Common Skateboarding Mistakes That Slow Down Your Progress

Are you tired of feeling like you’re stuck in slow motion while everyone around you effortlessly glides on their skateboards?

Do you find yourself frustrated with your progress, wondering why you’re not picking up speed as quickly as you’d like?

Well, fear not!

In this blog, we’re going to uncover the common skateboarding mistakes that are holding you back and slowing down your progress.

Skateboarding is an art that requires finesse, skill, and determination. It’s not just about standing on a board and rolling along; it’s about mastering the techniques, understanding the mechanics, and avoiding those pesky mistakes that can hinder your speed and performance. By identifying these mistakes and learning how to overcome them, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking your full skateboarding potential.

Whether you’re a beginner just starting your skateboarding journey or an experienced rider looking to break through a plateau, this guide will shed light on the pitfalls that many skaters fall into. From improper foot placement and lack of balance to ineffective pushing techniques and failing to maintain your equipment, we’ll cover it all.

So, get ready to revolutionize your skateboarding game as we dive deep into the world of common skateboarding mistakes and how to overcome them. Say goodbye to sluggish progress and hello to a new level of speed, agility, and confidence on your board. It’s time to leave those mistakes in the dust and propel yourself towards skateboarding greatness.

Importance of avoiding mistakes to improve skills

Understanding the importance of avoiding mistakes can significantly impact your progress and overall skill level. Here’s why it matters:

Progression and Growth:

Mistakes can be stumbling blocks that impede your growth as a skateboarder. By avoiding common skateboarding mistakes, you create a solid foundation on which to build your skills. This allows you to progress faster, tackle more advanced tricks, and push your boundaries.

Efficiency and Effectiveness:

Mistakes often lead to wasted time, energy, and effort. When you make errors repeatedly, you’re not utilizing your practice time effectively. By focusing on avoiding mistakes, you can optimize your practice sessions, making them more efficient and productive. This enables you to learn and improve more quickly.

Risk Reduction:

Skateboarding can be physically demanding and sometimes risky. Avoiding mistakes helps minimize the risk of injuries. By learning proper techniques, following safety guidelines, and understanding potential pitfalls, you create a safer environment for yourself and others.

Confidence and Mental Toughness:

Repeatedly making mistakes can erode your confidence and discourage you from pursuing your skateboarding goals. Avoiding mistakes builds confidence, enhances self-belief, and fosters a positive mindset. As you gain more control over your skills, you’ll become mentally resilient, better equipped to handle challenges and setbacks.

Long-Term Progress:

Skateboarding is a journey, and continuous improvement is key to long-term success. By avoiding mistakes, you establish good habits and develop a solid skill foundation. This paves the way for continued growth, allowing you to take on more advanced maneuvers and challenges as you progress.

Enjoyment and Fulfillment:

Skateboarding is meant to be enjoyable and fulfilling. Making the same mistakes repeatedly can lead to frustration and hinder your overall experience. By avoiding mistakes, you’ll experience more successful attempts, which in turn boosts your enjoyment, motivation, and satisfaction with the sport.

Common Skateboarding Mistakes That Slow Down Your Progress

#1. Skateboard Setup Mistakes

Making mistakes in your skateboard setup can hinder your progress and limit your potential. To ensure optimal performance and maximize your skateboarding experience, it’s crucial to avoid common skateboard setup mistakes.

Choosing the wrong skateboard size

Selecting the correct skateboard size is paramount for a comfortable and responsive ride. Choosing a skateboard that is too small or too large for your body type and skating style can greatly affect your performance. Riding a board that is too small may compromise stability and control, while a board that is too large can impede maneuverability and limit your ability to perform tricks with precision.

To avoid this mistake, consider your height, weight, shoe size, and the type of skateboarding you prefer. Consulting with knowledgeable skateboarders or visiting a reputable skate shop can help you determine the appropriate skateboard size for your needs.

