Penny Boarding: A Beginner's Guide To Riding

Introduction to Penny Boards

Okay, guys, let's dive into the awesome world of penny boards! These little dynamos are not just your average skateboards; they're compact, stylish, and super fun to ride. If you're new to the skateboarding scene or just looking for a cool way to cruise around, a penny board might just be your perfect match.

What exactly is a penny board? Well, at its heart, a penny board is a type of plastic skateboard, usually smaller than a traditional skateboard. They typically measure around 22 inches long, making them incredibly portable and easy to carry around. Think of them as the mini-coopers of the skateboarding world – small, zippy, and full of personality. Penny boards are constructed with a flexible plastic deck, which gives them their characteristic flex and makes for a smooth ride. This flexibility helps absorb bumps and cracks in the road, making your journey much more comfortable than you might expect. Unlike wooden skateboards, the plastic deck is also water-resistant, so you don't have to worry as much about damaging your board if you get caught in a drizzle. Penny boards come in a dazzling array of colors and designs, allowing you to express your unique style. From bright neon hues to cool pastel shades, there's a penny board out there for everyone. You can even find boards with custom graphics, allowing you to truly make it your own. One of the great things about penny boards is their versatility. They're perfect for cruising around town, commuting to school or work, or just enjoying a leisurely ride in the park. Their compact size makes them easy to maneuver through crowded streets, and their light weight means you can carry them with ease when you're not riding. But don't let their small size fool you – penny boards can handle a surprising amount of terrain. While they're not designed for hardcore skatepark tricks, they're more than capable of tackling hills, sidewalks, and even the occasional off-road adventure. The wheels on a penny board are typically made from soft, grippy material, which provides excellent traction and helps absorb vibrations. This makes for a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough surfaces. The trucks, which connect the wheels to the deck, are also designed for carving and turning, allowing you to navigate with ease. In essence, penny boards are a fantastic option for beginners and experienced riders alike. They're fun, stylish, and incredibly practical, making them a great way to get around and enjoy the outdoors. So, if you're looking for a new way to explore your surroundings, why not give a penny board a try? You might just find your new favorite way to roll!

Getting Started: Essential Gear and Safety Tips

Before you even think about hopping on a penny board and cruising down the street, let's talk essential gear and safety, guys. Safety should always be your top priority, especially when you're first starting out. Trust me, a little preparation can go a long way in preventing injuries and ensuring you have a blast on your board.

First up, the most crucial piece of gear: a helmet. I can't stress this enough – a helmet is non-negotiable. Head injuries are no joke, and wearing a helmet can significantly reduce your risk of serious harm. Look for a helmet that fits snugly and covers your forehead. Make sure it's certified by a reputable safety organization, like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). A good helmet should feel comfortable and secure, and you should barely notice it's there once you're riding. Next on the list are knee and elbow pads. These are especially important when you're learning to ride, as falls are pretty much inevitable. Pads will protect your joints from scrapes, bruises, and more serious injuries. They give you the confidence to push your limits without worrying too much about getting hurt. When choosing pads, make sure they fit well and don't restrict your movement. You want to be able to bend your knees and elbows freely, so you can maintain your balance and control. Wrist guards are another excellent addition to your protective gear. When you fall, your natural instinct is to put your hands out to brace yourself, which can lead to wrist injuries. Wrist guards provide support and protection for your wrists, reducing the risk of sprains and fractures. Look for wrist guards that have a hard plastic splint on the palm side to provide maximum protection. Now, let's talk about footwear. The right shoes can make a big difference in your riding experience. You want shoes that are flat, closed-toe, and have good grip. Skate shoes are ideal, as they're designed specifically for skateboarding and provide excellent board feel and traction. However, any sneakers with a flat sole and good grip will work just fine. Avoid wearing sandals, flip-flops, or any shoes with slick soles, as these can be dangerous and make it difficult to maintain control. Beyond the physical gear, it's also crucial to consider the environment where you'll be riding. Start in a safe, open area away from traffic and obstacles. A smooth, flat surface like an empty parking lot or a quiet street is perfect for practicing. Avoid riding on busy roads, sidewalks with pedestrians, or areas with a lot of potholes or debris. Before you start riding, take a few minutes to inspect your penny board. Make sure the wheels are securely attached and spin freely. Check the trucks to ensure they're not too loose or too tight. A quick inspection can help you identify any potential problems before they become an issue. Finally, remember to stay aware of your surroundings while you're riding. Pay attention to traffic, pedestrians, and any other potential hazards. Use hand signals to indicate your intentions to other road users. And most importantly, don't ride beyond your abilities. Start slow, practice in a safe environment, and gradually work your way up to more challenging terrain. With the right gear and a focus on safety, you can enjoy the thrill of riding a penny board without putting yourself at risk. So, gear up, get out there, and have fun – but always remember to stay safe!

