4 Essential Rules for Skateboarders

There is nothing that compares to the rush of catching air on your skateboard. Before you take off on your board, you need to understand the basic rules and etiquette of this adrenaline-filled sport. Here are four essential rules for skateboarders to follow to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Wear Proper Gear

The No. 1 rule for skateboarders is to always wear a properly fitting helmet. Failing to take this precaution can result in serious injuries. Know the symptoms of a brain injury in case you fall. Helmets can prevent some injuries, but there is always a risk. Other gear you should wear includes kneepads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. Shoes that are designed for skateboarding will also provide a better ride experience because of their flat soles and exceptional grip capabilities.

Be Considerate of Others

Even if a skate park does not post its regulations, there are certain unwritten rules that need to be followed. While it may be tempting to try to get in a few more runs, you should always wait your turn in line. You will quickly get a bad reputation at the park if you are hogging the bowl and not waiting for your turn. Be aware where other skaters are so that you do not inadvertently cause a collision. When it comes to consideration of other boarders, self-awareness is key. If you accidentally cause a collision, be sure to apologize and take the blame.

Don't Ride Above Your Skill Level

You are taking a big risk to get an injury if you try to ride above your skill level. You will also put others at risk of injury if you are trying complicated runs at a skatepark during rush hour. Although it is understandable that you want to get going with gusto once you catch the skateboarding bug, it is important that inexperienced boarders do not try out their stuff at the skatepark during busy times. Instead, try out your new skills during off-peak hours. You should always strive to be patient and realistic about your skill level and progress. Be sure to take time to get to know the course and its obstacles before jumping right in.

Speak Up

If you lose your board while at the park, it is vital that you let the other skateboarders know. Speaking up and yelling "board!" will alert everyone at the park that there is an errant board. You do not want to be responsible for an injury because your skateboard got away from you. Since the other boarders are likely concentrating on their own runs, you need to give them a heads-up that a skateboard is on the loose. This is especially important if the board escaped your grip with velocity.

This social sport is a great way to get exercise while connecting with other like-minded adrenaline junkies. Following these rules will help you enjoy the ride and do so safely and with consideration to others.