Incorrect skateboard hardware installation

Skateboard hardware refers to the bolts and nuts that secure the trucks to the deck. Improper installation of skateboard hardware can lead to various issues, including instability, rattling, and even accidents. It’s essential to ensure that the bolts are tightened securely but not overtightened, as this can affect the board’s flex and responsiveness.

Additionally, using the correct length of hardware is crucial to avoid the bolts protruding too far or not providing enough grip. Regularly checking and maintaining the tightness of your skateboard hardware is also important for safety and optimal performance.

Improper adjustment of trucks and bushings

The trucks and bushings on a skateboard play a significant role in its maneuverability and responsiveness. Incorrectly adjusted trucks and bushings can affect your ability to turn, carve, and control the board.

If the trucks are too loose, you may experience instability and wobbling, while overly tight trucks can restrict your ability to execute turns smoothly. Similarly, improper bushing selection and adjustment can lead to a lack of responsiveness or uncomfortable riding experience.

Experimenting with different bushing hardness and adjusting the tightness of your trucks can help you find the optimal setup that suits your riding style and preferences.

By avoiding these common skateboard setup mistakes, you can ensure that your board is optimized for your needs and enhance your overall skateboarding experience. Taking the time to research and understand the appropriate skateboard size, correctly installing the hardware, and properly adjusting the trucks and bushings will provide a solid foundation for your progress and enjoyment.

#2. Foot Placement Mistakes

Wrong stance and foot placement on the skateboard

One of the fundamental foot placement mistakes is adopting the wrong stance on your skateboard. Stance refers to whether you ride with your left foot forward (regular stance) or your right foot forward (goofy stance).

Choosing the appropriate stance is essential for maintaining balance and control. Riding with the wrong stance can lead to instability, making it challenging to execute tricks and maneuvers with confidence. Experiment with both regular and goofy stances to determine which feels more natural and comfortable for you.

Additionally, improper foot placement on the skateboard can hinder your ability to perform tricks effectively. Placing your feet too close together or too far apart can affect your balance and restrict your range of motion. Finding the optimal width between your feet is crucial for stability and maneuverability.

Generally, placing your feet shoulder-width apart provides a solid foundation for maintaining control while allowing for proper weight distribution.

Uneven weight distribution on the board

Maintaining proper weight distribution on your skateboard is vital for balance and control. Uneven weight distribution can cause the board to tilt or become unresponsive, making it difficult to execute tricks and turns smoothly.

Some skaters tend to put more weight on their front foot, while others may favor their back foot excessively. Striking the right balance by evenly distributing your weight between both feet allows for better board control and enhances your ability to respond to changes in terrain or obstacles.

Not keeping shoulders parallel to the board

Your upper body posture plays a significant role in maintaining stability and executing tricks accurately. Failing to keep your shoulders parallel to the board can lead to balance issues and limit your range of motion. When your shoulders are misaligned with the board, it can affect your ability to generate power and control your movements effectively.

Practice keeping your shoulders squared with the board, which helps you maintain stability, execute turns smoothly, and perform tricks with greater precision.

By avoiding these common foot placement mistakes, you can enhance your skateboarding skills and progress more effectively. Take the time to experiment with different stances, find the optimal foot placement width, and maintain even weight distribution between your feet.

Additionally, focus on aligning your shoulders parallel to the board to optimize your body posture and control.

#3. Pushing Mistakes

Efficient and effective pushing is a fundamental skill in skateboarding that directly impacts your overall speed, control, and ability to navigate different terrains. Unfortunately, many skaters make common pushing mistakes that hinder their progress.

Incorrect pushing technique

Mastering the correct pushing technique is crucial for maintaining momentum and propelling yourself forward on the skateboard. One common mistake is using an inefficient pushing motion that wastes energy and limits speed. Proper pushing technique involves using the ball of your back foot to generate power and pushing off the ground with a fluid motion.

Aim to extend your leg fully during each push and follow through with a smooth stride. Avoid dragging your foot on the ground or pushing with excessive force, as it can cause unnecessary friction and reduce speed.