Mastering the Basics: Stance, Pushing, and Balancing

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of riding a penny board, guys! Once you've got your gear sorted and you're in a safe spot, it's time to learn the fundamentals: stance, pushing, and balancing. These are the building blocks of penny board mastery, and once you've got them down, you'll be cruising in no time.

First things first, let's find your stance. This refers to the way you position your feet on the board, and it's crucial for balance and control. There are two main stances: regular and goofy. If you ride regular, your left foot is in front, and you push with your right foot. If you ride goofy, your right foot is in front, and you push with your left foot. Not sure which stance is right for you? Here's a simple trick: have a friend gently push you from behind. Whichever foot you naturally put forward to catch yourself is likely your front foot. Another way to figure it out is to imagine sliding on a slippery surface. Which foot would you put forward to maintain your balance? That's probably your front foot. Once you've determined your stance, place your front foot on the board just behind the front bolts, at a slight angle. Your foot should be positioned comfortably, allowing you to pivot and steer. Your back foot should be on the ground, ready to push. Now, let's talk about pushing. This is how you generate momentum and get moving on your penny board. Start by bending your front knee slightly and leaning forward. Use your back foot to push off the ground, making smooth, even strokes. As you push, try to keep your balance and maintain a steady posture. Avoid jerky movements or pushing too hard, as this can throw you off balance. Once you've pushed a few times, bring your back foot onto the board, placing it behind the back bolts at a similar angle to your front foot. You should now be standing on the board with both feet, balancing and gliding. This is where the real fun begins! Balancing is key to riding a penny board smoothly and confidently. The small size and flexible deck of a penny board can make it feel a bit wobbly at first, but with practice, you'll get the hang of it. To maintain your balance, keep your knees slightly bent and your core engaged. This will help you absorb bumps and maintain your center of gravity. Look ahead in the direction you want to go, and use your arms for balance, like a tightrope walker. If you feel yourself starting to lose balance, try shifting your weight slightly or making small adjustments with your feet. Practice makes perfect, so don't get discouraged if you wobble or fall at first. It's all part of the learning process. Spend some time just practicing standing on the board and balancing, without even pushing. Get a feel for the board's movement and how it responds to your weight shifts. Once you're comfortable balancing, start incorporating pushing into your practice. Push a few times, then bring your back foot onto the board and glide for a bit. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the distance and speed of your glides. Remember to stay relaxed and have fun! Tension can make it harder to balance, so try to stay loose and enjoy the ride. With consistent practice, you'll soon be cruising around like a pro. So, find your stance, master the push, and embrace the balance – you've got this!

