to roll with the impact, avoid putting your hands out stiffly, and wear knee pads or wrist guards when practicing new skills.
5. The Secret to Banks
Skating banks (angled ramps) requires adjusting your approach. Keep your weight centered, use smooth transitions, and commit to the motion. Understanding how to ride banks will help with future skills like dropping in and pumping transitions.
6. Manuals Are Goated
Manuals (balancing on two wheels) improve board control and balance, making them one of the best skills to practice early on. Start on flat ground, shift your weight slightly, and use small adjustments to maintain balance.
7. How Ollies Work
Ollies are the foundation for many tricks, but they require proper technique. Focus on popping the tail, sliding your front foot up, and jumping in sync with the board. Mastering the ollie unlocks endless possibilities in skateboarding.
8. The Truth About Kickflips
Kickflips look flashy, but they take time to learn. Building consistency with ollies and foot positioning first will help in mastering this trick later. Patience and repetition are key.
9. What is Rotating?
Understanding rotation is crucial for tricks like 180s and 360s. Rotating involves using your shoulders and core to lead the motion while keeping your board aligned. Learning this early will make advanced tricks easier to execute.
10. Skatepark Etiquette
Respecting others at the skatepark makes for a better experience. Take turns, be aware of your surroundings, and communicate with fellow skaters. Learning skatepark flow and etiquette helps prevent collisions and keeps sessions enjoyable for everyone.
Final Thoughts
Skateboarding is a journey, and every skater starts somewhere. By focusing on fundamentals, using the right gear, and practicing consistently, you’ll progress faster and with more confidence. Keep pushing, stay safe, and most importantly—have fun!