How to Avoid Injury on a Skateboard
Adjust your trucks to however you feel comfortable, especially when you first buy a new board., Don't go too far outside your comfort zone., If you lose control over your board, either jump off or stop. , If you start falling off your board, there...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Adjust your trucks to however you feel comfortable
The most common mistake is to over tighten trucks.
Loosen them up to the point where when you step on your skateboard it doesn't strain or make squeaky sounds (a spot of synthetic grease on the rubber bushings will improve this).
Wiggle each truck to check that the wheels cannot touch the board during hard turns
- this will cause a sudden stop.
Softer wheels are better for cruising the streets, they give a lot of grip, but will distort on heavy landings.
Harder wheels will distort less and create less friction with the ground, allowing more grip between your shoe and the deck, so harder wheels are more popular in mainstream skating. -
Step 2: especially when you first buy a new board.
A new skater attempting to switch 360-flip on a half-pipe is begging for an injury.
Also, try whatever you like... but always be careful. ,, These will come instinctively with time. , Especially if your brain is still developing. , This has a tendency to cause long term wrist problems.
Try to land on a body part that is most padded. ,, This will help prevent broken bones though it's no guarantee. , Each time you fall on the same body part the risk of serious injury is increased.
Always remember this. -
Step 3: Don't go too far outside your comfort zone.
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Step 4: If you lose control over your board
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Step 5: either jump off or stop.
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Step 6: If you start falling off your board
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Step 7: there are a few immediate things you must do.
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Step 8: Protect your head at all costs - preferably by using your arms.Owning a bike helmet or specialized skateboarding helmet is preferred for beginners.
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Step 9: Do not extend your hands to try to prevent the fall.
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Step 10: Try to not land on your knees unless you're wearing knee pads.
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Step 11: Attempt to roll or keep in a controlled falling motion instead of full forced impact.
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Step 12: After a few hard falls try moving on to something else.
Detailed Guide
The most common mistake is to over tighten trucks.
Loosen them up to the point where when you step on your skateboard it doesn't strain or make squeaky sounds (a spot of synthetic grease on the rubber bushings will improve this).
Wiggle each truck to check that the wheels cannot touch the board during hard turns
- this will cause a sudden stop.
Softer wheels are better for cruising the streets, they give a lot of grip, but will distort on heavy landings.
Harder wheels will distort less and create less friction with the ground, allowing more grip between your shoe and the deck, so harder wheels are more popular in mainstream skating.
A new skater attempting to switch 360-flip on a half-pipe is begging for an injury.
Also, try whatever you like... but always be careful. ,, These will come instinctively with time. , Especially if your brain is still developing. , This has a tendency to cause long term wrist problems.
Try to land on a body part that is most padded. ,, This will help prevent broken bones though it's no guarantee. , Each time you fall on the same body part the risk of serious injury is increased.
Always remember this.
About the Author
Frank Young
Creates helpful guides on lifestyle to inspire and educate readers.
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