Turning and Carving Techniques

Okay, guys, you've mastered the basics of stance, pushing, and balancing – awesome! Now it's time to add some flair to your riding and learn how to turn and carve on your penny board. Turning and carving are essential skills for navigating your surroundings and adding some style to your ride. They allow you to maneuver around obstacles, control your speed, and experience the exhilarating feeling of gliding through turns. Let's start with the basics of turning. On a penny board, turning is primarily done by leaning your body weight in the direction you want to go. This shifts the pressure on the board's trucks (the axles that hold the wheels), causing it to turn. To turn right, lean your weight slightly to the right. To turn left, lean your weight slightly to the left. It might sound simple, but it takes practice to get the hang of it. Start by practicing small, gentle turns. As you become more comfortable, you can gradually increase the sharpness of your turns. One common mistake beginners make is over-leaning or using their feet to steer. While your feet play a role in controlling the board, the primary turning force should come from your body weight. Try to keep your feet relaxed and let your body do the work. Another helpful tip is to look in the direction you want to go. Your body naturally follows your gaze, so focusing on your destination will help you turn more smoothly and effectively. Now, let's move on to carving. Carving is a more advanced turning technique that involves making smooth, flowing turns by leaning your entire body into the curve. It's similar to skiing or snowboarding, and it's a ton of fun once you get the hang of it. To carve, start by bending your knees and lowering your center of gravity. This will give you more stability and control. As you approach a turn, lean your body into the curve, keeping your weight balanced over the board. The deeper you lean, the sharper the turn will be. As you carve, try to maintain a smooth, fluid motion. Avoid jerky movements or sudden shifts in weight. Think of yourself as drawing a smooth arc on the pavement with your board. Carving can be a bit challenging at first, but with practice, you'll develop a feel for it. Start with gentle turns on a smooth, flat surface. As you become more confident, you can try carving on hills or more challenging terrain. One of the keys to successful carving is to use your entire body. Your legs, hips, and torso should all work together to create a smooth, flowing motion. Don't be afraid to experiment with different body positions and weight shifts to find what works best for you. Another important aspect of turning and carving is speed control. As you turn, your speed will naturally decrease. However, if you're going too fast, you may find it difficult to control the board. To control your speed, you can use a technique called foot braking. This involves dragging your back foot on the ground to slow down. Be careful not to drag your foot too hard, as this can cause you to lose control. With consistent practice, you'll develop a feel for how much pressure to apply to slow down effectively. So, there you have it – the basics of turning and carving on a penny board! Remember to start slow, practice in a safe environment, and focus on smooth, controlled movements. With a little patience and persistence, you'll be carving like a pro in no time. Now, get out there and start turning those corners into graceful curves!

Stopping Safely: Braking Techniques

Alright, guys, you're cruising along on your penny board, feeling the wind in your hair – it's awesome! But what happens when you need to stop? Knowing how to stop safely is just as important as knowing how to ride. In fact, it might be even more important. Being able to stop quickly and effectively can help you avoid accidents and stay safe on your board. So, let's dive into some essential braking techniques.

The most common and arguably the most important braking technique for penny boards is the foot brake. This is your go-to method for slowing down and stopping in most situations. To foot brake, start by shifting your weight slightly onto your front foot. This will take some of the pressure off your back foot, making it easier to drag. Next, carefully take your back foot off the board and gently place it on the ground. Apply pressure gradually, dragging your foot along the pavement to slow down. The more pressure you apply, the faster you'll slow down. It's important to use a smooth, controlled motion when foot braking. Avoid stomping your foot down suddenly, as this can cause you to lose balance or even fall. Start with light pressure and gradually increase it until you reach your desired speed. As you're foot braking, keep your knees bent and your core engaged. This will help you maintain your balance and control. Look ahead in the direction you want to go, and use your arms for balance, just like when you're riding. Foot braking can take some getting used to, so it's a good idea to practice in a safe, open area. Start by practicing at slow speeds, and gradually work your way up to faster speeds as you become more comfortable. Another useful braking technique is the heel drag. This is similar to foot braking, but instead of dragging the entire foot, you drag your heel. To heel drag, shift your weight slightly onto your front foot, then lift your back foot and drag your heel along the pavement. This technique can be useful for making small speed adjustments or for stopping on smooth surfaces. Like foot braking, it's important to use a smooth, controlled motion and avoid sudden movements. In emergency situations, you may need to stop quickly and forcefully. In these cases, you can use a technique called the power slide. This involves turning the board sharply while dragging your back foot, causing it to slide sideways and slow down rapidly. Power sliding can be effective for stopping quickly, but it's also more difficult to control than foot braking or heel dragging. It's important to practice power sliding in a safe environment before attempting it in a real emergency. To power slide, start by leaning your body weight in the direction you want to turn. As you turn, drag your back foot forcefully along the pavement, causing the board to slide sideways. Use your arms and body weight to maintain your balance and control the slide. Be aware that power sliding can wear down your wheels quickly, so it's best to use it sparingly. Another important aspect of stopping safely is anticipation. The best way to avoid accidents is to anticipate potential hazards and slow down or stop before they become a problem. Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of traffic, pedestrians, and other obstacles. If you see a potential hazard ahead, start braking early to give yourself plenty of time to stop. And there you have it – a rundown of essential braking techniques for penny boards! Remember, practice is key to mastering these techniques. So, get out there, find a safe spot, and start practicing your stops. With a little time and effort, you'll be stopping safely and confidently in no time. Now you can focus on enjoying the ride, knowing you've got the stopping part covered!

