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Forget ollies and kickflips – are you ready to explore skateboarding plus? It's where the true artistry and athleticism of skateboarding collide. This isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about pushing your limits, mastering advanced techniques, and finding a community that shares your passion. We're talking about intricate combos, customized setups, and a dedication that transforms skateboarding from a hobby into a lifestyle. This article is your guide to diving deeper into the world of skateboarding, exploring the nuances that separate the casual rider from the dedicated enthusiast. We'll break down complex tricks, offer insights into optimizing your gear, and connect you with the vibrant community that fuels the evolution of skateboarding. So, buckle up and prepare to raise your game; it's time to learn the exciting possibilities of skateboarding plus.
Skateboarding Plus: The Evolution Beyond the Basics
Skateboarding has always been about progression, but skateboarding plus takes that concept to a whole new level. It's not just about mastering the basics; it's about building upon them, combining them in creative ways, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible on four wheels. Think of it as the natural evolution of the sport, where skaters strive to develop their own unique style and approach. Where it all started? It started as a simple means of transportation, but it quickly evolved into a form of creative expression, a sport, and a lifestyle. Over time, skaters began pushing the limits, inventing new tricks, and developing their own unique styles. This constant evolution is what led to the emergence of skateboarding plus, where skaters combine technical skill with creativity and innovation.
2. Mastering Skateboarding Plus: Advanced Tricks and Techniques
So, you've got the basics down – ollies, kickflips, maybe even a boardslide or two. Now what? That's where skateboarding plus really kicks in. It's about taking those fundamental skills and twisting them, combining them, and generally pushing them to their absolute limit. We're not talking about just landing a trick; we're talking about styling it out, adding your own personal flair, and making it look effortless (even when it's anything but). Think about skaters like Rodney Mullen, who revolutionized street skating with his innovative flatland tricks. He didn't just invent new moves; he redefined what was possible on a skateboard.
The key to mastering advanced tricks is breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps. Don't try to learn a tre flip down a set of stairs right away – start on flat ground, focus on the individual components (the pop, the flick, the catch), and gradually build up your confidence. Film yourself skating, analyze your technique, and don't be afraid to ask for advice from other skaters. And most importantly, don't get discouraged if you don't land a trick right away. Skateboarding is all about persistence, dedication, and a healthy dose of trial and error.
- Break it Down: Divide complex tricks into smaller, manageable steps.
- Film Yourself: Analyze your technique and identify areas for improvement.
- Seek Feedback: Ask other skaters for advice and guidance.
- Practice Consistently: Dedicate time to practicing regularly.
- Don't Give Up: Persistence is key to mastering advanced tricks.
Let's talk specifics. One of the most popular advanced tricks is the varial kickflip – a combination of a kickflip and a pop shove-it. It requires precise timing, a good understanding of board control, and a willingness to commit. Another crowd-pleaser is the heelflip, which involves flipping the board in the opposite direction of a kickflip. Heelflips can be tricky to master, but they're a great way to add some variety to your trick repertoire. And if you're feeling really ambitious, you can try learning a 360 flip – a combination of a 360 pop shove-it and a kickflip. Just be prepared to fall a lot!
Trick | Description | Difficulty |
---|---|---|
Varial Kickflip | Kickflip + Pop Shove-it | Intermediate |
Heelflip | Flipping the board with your heel | Intermediate |
360 Flip | 360 Pop Shove-it + Kickflip | Advanced |
Remember, skateboarding plus is not just about learning a list of tricks; it's about developing your own unique style and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. So experiment, get creative, and most importantly, have fun. The only limit is your imagination.
Skateboarding Plus: Gear and Customization for Peak Performance
Alright, so you're throwing down some serious tricks. But are you really maximizing your potential? Skateboarding plus isn't just about skill; it's also about having the right gear and knowing how to dial it in to your specific needs. Think of your board as an extension of your body – it should feel comfortable, responsive, and perfectly suited to your style of skating. The right setup can make a world of difference in your performance, allowing you to push your limits and progress faster.