Pushing with the wrong foot

Another mistake that slows down progress is pushing with the wrong foot. Skateboarders typically have a dominant pushing foot, which is the foot they feel most comfortable using to propel themselves forward. Pushing with the wrong foot can disrupt your balance, hinder control, and affect your overall skateboarding experience.

Determine your dominant pushing foot by practicing different pushes and observing which foot feels more natural and provides better stability. Once you identify your dominant foot, focus on using it consistently for pushing to improve your balance and overall skateboarding performance.

Lack of balance while pushing

Maintaining balance while pushing is essential for efficient movement and control. Some skaters struggle with balance when pushing, which can lead to wobbling, instability, and difficulty maintaining speed.

To improve balance, focus on keeping your weight centered over the board as you push. Distribute your weight evenly between your pushing foot and your front foot, ensuring that your upper body remains stable and aligned with the board. Engage your core muscles and practice pushing in a controlled manner to develop better balance and stability.

By addressing these pushing mistakes, you can enhance your skateboarding progress and experience greater speed, control, and fluidity. Take the time to refine your pushing technique, emphasizing a smooth and powerful motion with the correct foot. Pay attention to your balance, ensuring that your weight distribution promotes stability and efficient movement.

Remember, skateboarding is a continuous learning process, and pushing is a skill that can always be improved.

Practice regularly, focusing on proper technique, foot placement, and balance. As you develop a solid foundation in pushing, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your overall skateboarding performance.

#4. Turning Mistakes

Mastering the art of turning is essential for navigating obstacles, carving lines, and executing tricks. However, several common turning mistakes can hinder your progress and limit your ability to maneuver with ease.

Overturning or under-turning while turning

One of the most prevalent turning mistakes is either over or under-rotating during a turn. Overturning occurs when you rotate your shoulders and hips too much, causing your board to veer off its intended path.

On the other hand, under-turning happens when you don’t rotate enough, resulting in a wider turning radius and potential loss of control. Achieving the right balance requires practice and body awareness.

Focus on aligning your shoulders, hips, and board in harmony, allowing for a smooth and controlled turn. Gradually increase your rotation while maintaining stability to find the optimal amount of turn for each maneuver.

Failure to use the correct turning technique

Skateboarding offers various turning techniques, such as carving, kick turns, and power slides. Failing to use the appropriate turning technique for a particular situation can hinder your progress. For example, attempting a sharp kick turn on a wide turn would reduce your speed and fluidity.

Conversely, relying solely on carving for tight turns can limit your maneuverability. It’s important to understand the different turning techniques and apply them accordingly. Learn when to use a quick kick turn or a smooth carve to optimize your turning ability and adapt to different skateboarding environments.

Not leaning enough or leaning too much while turning

Proper weight distribution and body positioning are crucial for successful turns. One common mistake is not leaning enough or leaning too much while turning, which can lead to loss of balance and control. When initiating a turn, it’s important to shift your weight towards the balls of your feet and lean into the direction of the turn.

This action helps create a solid connection between your body and the board, enabling better control and maneuverability. Practice finding the right amount of lean for each turn, adjusting it based on the speed, radius, and surface conditions.

By addressing these turning mistakes, you can enhance your skateboarding progress and elevate your turning skills. Focus on finding the right balance between rotation, technique, and weight distribution. Develop body awareness and practice different turning techniques to expand your repertoire and adapt to various scenarios.

#5. Ollie Mistakes

The ollie is the foundation of countless skateboarding tricks, and mastering this fundamental maneuver is essential for progressing as a skateboarder.

Incorrect foot placement for ollie

Proper foot placement is crucial for executing a successful ollie. Placing your feet incorrectly can throw off your balance and compromise your ability to generate pop and lift. One common mistake is having your feet too close together or too far apart. Optimal foot placement involves positioning your back foot on the tail, with the ball of your foot near the edge, and your front foot placed just behind the front bolts, angled diagonally across the deck.

