Skateboarding Beginners Guide

Skateboarding is more than just a sport - it's a culture, a lifestyle and a form of expression. For youngsters just getting into the world of skateboarding, learning the basics of tricks can make the difference between frustration and joy. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the basic skateboarding tricks that every beginner should master. With a little practice and patience, you'll soon be roaming the streets and skate parks.

1. The Ollie

The Ollie is the most important basic trick in skateboarding and the basis for many advanced tricks. It allows you to jump into the air with your skateboard without using your hands.

That's how it's done:

1. Position your feet correctly : Your back foot should be on the tail (the back end of the board) while your front foot should be centered between the bolts of the front axle.
2. Jump and push the tail down at the same time : Push the tail down with your back foot while simultaneously jumping up with your front foot.
3. Pull the board up : While in the air, pull your front leg up to pull the board with you. Your back foot should lift the board slightly.
4. Landing : Try to put both feet on the board at the same time to ensure a stable landing.

2. The Pop Shuvit

The Pop Shuvit is another basic trick where the skateboard makes a 180-degree turn under the feet while the skater remains in the air.

That's how it's done:

1. Position your feet correctly : Your back foot should be on the tail while your front foot is in the middle of the board.
2. Push the tail and turn the board : Push the tail down and at the same time push the board backwards with your back foot so that it turns 180 degrees.
3. Jump and stay above the board : Stay above the board and prepare for landing by keeping both feet ready to catch the board.
4. Landing : Catch the spinning board with your feet and land safely.

3. The Kickflip

The kickflip is an impressive trick in which the skateboard makes a horizontal rotation around its longitudinal axis.

That's how it's done:

1. Position your feet correctly : Your back foot should be on the tail while your front foot should be slightly angled towards the edge of the board.
2. Jump and kick the board : Push the tail down, jump and at the same time push your front ankle to the side to make the board spin.
3. Stay in control : As the board spins, stay above the board and prepare for landing.
4. Landing : When the board has completed the rotation, catch it with both feet and land safely.

4. The Manual

The manual is not a jumping trick, but a balancing exercise where you lift the front or back end of the board and ride on two wheels.

That's how it's done:

1. Position your feet correctly : Place your feet in the middle of the board.
2. Shift your weight : Lift the front or back end of the board by shifting your weight onto the corresponding foot.
3. Balance : Try to keep your balance and ride on two wheels for as long as possible.
4. Returning to normal riding : Carefully place the board back on all four wheels.

Skateboarding is an exciting and challenging activity that requires lots of practice. These basic tricks are the perfect starting point for any young skater. Remember to always wear protective gear and practice in a safe environment. With patience and perseverance, you will soon learn new tricks and develop your skateboarding skills. Happy skating!