March to the Skate Park - Getting Started Tutorial

by Mel @troubleon8wheels

Hi friends,

I'm here today to introduce you to a space that many of us are less familiar with - the skate park.

Every skate park is unique. The way users flow around the park is different in every space, so please take a little time to explore every new space before you start shredding hard.

There is a lot of skate park terminology. the CIB Tricktionary is one of the most useful lists I have found.

This is skate park 101 - an introduction to the space for those who have never been and are curious to try.

In the videos below, I will introduce ways to get started when your only experience is flat ground. I also tell you about skate park etiquette - it's really important! The poster below is from SkateBoard GB, but applies to all users.

Pre-requisite Skills

In my opinion, you should be confidently rolling forwards and backwards, and know how to stop using your toe stops backwards. Slopes give you less time to think, so your body needs to be able to react. Please respect the space and wear all the protective gear.

In our My Roller Skate Journey Journal, March's challenge is 'My First Drop In'. It is unrealistic to think you will drop in within one month if you are brand new to the skate park, but if you are already familiar with ramps and how they feel, it may be something you are working towards.

The merit patches are available here, if you want to get one now and save it for later.

Stay safe and have fun!

Steps 1 and 2

Step 1 - Rolling forward on the transition

Step 2 - Rolling backwards on the transition

Step 3 - putting it together to roll forwards and backwards aka pumping.

When you reach more height and speed with your pumping, try to lean back a little as you roll forward and forward a little as you roll back, in order to ride the transition all the way up. I used to aim for the coping, but by bunching up my body, it meant my feet could never get there!

Have fun and stay safe.

Mel xo