Experiment with slight adjustments to find the foot placement that feels most comfortable and provides maximum control and pop for your ollies.

Failure to jump high enough

Generating enough height is vital for performing stylish ollies and progressing to more advanced tricks. One common mistake is not jumping high enough during the ollie motion. Insufficient jump height limits your ability to clear obstacles and execute tricks with finesse.

To overcome this, focus on exploding upwards with both legs, using the energy generated from the pop of your tail. Visualize springing off the ground and tucking your knees towards your chest to maximize your vertical leap. Practicing explosive leg strength exercises, such as squat jumps or box jumps, can also help improve your jumping ability.

Not sliding the foot correctly while ollie

The sliding motion of your front foot plays a vital role in the ollie’s execution. Failing to slide your front foot correctly can hinder your ability to level out the board and achieve a clean, controlled ollie. One common mistake is not sliding the foot forward enough or not dragging it up the grip tape.

To ensure proper slide, focus on using the side or arch of your front foot to drag up towards the nose of the board while simultaneously jumping and popping the tail. This sliding motion creates the necessary upward force to level out the board in the air and land smoothly. Practice the sliding motion repeatedly to develop muscle memory and enhance the consistency of your ollies.

By addressing these ollie mistakes, you can elevate your skateboarding progress and refine your ollie technique. Pay attention to your foot placement, ensuring it’s optimal for stability and control. Focus on generating maximum jump height by exploding upwards and tucking your knees. And don’t forget to emphasize the sliding motion of your front foot, using it to level out the board and achieve a clean ollie.

#6. Tricks and Jumping Mistakes

Attempting advanced tricks before mastering basic ones

Skateboarding is a progressive sport, and it’s essential to build a strong foundation by mastering the basics before moving on to more advanced tricks. One common mistake is attempting complex tricks without fully developing the fundamental skills and techniques required.

It’s crucial to invest time and effort in learning and perfecting the basic tricks such as ollies, kickflips, and grinds. By focusing on mastering these fundamental maneuvers, you’ll develop the necessary board control, balance, and confidence to tackle more advanced tricks successfully.

Focusing only on jumping high, instead of landing correctly

Jumping high is undoubtedly an impressive feat, but it’s equally important to prioritize landing correctly. Many skateboarders make the mistake of solely focusing on achieving maximum height without paying attention to their landing technique. Improper landings can lead to loss of balance, instability, and even injuries.

It’s essential to practice landing with stability and control, ensuring your feet are properly positioned on the board upon touchdown. Work on absorbing impact with your legs and maintaining a centered stance to achieve smooth and controlled landings, regardless of the height of your jump.

Failure to practice consistently and regularly

Consistency and regular practice are key elements in any skateboarder’s journey to progress. However, one common mistake is failing to dedicate enough time and effort to regular practice sessions. Skateboarding is a skill-based activity that requires repetition and muscle memory to improve.

Make a conscious effort to set aside dedicated practice time, whether it’s at a local skate park or in your own driveway. Consistency will help you build confidence, refine your techniques, and overcome challenges more effectively. Consider creating a practice schedule or joining a skateboarding community to stay motivated and inspired.

By recognizing and addressing these tricks and jumping mistakes, you can accelerate your skateboarding progress and enhance your overall performance. Remember to prioritize mastering the basics before attempting advanced tricks, focusing on both jumping high and landing correctly, and dedicating regular practice time to refine your skills.

As you navigate your skateboarding journey, don’t be discouraged by setbacks or frustrations. Embrace the learning process, seek guidance from experienced skateboarders, and celebrate small victories along the way. Progression in skateboarding is a continuous journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

#7. Common Bad Habits That Hinder Progress

As you strive to improve your skateboarding skills, it’s important to be aware of common bad habits that can hinder your progress. Let’s delve into three key habits that can slow down your development:

Lack of confidence and fear of falling

Confidence is a crucial element in skateboarding. Many beginners struggle with a lack of confidence and an inherent fear of falling. It’s natural to feel apprehensive about trying new tricks or maneuvers, especially when there’s a risk of injury. However, allowing fear to hold you back can hinder your progress.

