In order to skateboard the proper way, skaters will need a pair of skating shoes. Skating shoes are constructed with bottoms that are larger and flatter than traditional shoes. This allows the shoes to stick to the board more easily. Some of these special shoes are even reinforced in select areas that are frequently pressed against the board. This prevents them from deteriorating in those often used sections.

Where to start
Skaters should also pick up a helmet and protective elbow, knee and wrist pads for protection. Most new skaters fall so they should be concerned with safety. Most skate parks require helmets. Once equipped with the proper protective gear, skaters should begin by simply standing on the skateboard. Balance the feet on the board without moving by placing the board in the grass or on a rug so that it doesn't roll.

Taking a stance
Skaters who feel more comfortable with their right foot forward have a goofy stance while those comfortable with their left foot forward are regular footed. Take the skateboard outside to the concrete in an open space and put the front foot over the board's truck and use the other foot to push off of the ground. Once the board rolls, place the back foot onto the skateboard. When the board loses its momentum, use the back foot to push off the ground again.

How to turn and stop
To turn, lean in the desired direction or balance more towards the back wheels and swing the front wheels either left or right. When attempting to stop, do a foot-break or a heel-drag. A foot-break requires moving the back foot off the board and dragging it along the ground for resistance. To heel-drag, put the heel of the back foot off the back of the board and lean backwards to cause the front section of the board to lift upwards. Then step downwards with the heel while keeping the front section of that foot on the board. This causes the heel to drag and the board's momentum will stop.

Learn to fall safely
When there isn't time to stop or if it is too difficult to stop, jump right off of the board. This is called bailing. If a fall is imminent, do not land on the hands. The body or shoulder should hit the ground instead. Using the hands for a fall will risk the breaking the fragile, thin wrists which are quite weak compared to the shoulders. You should practice the correct technique for such falls and that way help to avoid the possibility of future injury.

Most of all stay safe and have fun, skateboarding is a great activity that has many benefits including improving coordination, balance, flexibility, fitness, and endurance. Many of the skills used in skateboarding are also a good background for other sports and activities.

Copyright © Darryl on NiceAnswers.com 2017

Editor's Note: Check out this youtube video link for further beginner skateboarding tips.