What is Skateboarding?

Skateboarding, now recognized as an Olympic sport, is not only a competitive endeavor but also a recreational activity that involves riding and performing tricks on a skateboard.

Skateboarders stand atop a flat board, typically constructed from wood, with four wheels securely attached underneath. This versatile board can be used for showcasing impressive skills and stunts or as a means of commuting. The skateboard comprises three essential components:

The Deck

The deck is the actual board on which skateboarders stand. It is the flat, often rectangular, platform that provides the rider with stability and space for performing tricks.

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Trucks

The metal trucks attach the wheels to the deck. They’re installed under the deck and help the skateboard turn smoothly. Skateboard performance and maneuverability depend on truck size and design.

Wheels

Wheels are the cylindrical objects that facilitate the skateboard’s movement. They are typically made of durable materials like polyurethane and vary in size and hardness. The choice of wheels can significantly affect the skateboard’s speed, grip, and ability to perform tricks.

History of Skateboarding

Skateboarding emerged in 1950s California when surfers, unable to ride the waves, improvised by attaching roller skates to plywood for an exhilarating alternative. In the early ’60s, Larry Stevenson’s design modifications fueled a rapid increase in skateboarders.

During this time, brands began sponsoring skateboarders, and Patti McGee became one of the first paid professionals for exhibition shows. However, by the late ’60s, the sport’s popularity waned, only to resurge in the early ’70s.

The ’70s brought innovations, competitions, and improved designs, culminating in 1976 with the invention of the ollie—a fundamental trick allowing skateboarders to leap over obstacles—credited to Alan Gelfand.

The following decade witnessed the division of skateboarding into vert ramps, half pipes, and street skating. Hundreds of skateparks sprouted across the USA. Skateboarding legend Rodney Mullen introduced numerous tricks, and the dominance of street skating began in the early ’90s.

Tony Hawk, an iconic skateboarder, gained fame with daring tricks that inspired countless others to pick up the board. As the new millennium arrived, skateboarding became a sensation across the USA, with a surge in young participants.

The sport gained global recognition, with events like the X Games and Street League Skateboarding on a grand scale. Today, skateboarding is an integral part of youth culture and fashion worldwide, with numerous brands dedicated to the sport.

Skateboarding Tricks

Offers a wide range of skateboarding tricks, including the basic ollie as a starting point. Ollie involves striking the edge of the board while sliding one foot forward to jump along the board. Countless advanced tricks emerged from the ollie, including the ever-popular kickflip, which is accomplished by flipping the board after an ollie.

Skateboarders have created many flip trick variations such as the heel flip, varial flip, and fake flip. Then there’s the grind, where skaters slide their trucks down rails, stairs or pipes while showing off their skill and style.

The tricks performed vary depending on the terrain, whether it is a pool, ramp, air, vert (steep ramp), or street urban landscape. The beauty of skateboarding lies in its limitless potential for creativity, with athletes constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

What Are the Risks of Skateboarding

Skateboarding is risky. Skateboarding usually causes wrist, arm, elbow, and ankle sprains and fractures. Other injuries include head trauma, contusions, abrasions, and soft tissue damage. Helmets, wrist guards, and elbow protection help prevent these serious injuries.

Skate with a helmet in case you fall or strike something. Wearing wrist protectors will protect your wrists from bad tricks and fast crashes. The elbow guards protect your elbows if you slide out during a trick or accident. Follow Qwirkle for more!

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