Skateboarding Made Simple · Chapter 3 of 18
Pushing is how you get moving. It feels clunky at first, but smooth pushing is what makes everything else possible.
In This Chapter
- How to push safely
- Front-foot placement
- How to stop pushing and ride
Gear Check
Board, flat shoes, smooth pavement. A helmet is a smart call.
Step by Step
- Place your front foot over the front bolts, pointing forward.
- Bend your front knee and push off the ground with your back foot, next to the board.
- Take one or two small pushes.
- Bring your back foot onto the tail and turn your front foot sideways.
- Ride, then repeat.
Tip
Small, frequent pushes are smoother and safer than one giant shove.
Remember
Always push with your back foot. Pushing with your front foot (called mongo) works, but it makes tricks harder later.
Warning
Watch for rocks, cracks and twigs. A tiny pebble can stop a wheel cold.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
- Pushing too hard. Start slow. Speed comes with balance.
- Leaning back. Keep your weight centered over the board.
- Front foot stays forward. Turn it sideways once you are rolling.
Skate Nerd Stuff
Your front foot pivots between pointing forward (pushing) and sideways (riding). That quick turn is the habit you are building.
Your Practice Plan
- Push 10 times across a parking lot.
- Push, ride, stop, repeat for 15 minutes.
- Try pushing a full lap without stopping.
Need gear or a hand dialing it in? Stop by the shop inside the Carson City Mall or shop wheels and bearings online.