Remember that falling is a part of the learning process in skateboarding. Embrace the falls as opportunities to learn, grow, and build resilience. Gradually pushing past your comfort zone and developing confidence will help you unlock new skills and elevate your skateboarding journey.

Skipping warm-up exercises before skateboarding

Warming up before engaging in any physical activity is essential for injury prevention and optimal performance. Unfortunately, one common mistake skateboarders make is neglecting to warm up before a session. Proper warm-up exercises prepare your muscles, joints, and cardiovascular system for the physical demands of skateboarding. Warm-up routines can include dynamic stretches, mobility exercises, and light cardio to increase blood flow and enhance your overall readiness. By incorporating a thorough warm-up into your routine, you’ll reduce the risk of injuries and perform at your best.

Using the wrong gear or not wearing protective gear

Skateboarding involves inherent risks, and using the right gear is crucial for your safety and progress. One detrimental habit is either using the wrong gear or not wearing protective equipment altogether. Skateboarding requires the appropriate skateboard deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings suitable for your skill level and style of riding.

Using ill-fitting or low-quality gear can affect your stability, control, and overall performance.

Additionally, neglecting to wear essential protective gear such as a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards increases the likelihood of injuries that can impede your progress. Invest in high-quality gear and always prioritize your safety by wearing the appropriate protective equipment.

Tips for Avoiding Skateboarding Mistakes

To help you avoid these common skateboarding mistakes and keep your progress on track, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:

Seeking guidance from experienced skateboarders

One of the best ways to accelerate your learning curve and avoid unnecessary mistakes is by seeking guidance from experienced skateboarders. They have the knowledge and expertise to offer valuable insights, tips, and tricks that can help you navigate the skateboarding world more effectively.

Whether it’s learning proper technique, understanding skatepark etiquette, or gaining insights into equipment selection, their guidance can be instrumental in your development as a skateboarder.

Practicing consistently and gradually building up skills

Consistency is key when it comes to improving your skateboarding skills. Make it a habit to practice regularly, setting aside dedicated time for skateboarding sessions. By consistently engaging with your board, you’ll develop muscle memory, improve balance, and enhance your overall control on the skateboard.

Additionally, it’s important to understand the importance of gradual progression. Start with the basics and gradually build up your skills, mastering each technique before moving on to more advanced maneuvers.

This approach allows for a solid foundation and reduces the risk of injury or frustration that can result from attempting tricks beyond your current ability.

Wearing proper protective gear and warming up before skating

Skateboarding is an activity that involves inherent risks, and wearing proper protective gear is essential for your safety. Always wear a helmet designed for skateboarding to protect your head from potential impact and reduce the risk of head injuries.

Additionally, elbow pads, knee pads, and wrist guards can provide crucial protection against scrapes, bruises, and fractures. Remember, even the most experienced skateboarders wear protective gear because they understand the importance of safety.

Before hopping on your skateboard, it’s also essential to warm up your body. Performing a series of stretching exercises can help increase flexibility, improve blood circulation, and prepare your muscles for the physical demands of skateboarding. Warm-up exercises can include leg swings, arm circles, lunges, and gentle stretches to loosen up your body and reduce the risk of strains or muscle injuries.

By incorporating these tips into your skateboarding routine, you can minimize the chances of making common mistakes that may hinder your progress. Embrace the wisdom of experienced skateboarders, practice consistently, and prioritize your safety by wearing proper protective gear and warming up before each session.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What age is appropriate for skateboarding?

Skateboarding can be enjoyed by individuals of various age groups. While there is no strict age limit for skateboarding, it is generally recommended for children aged 5 and above. However, it’s important to consider the physical coordination and motor skills development of the child before allowing them to skateboard. Younger children should be supervised by an adult and encouraged to practice in a safe and controlled environment.

Is skateboarding a dangerous sport?

