Nowadays, electric skateboards have become very popular because of their portability and ease of use. For a beginner, learning to ride an electric skateboard can be quite difficult. Many people give up after only a few tries. However, with a little bit of practice, anyone can learn how to ride an electric skateboard like a pro!
I have been riding an electric skateboard for more than three years now, and I want to share my experience and teach you how to ride an electric skateboard. After this guide, you will be able to ride an electric skateboard at the pro level.
Before progressing, it is necessary to learn more about electric skateboards and regular skateboards that will help us in our riding.
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Electric skateboards vs Regular skateboards
When it comes to skateboards, there are two main types: electric and regular. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to know which one is right for you.
Regular skateboards are the classic choice – they’re simple, easy to use, and relatively inexpensive. On the other hand, electric skateboards are powered by batteries and motors, making them faster and more powerful than regular skateboards. They’re also more expensive and can be more difficult to control.
So, which one is right for you? If you want a simple, low-cost option, go with a regular skateboard. If you’re looking for speed and power, an electric skateboard is a way to go. Just make sure you’re prepared to spend a little extra money and be careful when riding!
Below are instructions regarding riding an electric skateboard, but you can also use the same to use regular skateboards.
Master the Electric Skateboard Riding in 10 Minutes
Following this guidance, you will be able to ride an e-skateboard in just single 10 minutes. The only thing needed is to spend some time practicing after this.
Here are the steps you need to follow:
Balancing on Two Feet: Front & Back Foot
Before riding your electric skateboard, it is important to find your front and back foot. It will help you shift balance properly on the board and avoid injury. Stand on the board with one foot in the middle and the other on the tail to do this. If you feel more stable with your back foot in the middle, then that is your front foot. Once you have found your front and back foot, you are ready to start riding.
Get the perfect posture
The next step is to get into the proper riding position. To do this, stand on the board with your feet shoulder-width apart and your weight evenly distributed. Bend your knees slightly and lean forward from your hips. You should be looking down at the board, not ahead of you.
Once you’ve mastered the proper stance, you’ll be able to stay balanced and enjoy the ride. If you continue to experience trouble while standing, check the proper guide that we already covered on how to stand up on a skateboard.
Choose the Right Skateboard Stance
The proper skateboard stance is important for both balance and control. There are three main skateboard stances: regular, goofy, and switch. Each stance has its benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the right one for your skating style is important.
Regular stance is the most popular choice for street skating, as it provides more stability and control.
- Goofy stance is often used for carving skating, as it allows for more powerful pop and easier ollies.
- Switch stance is less common, but it can be helpful for skaters who want to be able to ride both regular and goofy.
Ultimately, the best stance is the one that feels most comfortable and gives you the most control. Experiment with different stances until you find the one that works best for you.
Start Pushing
After you have found your stance, it’s time to start moving. To do this, simply push off with your back foot and begin gliding forward. As you gain speed, you can pump your legs up and down to generate more momentum.
If you’re having trouble getting started, try pushing off with both feet simultaneously. Once you’ve gotten the hang of it, you’ll be able to start and stop on your own.
Things to Know Before Riding an Electric Skateboard
After learning to ride an electric skateboard, it is necessary to know some important tips to make your ride safer and more secure.
Braking & Turning
Riding an electric skateboard can be great fun, but it’s important to know how to brake and turn properly. The good news is that braking and turning on an electric skateboard are relatively easy once you get the hang of it.
When it comes to braking, you’ll want to use your back foot to apply pressure to the rear brake. You can also use your front foot to slow down by dragging it along the ground.
As for turning, simply lean in the direction you want to go. The further you lean, the sharper the turn will be. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to get out there and experiment!
Check board before riding
Before getting on an electric skateboard, it is important to check the board and make sure everything is in working order. It includes checking the battery, motor, wheels, and trucks. If any of these components are damaged or not working properly, it could result in an accident. Therefore, it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Proper Safety Gear
Safety should always be your number one priority when riding an electric skateboard. While the boards themselves are relatively safe, some risks are still involved. Injuries are more likely to occur if you fall off the board or are hit by another rider. To protect yourself, it is recommended to read our guide on preventing skateboard injuries.
First and foremost, always wear proper safety gear such as helmets, elbow and knee pads, and wrist guards are essential for protecting your body in case of a fall. Always prefer those helmets that are specifically designed for skateboarding.
Fall Prevention Tips
As the weather gets colder, many people find themselves turning to skate as a way to get around. However, skating can be a dangerous activity, and falls are common. Electric skateboards can help reduce the risk of falling by providing a stable platform and extra speed.
When you fall, try to relax your body as much as possible and tuck your chin to prevent head injuries. Most importantly, always skate in a safe and controlled manner. Try to ride in those areas where there are not many people around so that in case you do fall, you’re not likely to injure anyone else.
Speed and range
Always hold on to an awareness of how fast you’re going and how much progress you’ve made. Electric skateboards can reach speeds of up to 25 mph, so it’s important to know your limits. The range of an electric skateboard varies depending on the model, but most boards can travel for about 10-15 miles before needing to be recharged.
When you’re first starting, it’s best to take things slow and only ride in areas where you’re comfortable. Once you get the hang of things, you can start to explore different terrains and experiment with different speeds. Last but not least, always be respectful of others when riding your board.
Traffic Areas
We prefer not to ride on the road because it is not safe for you and the pedestrians. In some places in the US, it is illegal to ride a skateboard on the road, so we have an article on can you ride an electric skateboard on the road in which we already covered the USA laws about skating.
But when you are riding in traffic areas, always be extra cautious. Be sure to yield to pedestrians and give them plenty of space. Likewise, be aware of other skateboarders, cyclists, and cars. Never assume that someone has seen you, and always use hand signals to let others know where you’re going.
Learn Remote Control
Some electric longboards come with remote control. If your board comes with a remote, familiarize yourself with it before riding! Having that remote in your hand will make your skating experience much better.
Final Thoughts
Electric skateboarding is a great way to get around, but it’s important to be safe and prepared before hitting the streets. Many people find a daunting task, especially beginners, but it is necessary to know about these things. By following the above tips, you can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable skating experience for everyone involved.
And as always, happy skating!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is an electric skateboard hard to ride?
No, an electric skateboard is not hard to ride. I would say that anyone who can stand up on a normal skateboard can also learn to ride. The nice thing about electric skateboards is that they effectively eliminate the need to push to get started, so you can focus on steering and braking.
Is riding an electric skateboard good exercise?
It depends on how much you ride it. If you’re just using it for short distances or cruising around, it’s not good to exercise. However, if you use it to commute to work or school, it qualifies as a good form of exercise.
Can you do tricks on an electric skateboard?
Yes, you can do tricks on electric skateboards. For example, you can do a ‘kick flip’ by lifting your front foot and quickly kicking the skateboard’s tail with your back foot. But you need to all learn tricks before doing any.