Are you looking to get started with longboarding and don’t know where to start?
Don’t worry, we have you covered!
Every longboarder out there was a beginner once, even if they were a seasoned skateboarder. Longboards are designed differently than other skateboards with a focus on providing a smooth ride.
So there is definitely a learning curve involved when it comes to longboarding. Keep reading to learn how you can get started with longboarding plus some tips to keep you safe and in one piece:
1. Choose a Longboard
Before you can start longboarding, you obviously need a longboard! But choosing the right longboard as a beginner can be a bit confusing.
We recommend checking out Landyachtz, a popular longboard brand that makes top-quality boards that are durable and fun to ride.
Most places will recommend that you start out on a shortboard and work your way up to a longboard but as long as you have a good quality board, the right gear, and the patience to learn, there’s no need to wait!
2. Get Some Safety Gear
Along with your new longboard, you’re going to need some safety gear such as a helmet and pads for your knees and elbows.
Maybe you don’t think you’ll look “cool” in protective gear but wiping out on the pavement and road-rashing your body doesn’t look cool either.
So until you are comfortable on your longboard, wear your protective gear and keep yourself safe!
3. Find Your Natural Stance
Everyone has their own natural riding stance when it comes to riding a longboard. You’re either going to place your right foot forward on the board or your left foot.
To figure this out, try this little exercise: Stand with your feet together and have someone gently push you from behind.
Whichever foot you naturally stick out to catch yourself is the foot you should place forward on your board.
4. Work On Your Balance
Before you get moving on your new longboard, you need to work on your balance. You can practice this by placing your longboard on grass or carpet to keep it from rolling and standing on it in your natural stance.
Keep your feet shoulder-width apart (or a little wider) and your feet close to the bolts of the trucks. Your back foot should be perpendicular to the deck with your front foot angled at about 45 degrees.
Bend your knees slightly and lean forward. Work on this until you feel comfortable and stable.
5. Learn How to Turn and Brake
Before you hit the streets on your new longboard, you also need to learn how to turn and brake.
To turn on your longboard, simply lean your body to the side and the board will move where you want it to go. Longboards are more flexible than shorter skateboards, so you will likely feel the drop a bit before you start to turn.
To practice braking, stand with one foot on the board (your dominant foot) and lift your other foot off the ground. Gently brush your foot against the ground until you are standing. This is how you brake!
Just be careful not to slam your foot down and brake too aggressively. This could cause you to lose control of the board or fall off.
6. Learn How to Fall
Speaking of falling, it’s also important to learn how to fall. While we certainly hope you don’t fall off your new longboard, it is likely to happen.
The key to avoiding an injury when you fall is learning how to fall properly through practice (and wearing your protective gear!).
When you fall, avoid your natural inclination to put out your hands. Instead, tuck your arms across your torso and land on your forearm before rolling sideways on your shoulder.
Practice this “tuck and roll” technique on an exercise mat or pillows on the floor.
When you are skating and feel like you may fall, get low on your board and try to fall forward, not on your back.
Safety Tips for Longboarding
Here at Boardom, our number one priority is your safety! So once you get moving on your new longboard, follow these tips to stay safe and avoid injury:- Don’t wear flip-flops while riding your board, especially when you are starting out.
- Practice in a peaceful location with lots of flat space and no cars.
- Follow the rules of the road and respect traffic signs just as you would if you were driving.
Most of all, don’t head out onto busy streets before you are comfortable! Practicing will help you build the confidence and skills to take on any road while skirting injuries, both severe and otherwise.
For more information about boarding, check out the rest of our blog or contact us here at Boardom if you have any questions!
We look forward to getting you started with longboarding - you’re going to love it!