How to Ride a Penny Board
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If you’ve been looking for a fun and portable way to get around town, a penny board might be the perfect addition to your collection. Ideal for cruising and commuting, these lightweight, compact skateboards offer a unique riding experience that you won’t want to miss. In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics of how to ride a penny board, so you can hit the pavement with confidence.
1. Choose the right penny board
Before you start learning how to ride, it’s essential to choose the right penny board for your needs. These boards come in various sizes, colors, and styles, so take your time to find one that suits both your personal preferences and skill level. As a beginner, you may want to start with a board that has a longer deck and slightly larger wheels, making it easier to maintain stability while you’re learning the ropes.
2. Find your footing
Like any skateboard, riding a penny board starts with understanding where to place your feet. Begin by determining whether you’re more comfortable riding in a regular stance (left foot forward) or a goofy stance (right foot forward). Practice balancing on the board with both feet before attempting any movement.
3. Prepare for push-off
In order to propel yourself forward on your penny board, you’ll need to generate momentum by pushing off with your back foot. Place your dominant foot towards the front of the board in an angled position, keeping most of your weight on it. Use your back foot to push off from the ground and generate forward momentum while maintaining balance.
4. Maintain balance and control
Your first few rides probably won’t be perfect – and that’s okay! It takes time and practice to maintain control over your penny board as you cruise around town. The key is learning how to shift your weight correctly in order to move smoothly across different surfaces and around obstacles.
Keep your knees slightly bent and your body centered above the board, with your weight evenly distributed across both feet. As you ride, you’ll need to lean slightly in the direction you want to turn. For a sharper turn, shift more weight onto your front foot and push down on the edge of the board.
5. Practice stopping
Knowing how to stop safely is just as important as learning how to ride. The most common method for stopping on a penny board is called foot braking. This involves taking your back foot off the board and gently dragging it along the ground until you come to a stop. Be sure to practice this technique at slower speeds before working your way up to faster rides.
6. Explore new tricks and techniques
Once you feel comfortable with the basics of riding a penny board, it’s time to start exploring new tricks and techniques that can make your cruising experience even more enjoyable. Practice carving, kickturns, and power slides until you feel confident enough to take on more advanced maneuvers.
Remember, learning how to ride a penny board is a fun journey that requires patience and persistence. Start slow, build confidence, and soon enough, you’ll be an expert cruiser ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way. Happy riding!