Advanced Techniques and Tricks (Once You're Comfortable)

Okay, guys, so you've nailed the basics, you're turning and carving like a pro, and you've mastered the art of stopping safely. What's next? Well, it's time to take your penny board skills to the next level with some advanced techniques and tricks! Remember, these are for when you're feeling confident and comfortable on your board. Don't rush into anything too difficult, and always prioritize safety. But once you're ready, these tricks can add a whole new dimension of fun to your riding.

Let's start with the kickturn. This is a fundamental skateboarding maneuver that allows you to quickly change direction. It's a great skill to have for navigating obstacles or just adding some style to your riding. To perform a kickturn on a penny board, start by riding at a moderate speed. As you approach the point where you want to turn, shift your weight slightly onto your back foot and lift the front wheels off the ground. Use your back foot to pivot the board in the direction you want to go. As the board turns, shift your weight back onto your front foot and lower the front wheels. The key to a good kickturn is balance and control. Practice shifting your weight smoothly and pivoting the board without losing your balance. Start with small kickturns and gradually increase the angle as you become more comfortable. Another fun trick you can try on a penny board is the manual. This involves riding on your back wheels while lifting the front wheels off the ground. Manuals require a good sense of balance and control, but they look super cool when you pull them off. To perform a manual, start by riding at a moderate speed. Shift your weight slightly back and lift the front wheels off the ground. Use your arms and body weight to maintain your balance and keep the front wheels elevated. The longer you can hold the manual, the better. Practice finding the balance point and keeping your weight centered over the back wheels. Start with short manuals and gradually increase the distance as you improve. Once you've mastered the manual, you can try adding a little flair with a nose manual. This is the opposite of a manual, where you ride on your front wheels while lifting the back wheels off the ground. Nose manuals are more challenging than regular manuals, as they require a lot of weight on the front foot. To perform a nose manual, shift your weight forward and lift the back wheels off the ground. Keep your weight balanced over the front wheels, and use your arms and body weight to maintain control. Start with short nose manuals and gradually increase the distance as you become more comfortable. Another cool trick you can try is the shuvit. This involves rotating the board 180 degrees beneath your feet while you stay in the same spot. Shuvits are a fun way to add some spin to your riding and can be a stepping stone to more advanced tricks. To perform a shuvit, start by standing on your board with your feet positioned comfortably. Crouch down slightly and then pop the board into the air using your back foot. As the board rotates, jump with it and land back on the board with your feet in the same position. The key to a good shuvit is timing and coordination. Practice popping the board and jumping with it until you can land back on the board consistently. Once you've mastered the shuvit, you can try more advanced variations, such as the pop shuvit or the varial kickflip. Remember, learning advanced tricks takes time, patience, and practice. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Keep practicing, and you'll eventually nail it. And most importantly, have fun! The goal of riding a penny board is to enjoy yourself, so don't put too much pressure on yourself to learn tricks quickly. Just relax, have fun, and enjoy the ride. So, there you have it – a few advanced techniques and tricks to take your penny board skills to the next level! Once you're comfortable with the basics, these tricks can add a whole new dimension of fun to your riding. But always remember to prioritize safety, wear your protective gear, and practice in a safe environment. Now, get out there and start shredding – you've got this!

Maintenance and Care for Your Penny Board

Okay, guys, you're out there shredding on your penny board, having a blast, and mastering all sorts of cool tricks. But just like any piece of equipment, your penny board needs a little TLC to keep it in top condition. Proper maintenance and care will not only extend the life of your board but also ensure that it rides smoothly and safely. So, let's talk about how to keep your penny board in tip-top shape.

