No wonder why people at older ages give up skating. They think they are imperfect for activities like these. However, that’s just a myth. You can opt for skating at any age. Even in your 50s. Once you enter a skate park, you will find people of all ages skating there.
I taught my dad skating in his 50s. I figured out that all it takes is interest. Luckily he had an athletic history. Hence being physically fit and motivated enough can make you a professional skater. Before you ask if am I too old to start skateboarding, let me take you on the journey me teaching my father skateboarding. Below I have listed down all the necessary steps you need to follow to become a skater in old age.
Am I Too Old To Start Skateboarding?
No, you are not! This a strict and straightforward answer to those who are giving up because of their age. Skating is not age-specific. The sooner you realize it, the better it is for you. Stop giving up your dreams by wondering why you are not in your twenties anymore. You can skate, cruise, and try tricks even in your fifties. Just believe in yourself.
People ask me how much time will it take to learn to skateboard. Let me tell you that it depends on you. Your fitness, stamina, time, and dedication define the time limit to learning skateboarding. clear your mind with the following misconceptions if you are learning skateboarding at an older age.
Keep in mind skating at an older age requires dedication. You have to be consistent with it. Here are some of the benefits of skateboarding. In some moments you may feel like giving up, but those who keep going make a difference. If you are thinking of skating at an older age, having high expectations can hurt you. So I would say be prepared for the following facts.
- Time to Learn
Remember that skating takes time. Even if you start as a kid, it will require effort as any other sports activity does. You should be lenient with yourself. show kindness, and don’t rush. Take rest and practice only to the limit of your body. You will fall, get tired, and feel exhausted. But you have to be patient with it.
- Physical Fitness
Having an athletic history, or a physically fit body is a bonus. However, if you feel like not being energetic enough, I would recommend you spend some time building up your stamina first.
If you have a breathing problem, diabetes, or any other problem, make sure to stay regular on medicine. You should only skate as much as your health allows you. Otherwise, skating may get dangerous. Have a regular checkup session with your doctor.
- Time to Heal
With time, the human body loses its tendency to heal quickly. I am warning you against the bruises and injuries. Falling is in the process of learning. Skating at an older age will cause you to heal slower. That is completely fine, just keep going.
Let’s move on to the steps to follow for skating at an older age.
Instructions to Follow
Wider Board
If you are above your 20s, get yourself a wider board. width of more than 8.25 inches will work for you. It is easier to cruise on a wider board. The longer the wheelbase, the better it is for heightened people. The wider the deck is the more maneuverable it is.
I also switched to a cruiser board in my late 20s. It is more convenient and easier to manage. You should also go with the softer wheels. Hard wheels are great for doing tricks but as a beginner, I would say to use softer wheels.
Protective Gear
Injuries are always inevitable. I believe in protection first. No matter how skilled you are, you must be careful with yourself. Get the right pair of protective gear even before getting a skateboard. Not joking. Take your protection seriously. You are important to your family
I always tell people to wear knee pads and helmets before they start skating. This will not only save you from bruises but will also boost your confidence. It helps you ride selflessly.
Take Lessons
Before abruptly starting to skate, I would recommend you take some lessons first. Try watching some useful videos about it. Learn about different styles of skating. Figure out what can fit you the best are you a cruiser type or want to try tricks? What is a goofy and regular rider? What are the different types of skateboards and how does it help skating?
I would suggest you practice balancing first. Try on the ground or a carpeted floor. Boost your stamina. Try exercises and take a deep breath. Embrace yourself on the skating journey.
Visit Skate-parks
After you learn to balance and get good hands-on pushing. You must visit skateparks. Observe the skaters and figure out what you are missing. Even if you don’t feel like skating one day, just go and sit in the skatepark. This will help you follow a routine and will urge you to skate.
Don’t forget to get yourself the right pair of shoes for skating. Because if you get tired at the end of the day, you won’t be able to do it again. Visit skate parks because it is a great way of staying motivated.
Warm Up
Old age and stiff bones are a common combination. Therefore, before skating get a good warm-up. Warm up and stretch your body before you put yourself in a tiresome activity. No doubt that skating is a tedious task. Stretching up the muscles will allow free movement. The warm-up will bring your body momentum.
I started losing stamina in my late 20s. Muscle aches and tiredness were getting more common day by day. Hence, I changed my routine and started doing a little warm-up before I used to skate. That helped me a lot. Running for a couple of minutes made a clear difference.
Embrace Yourself
Skateboarding teaches selflessness. You will fall repeatedly, and you will have to get up every time. Usually, other skaters are very cooperative. You will hardly find someone bullying you in a skatepark. Especially if you are older than they are. So forget about embarrassment when you are in the learning phase.
When I took my dad to skate because he showed interest. The very first lesson I taught him was “falling will not stop you from learning to skateboard, embarrassment will.” So if you want to learn skating at any age. Believe me, no one is judging you. They all have gone through this phase. Just keep going.
These are the prerequisites for learning skateboarding at an older age. After you are prepared for skating, you can move forward with some tricks and carving. There’s never a full stop to skateboarding. The farther you learn skateboarding, the more you discover about skateboarding.
Here are some of my suggestions for older people before they opt for skating.
Tips For The Day
- Heavyweight bearer board
Normally, your body is not as fit as it was when you were young. I would suggest you get a board that can bear heavy weight. Each board has its weight limit. Get the one with a 120lb-130lb weight limit.
Additionally, get a wider and softer wheel board. Keep the trucks tight enough so it is sufficiently manageable. Ask someone who knows skating for tips on skating.
- Respect other skaters
It may seem to be a smaller aspect but it is crucial. Many beginners start skating in a rush area and end up hitting someone else. Don’t do that. Respect everyone. Even if they are younger than you are. Try to skate in an empty area to avoid bumping into someone.
Mostly they will respect you, but it doesn’t mean you should exploit them. Maybe hitting some younger fellow is more dangerous for you.
- Notify your family
Remember that your family needs you safe and sound. Ghosting away will put them in trouble. Either take a small phone with you or inform your family about where you are going. In case of any emergency, they must be aware of your location.
FAQs
- Can 50-year-olds learn to skate?
Yes, sure! There’s no age limit to skating as long as you are physically fit. If you have the stamina to stand on the board and the flexibility to push yourself, you are good to go.
- What age is appropriate for skating?
You can skate if you are above 5 years old. Before that, it can get a little dangerous. Physical fitness and motivation to learn skateboarding are the requirements. If you have both you can start skating anytime from now.
- Is it worth learning to skateboard?
The skill is worth it. skateboarding is a phenomenal experience. Removes stress from life and is a great source of exercise. Skating is a healthy activity as it involves muscles, mind, and momentum.
Final Words
There’s no age limit to skating after five. Numbers don’t count in skateboarding. It deals with everyone equally. That’s the best thing about skating. So if you are wondering if am I too old to start skateboarding then stop there right away. Grab yourself a skateboard and follow the steps given above. A perfect skater inside you is waiting to come out to show himself to the world. Yes! You can be a great skater even in your 50s. Don’t hesitate and skate hard!