Like any sport or physical activity, skateboarding carries a certain level of risk. It is important to acknowledge the potential for injuries, especially when attempting tricks or riding at high speeds. However, by wearing appropriate protective gear such as helmets, elbow pads, knee pads, and wrist guards, you can significantly reduce the risk of injuries. Additionally, learning proper skateboarding techniques, practicing in designated skateparks, and gradually building up skills can contribute to a safer skateboarding experience.

Can I skateboard if I have a fear of falling?

Fear of falling is common among beginners and even experienced skateboarders. It’s natural to feel hesitant when trying new maneuvers or riding at higher speeds. Overcoming this fear requires patience, practice, and building confidence in your abilities. Starting with basic riding and gradually progressing to more advanced skills can help you develop the necessary balance, control, and resilience to overcome your fear of falling. Remember, it’s essential to wear protective gear and always practice within your comfort zone.

How long does it take to learn how to skateboard?

The time it takes to learn how to skateboard varies from person to person. Factors such as age, physical fitness, previous experience with balance-based activities, and the amount of time dedicated to practice can influence the learning process. Learning the basics of skateboarding, such as riding comfortably and maintaining balance, can take a few weeks to a few months.

However, mastering more complex maneuvers and tricks can take considerably longer. Remember to be patient, persistent, and enjoy the journey of learning and progressing at your own pace.

Do I need to be physically fit to skateboard?

While skateboarding does require a certain level of physical fitness, it is a sport that can be enjoyed by individuals with various fitness levels. Skateboarding itself can contribute to improving fitness as it engages multiple muscle groups, improves cardiovascular endurance, and enhances balance and coordination.

However, it’s important to listen to your body, start at your own pace, and gradually increase the intensity of your skateboarding activities. If you have any concerns about your physical fitness, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before engaging in any new physical activity.

Conclusion…

We have explored the common skateboarding mistakes that can significantly hinder your progress on the board. By identifying these mistakes and understanding their impact, you are now equipped with the knowledge to overcome them and take your skateboarding skills to new heights.

Remember, skateboarding is a continuous learning process, and making mistakes is a natural part of the journey. The key is to learn from those mistakes and use them as stepping stones towards improvement. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can save yourself from unnecessary frustration and accelerate your progress.

One of the essential aspects of skateboarding is mastering the fundamentals. Proper foot placement, maintaining balance, and using effective pushing techniques are crucial for speed and control. By paying attention to these foundational elements and practicing them consistently, you will develop a solid foundation for your skateboarding skills.

Another important aspect is maintaining your skateboard and equipment. Regular maintenance, such as keeping your wheels clean and properly inflated, can significantly impact your speed and performance. Additionally, ensuring that your skateboard is in good condition by replacing worn-out parts will contribute to a smoother and faster ride.

Lastly, never underestimate the power of practice and perseverance. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your skateboarding skills. Stay dedicated, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and embrace the process. The more time you spend on your board, the more comfortable and confident you will become.

As you continue your skateboarding journey, remember to enjoy the ride. Skateboarding is not just about speed and tricks; it’s about the freedom, creativity, and pure joy of riding on four wheels. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your victories, and have fun along the way.

So, go out there, armed with the knowledge of these common mistakes, and make a conscious effort to avoid them. With each skateboarding session, focus on refining your technique, maintaining your equipment, and pushing your boundaries. Before you know it, you’ll be soaring through the skatepark with increased speed, confidence, and finesse.

Now it’s time to put these lessons into action. Get back on your board, strive for improvement, and enjoy the exhilarating journey of skateboarding. Remember, progress may take time, but with determination and a willingness to learn, you’ll break through those barriers and experience the thrill of reaching new levels in your skateboarding skills.

Keep pushing forward, stay committed, and never stop chasing your skateboarding dreams. The road to progress is wide open, and it’s up to you to carve your own path. So, embrace the lessons learned, keep evolving, and keep pushing yourself to become the best skateboarder you can be. The world of skateboarding is waiting for you to unleash your true potential. Happy skating!