One of the most important aspects of penny board maintenance is keeping the wheels clean and free from debris. Dirt, sand, and other particles can get stuck in the bearings, causing them to slow down and wear out prematurely. To clean your wheels, start by removing them from the board. You'll need a skate tool or a wrench to loosen the axle nuts. Once the wheels are off, you can use a brush or a cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. If the wheels are particularly dirty, you can use a mild soap and water solution to clean them. Just make sure to dry them thoroughly before putting them back on the board. Next, it's important to clean the bearings. Bearings are the small metal rings that allow the wheels to spin smoothly. Over time, they can become dirty and clogged, which can slow down your board and make it harder to ride. To clean your bearings, you'll need to remove them from the wheels. There are special tools available for this, but you can also use a skate tool or a wrench to carefully pry them out. Once the bearings are out, you can soak them in a solvent, such as mineral spirits or acetone, to remove any dirt or grime. After soaking, rinse the bearings with clean solvent and allow them to dry completely. Once the bearings are dry, you'll need to lubricate them. This will help them spin smoothly and prevent them from rusting. You can use a special bearing lubricant or a light machine oil. Apply a few drops of lubricant to each bearing and then spin it to distribute the lubricant evenly. Once the bearings are cleaned and lubricated, you can put them back into the wheels and reattach the wheels to the board. Make sure the axle nuts are tightened securely, but not too tight. The wheels should spin freely without wobbling. Another important aspect of penny board maintenance is checking the trucks. The trucks are the metal axles that connect the wheels to the deck. Over time, the trucks can become loose, which can make your board feel unstable and difficult to control. To check the trucks, try wiggling them back and forth. If they feel loose, you'll need to tighten the axle nuts. Use a skate tool or a wrench to tighten the nuts until the trucks feel secure, but not too tight. You should still be able to turn the board easily. In addition to cleaning the wheels and checking the trucks, it's also a good idea to inspect the deck regularly. Look for any cracks or damage to the plastic. If you find any cracks, it's important to repair them before they get worse. You can use a special plastic adhesive to repair small cracks. For larger cracks, you may need to replace the deck. Finally, it's important to store your penny board properly when you're not using it. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the plastic. Store your board in a cool, dry place, such as a closet or a garage. By following these simple maintenance and care tips, you can keep your penny board in top condition for years to come. A little bit of TLC will go a long way in ensuring that your board rides smoothly and safely, and that you can continue to enjoy the thrill of penny boarding for a long time. So, take care of your board, and it will take care of you!

Conclusion: Enjoy the Ride!

Okay, guys, we've covered everything from the basics of stance and pushing to advanced tricks and maintenance. You're now equipped with the knowledge and skills you need to confidently ride your penny board and enjoy all the fun it has to offer. So, what's the final word? Enjoy the ride!

Penny boarding is more than just a way to get around; it's a lifestyle, a community, and a whole lot of fun. It's about feeling the wind in your hair, the pavement beneath your feet, and the freedom of gliding through your surroundings. It's about expressing your style, challenging yourself, and connecting with others who share your passion. Whether you're cruising to class, exploring your neighborhood, or hitting up the skatepark, penny boarding can add a spark of excitement to your everyday life. But remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the journey. Don't get too caught up in learning tricks or comparing yourself to others. Just relax, be yourself, and let the good times roll. As you continue to ride, you'll discover your own unique style and preferences. You'll find your favorite spots to cruise, your go-to tricks, and your own personal way of expressing yourself on your board. That's the beauty of penny boarding – it's a journey of self-discovery and self-expression. And don't forget to share the stoke! Penny boarding is even more fun when you're riding with friends. Invite your buddies to join you, explore new spots together, and cheer each other on as you learn new tricks. The penny boarding community is a welcoming and supportive one, so don't be afraid to connect with other riders and share your experiences. Of course, safety should always be a top priority. Remember to wear your protective gear, ride in safe areas, and be aware of your surroundings. Don't take unnecessary risks, and always ride within your abilities. But with the right precautions, you can enjoy the thrill of penny boarding without putting yourself in harm's way. And finally, remember that practice makes perfect. Like any skill, penny boarding takes time and effort to master. Don't get discouraged if you stumble or fall at first. Just get back on your board and keep practicing. With each ride, you'll become more confident, more skilled, and more comfortable on your board. So, there you have it, guys! You're ready to embark on your penny boarding adventure. Go out there, explore the world, and have some fun. The possibilities are endless, and the journey is just beginning. So, grab your board, put on your helmet, and get ready to ride into the sunset. Enjoy the ride, make some memories, and never stop rolling! This is just the beginning of your penny boarding story, and it's going to be an awesome one.