Let's start with the deck. The size, shape, and concave of your deck can all affect your skating. A wider deck will generally provide more stability, while a narrower deck will be easier to flip. Deeper concave can give you more control and responsiveness, while a mellow concave will feel more forgiving. Experiment with different decks to find what feels best for you. When I was first starting out, I thought all decks were created equal, but after trying a few different shapes and sizes, I quickly realized how much of a difference it can make. Now, I'm super picky about my decks and always make sure to choose one that complements my style of skating.
Next up are the trucks. Trucks are what connect your wheels to your deck, and they play a crucial role in steering and stability. The height of your trucks will affect how your board feels and how easily you can do certain tricks. Taller trucks are generally better for cruising and carving, while shorter trucks are better for street skating and technical tricks. The tightness of your trucks will also affect your skating. Looser trucks will be more responsive and easier to turn, while tighter trucks will be more stable and less prone to wobbling.
- Deck Size: Affects stability and flip-ability.
- Truck Height: Impacts cruising vs. technical skating.
- Wheel Hardness: Influences grip and slide.
- Bearing Quality: Determines speed and smoothness.
Finally, let's talk about wheels and bearings. Wheels come in a variety of sizes and hardnesses, and the right choice will depend on your skating style and the terrain you're skating on. Softer wheels are better for cruising and provide more grip, while harder wheels are better for street skating and sliding. Bearings are what allow your wheels to spin freely, and high-quality bearings can make a big difference in your speed and smoothness. Don't skimp on bearings – a good set of bearings will last longer and provide a better skating experience. Remember, skateboarding plus is about optimizing every aspect of your setup to achieve peak performance.
4. Skateboarding Plus Community: Finding Your Tribe and Pushing Limits
Finding Your Skateboarding Crew
Let's be real, skateboarding can be a solitary pursuit. Hours spent alone in the skatepark, battling a trick until your legs are burning and your board is battered. But skateboarding plus isn't just about individual skill; it's about the shared experience, the camaraderie, and the mutual support that comes from being part of a community. Finding your tribe can make all the difference, providing motivation, inspiration, and a network of friends who understand the unique challenges and rewards of skateboarding. After all, who else is going to appreciate the pain and glory of landing a backside 180 after weeks of failed attempts?
So, how do you find your crew? Start by hitting up your local skatepark. Observe the scene, watch how other skaters interact, and don't be afraid to strike up a conversation. Ask for tips, offer encouragement, and simply be yourself. Social media can also be a great tool for connecting with other skaters. Look for local skateboarding groups on Facebook or Instagram, attend skateboarding events and competitions, and reach out to skaters whose style you admire. Remember, the skateboarding community is generally welcoming and inclusive, so don't be afraid to put yourself out there.
Pushing Your Limits Together
Once you've found your skateboarding tribe, the real fun begins. Skating with others can push you to new heights, both literally and figuratively. Watching your friends land new tricks can inspire you to try harder, while receiving encouragement and support can help you overcome your fears and doubts. Plus, having someone to film your tricks and document your progress can be a great way to track your improvement and share your passion with the world. Skateboarding plus thrives on this collaborative spirit, where skaters push each other to become better and redefine what's possible.
But it's not just about competition and one-upmanship. The best skateboarding communities are built on mutual respect, support, and a shared love of the sport. Offer constructive criticism, celebrate each other's successes, and be there for each other when things get tough. Remember, skateboarding is a process, not a destination, and having a supportive community by your side can make all the difference. So, embrace the camaraderie, push your limits together, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Beyond the Board: The Enduring Appeal of Skateboarding Plus
Skateboarding plus is more than just a collection of advanced tricks or customized gear; it's a mindset. It's about the relentless pursuit of improvement, the camaraderie forged through shared passion, and the unique self-expression that skateboarding allows. Whether you're perfecting a new combo, dialing in your board setup, or connecting with fellow skaters, the process of skateboarding plus is a rewarding and ever-developing one. So keep pushing your boundaries, stay connected to the community, and never stop exploring the limitless possibilities that skateboarding offers. The world is your skatepark, and the experience is just beginning.