Posts Tagged ‘skateboarding’

History Of Skateboarding

May
5

It is easy in finding out all there is to know about the history of skateboarding. The earliest skateboards were made by special wood boards and rollers in the early 1950′s. This was recognized as side walk surfing. It all began around the 1940′s or the 1950′s.

The skateboards were created with wooden boards and roller skates stuck on the bottom. They looked like scooters. The wooden board had a milk crate and a handle attached to it for support. As time passed, the look was changed by removing the crate and started to use it on two by fours with steel wheels. You can imagine how many injuries occurred at that time, not having any protection. It is unknown who began this creation, but we do know that a few people came up with the idea all at the same time.

It began when surfers across California got the idea of surfing on the streets. This became popular in the late 1950′s Surfing became very popular, and people began tie surfing on a board while cruising on board. Later on surfers began riding big waves, making skateboarding gain even more popularity.

In the late 1950′s the first professional skateboards built went up for sale. This is when it became even more popular. In the mid 1970′s, parks began being built all over. The first one created was in Florida. In 1963 competitions were held mostly downhill and freestyle. Companies began producing skateboards with clay heads.

Eventually the skating popularity came to an end. Everyone thought it was no longer available since it came to an unexpected end. Companies closed down and anyone that wanted to continue this sport had to do it on their own.

Then in the beginning of the 1970′s urethane skateboard wheels were invented. These are wheels that are similar to what is used today, boards with metal wheels. Fiberglass boards were also created around the same time. They became popular again like the sport we see today. Different popular moves were created giving the sport a popularity never seen before. Unfortunately another downfall occurred causing parks to close down. Street skaters began building their own ramps at home so they can skate. Companies owned by skateboarders began creating new styles of boards to try. Nothing became of this.

The beginning of game commercials took a big leap making skating even more popular. Pro skaters tried their best in making it to grow again. They succeeded in re-creating the sport all over making the first Extreme game to become a huge success. In the year 2000”s, the production of video games became a huge hit, and were accepted by skaters.

Skateboarding is practiced by kids and adults for fun. If the proper protection is worn it will be safe to practice skateboarding with the presence of your friends, making it even more fun. Over the years, it has become a safe sport that is enjoyed by may children playing with their friend and adults doing the same.

There is no right or wrong way to practice this sport. Everyone from children to adults can enjoy skating. Special parks have been built to accommodate everyone.

Skateboarding For Beginners

Apr
19

Before you begin skateboarding you will want to equip yourself with these handy suggestions that will ease your entrance into this sport. A keen sense of balance and movement are required, and the first skill that all skateboarders need to master is learning how to stand. Knowing how to push, move, and turn are also important skills that need to be acquired before you attempt any tricks. By mastering the basics you will enjoy the experience of this popular adrenalin sport.

Due to the nature of the sport, protective clothing like a helmet, kneepads, and elbow pads are essential. A wrist guard is also a good idea and can help to prevent a sprained wrist, since most people tend to fall forward. The type of board you get will depend on how you intend to skate and you will want to make sure that your clothes, shoes, and the various skateboard components all match your intended usage.

It is important to make sure that your board is the right size for your height, otherwise you may compromise your stability. The width of the board will determine whether you will use it mostly for ramps, street and tricks, or general transport. If you are in doubt about what is the most appropriate board for your needs, you will find that most skateboard shops will usually have an attendant who will be able to assist you in making an informed decision about your purchase.

Learning how to stand properly on the board is the first step to mastering the basics. If you stand with your left foot in front and push with the right you will be adopting a regular stance, otherwise you will be standing what is known as a “goofy” position.

By placing your feet in the middle of the bolts as you get onto the board, you will be in the best place to maintain your balance. Keeping your knees slightly bent, and your arms outstretched with elbows bent, as if you are surfing a wave, will also aid your balance.

To get moving, you will need to propel yourself by pushing with your back foot. Keep your front foot just off centre to gain additional stability while you push-off. Using your front foot to push=off is considered a bad practice because it will only cause you to push slower and also reduce your stability. Once you are moving, you will find that you can gain momentum by doing an easy move called a tic tac.

Another important skill is learning to take a corner. This is easiest done by leaning with your hips through the corner. Of more importance, you should use your balance to shift your weight through your feet at the same time. By leaning back you will find that you can turn right, and will be able to turn left by shifting your weight to both your toes. Jumping off is an easy way to stop. An alternative is to do an easy trick called a power slide.

Once you have mastered the basics, you will find that skateboarding will reward you with a great sense of satisfaction. There are many skateboard parks that are safe places for you to gain the necessary practice which you will need in order to master your skills. By making sure that you get the necessary instruction from an expert before doing any trick that you cannot perform, is the best path to succeeding in this thrilling sport.