Mastering the art of skateboarding not only requires the technical skills to balance and navigate the board but also the ability to execute a smooth and efficient start. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just beginning your skateboarding journey, understanding the proper technique to turn on a skateboard is crucial for controlling your movement and staying safe on the board. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of turning on a skateboard, providing step-by-step instructions and valuable tips to help you initiate turns with confidence and precision. By following these steps and practicing consistently, you’ll be well on your way to conquering the streets and skateparks with style and grace.
To initiate a turn on a skateboard, it’s essential to understand the role of your body weight and the relationship between your feet and the board. Start by positioning your feet parallel to the board, with your front foot (the one closest to the front of the board) slightly behind your back foot. As you push off with your back foot, keep your weight centered over the board and begin to lean gently in the direction you want to turn. For example, if you want to turn left, gradually shift your body weight to the left side of the board while simultaneously applying pressure to the toeside edge of your left foot. This combination of leaning and applying pressure will cause the board to pivot and initiate the turn.
As you continue to lean and apply pressure, the board will naturally start to turn. However, it’s important to maintain a fluid and controlled movement to avoid losing balance. Keep your eyes focused on the direction you want to go, and make gradual adjustments as needed. Once you’re comfortable with the basic turning technique, you can experiment with different body positions and foot placements to refine your style and execute more advanced maneuvers. Practice is key, so find a safe and open area where you can repeatedly turn and refine your technique without distractions. With patience and perseverance, you’ll master the art of turning on a skateboard and enhance your overall skateboarding experience.
Mastering the Basic Movements
| Movement | Description |
|---|---|
| Pushing | Use one foot to push off the ground and propel the board forward. |
| Steering | Lean your body in the direction you want to turn. |
| Braking | Drag your foot on the ground to slow down or stop. |
Pushing
To push, place your non-dominant foot on the tail of the board and your dominant foot on the ground. Push off the ground with your dominant foot and glide forward on the board.
Steering
To steer, lean your body in the direction you want to turn. The more you lean, the sharper the turn will be. You can also use your feet to push the board in the desired direction.
Braking
To brake, drag your non-dominant foot on the ground behind the board. The friction between your foot and the ground will slow down or stop the board.
Advancing Your Skills
8. Master the Ollie
The ollie is a fundamental skateboarding trick that allows you to launch off the ground and clear obstacles. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering the ollie:
- Position Your Feet: Place your back foot on the tail of the board, slightly behind the rear bolts, and your front foot near the bolts of the nose.
- Slide Your Back Foot: Slide your back foot quickly forward towards the nose, scraping the tail of the board on the ground.
- Pop the Tail: As your back foot slides forward, snap your ankle down to pop the board’s tail off the ground.
- Slide Your Front Foot: Simultaneously, slide your front foot forward on the nose of the board, leveling it out.
- Lift Your Feet: Once the board is level, lift both your feet towards your chest to gain height.
- Land: As you reach the peak of your jump, bend your knees and land on the board with both feet.
Practice the ollie consistently to improve your timing and coordination. Start on flat ground and gradually progress to obstacles.
| Skill Level | Ollie Height |
|---|---|
| Beginner | 1-2 inches |
| Intermediate | 2-4 inches |
| Advanced | 4+ inches |
Maintaining Your Skateboard
1. Inspect Your Skateboard Regularly
Before every ride, take a few minutes to check your skateboard for any damage or wear. Look for cracks in the deck, loose trucks, or worn-out bearings.
2. Clean Your Skateboard
After each ride, wipe down your skateboard with a clean cloth to remove any dirt, debris, or moisture. This will help prevent rust and extend the life of your skateboard.
3. Lubricate Your Bearings
Every few months, or more often if you ride frequently, lubricate the bearings in your wheels to keep them running smoothly.
4. Tighten Your Trucks
Over time, the trucks on your skateboard can become loose. Tighten them periodically to ensure a smooth and stable ride.
5. Replace Your Grip Tape
When your grip tape becomes worn or loses its stickiness, replace it. This will give you a better grip and control over your skateboard.
6. Protect Your Deck
To prevent scratches and damage, consider applying a protective coating or wax to your deck.
7. Store Your Skateboard Properly
When not in use, store your skateboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
8. Repair Damaged Parts
If you notice any cracks or damage to your skateboard, repair it as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure a safe ride.
9. Replace Worn-Out Components
As your skateboard gets older, certain components may need to be replaced. These include wheels, bearings, and trucks.
10. Consider Professional Maintenance
For major repairs or a thorough tune-up, consider taking your skateboard to a professional skate shop. They have the expertise and tools to ensure your skateboard is in optimal condition.
| Maintenance Task | Recommended Frequency |
|---|---|
| Inspect your skateboard | Before every ride |
| Clean your skateboard | After every ride |
| Lubricate your bearings | Every few months or more often if you ride frequently |
| Tighten your trucks | Periodically |
| Replace your grip tape | When worn or loses stickiness |
How To Turn On Skateboard
There are two main ways to turn on a skateboard: carving and powersliding. Carving is the more common and beginner-friendly method, while powersliding is a more advanced technique that allows for sharper and faster turns.
To carve, simply lean in the direction you want to turn. The more you lean, the sharper the turn will be. Be sure to keep your weight centered over the board and your feet planted firmly on the grip tape. As you lean, the board will naturally turn in the direction you are leaning.
To powerslide, you will need to first build up some speed. Once you are going fast enough, lean into the turn and slide the back wheels of the board across the ground. The faster you are going, the easier it will be to powerslide. Be sure to keep your weight centered over the board and your feet planted firmly on the grip tape. As you powerslide, the board will naturally turn in the direction you are leaning.
People Also Ask About How To Turn On Skateboard
How do you make a U-turn on a skateboard?
To make a U-turn on a skateboard, you can either carve or powerslide. To carve a U-turn, simply lean into the turn and turn your shoulders in the direction you want to go. To powerslide a U-turn, you will need to first build up some speed. Once you are going fast enough, lean into the turn and slide the back wheels of the board across the ground. As you powerslide, the board will naturally turn in the direction you are leaning.
How do you turn on a skateboard while rolling?
To turn on a skateboard while rolling, you can either carve or powerslide. To carve, simply lean in the direction you want to turn and turn your shoulders in the direction you want to go. To powerslide, you will need to first build up some speed. Once you are going fast enough, lean into the turn and slide the back wheels of the board across the ground. As you powerslide, the board will naturally turn in the direction you are leaning.
How do you turn a skateboard without falling?
To turn a skateboard without falling, be sure to keep your weight centered over the board and your feet planted firmly on the grip tape. As you turn, lean in the direction you want to go and turn your shoulders in the direction you want to go. If you start to lose your balance, simply put your foot down on the ground to catch yourself.
