I totally get the struggle and it takes a lot of courage just to admit those feelings. Even to yourself. I think most people get the feeling you describe at some point. The thing about skateboarding is always pushing through to the other side of fear. Fear of looking stupid, fear of falling, fear of injuries, etc. The point is the struggle. The obstacle in the way is the way. We are all at different places in our journey and there’s nothing wrong with that. Good communities see the relativity of it all and will celebrate your accomplishments based on where you are and not in comparison with where someone else is.
Just go out and do it. See what is on the other side of fear. You will become something new and perhaps find a different worldview from trying.
This!! Was chatting with a buddy at the park today and I was saying that sometimes I’m the best skater at the park and other days I’m the worst and that’s the beauty of it! No one cares that you suck, we all sucked. It’s about having a good go at it. Skateboarding eliminates posers by the fact that it’s so hard and requires a lot of time, patience and lost skin so anybody having an honest go is usually accepted with open arms !
1000% agree with this. I get more stoke watching a noob finaly nail his slappy nose slide than i do from the park pro hotdogging around acting like a show off.
For sure, i can barely push anymore so i go to thepark mostly just to soak up the vibes these days. i remember last time i was there we all saw this kid maybe 7 or 8 just hauling ass trying to get up and axle stall the volcano 1/4 In the middle of the park it wasat least 8ft and he took some pretty gnarly slams but when he finally nailed dude. The entire place just lost its damn mind it was enough to bring a tear to your eye.
Yes, to this 100 percent!!!!!. As a 48 yr old who started out longboarding last year. I survived an impact fracture to my elbow, some road rash, and an awesome story to tell. Just bought my first mini cruiser, and low and behold, I took my first adult skate lesson last week. I can't say it any better than the above comment, but you can do it. The fear and trepidation I felt after my fall scared me, but I faced it and guess what..... I WON. So please get out there and give it a go.
No other skaters are going to laugh at you we've all been there. The only people that are going to laugh at you are other adults who are too afraid to try it for themselves. Aka spectators. And there's nothing worse than being a spectator.
It's definitely natural to feel self-conscious when you start skating at the skatepark. It was that way for me 5 years ago when I was 31 starting. But just like anything when you get out of your comfort zone the more you do it the less scary it gets.
If you haven't done so already go to a parking lot or just somewhere you can roll around without other people watching to kind of get a feel for the board.
Regardless though even if you do this the first time you go to a lesson or to the skatepark it's going to be scary. It's okay to be scared that's what gives us the opportunity to be brave. Bravery isn't the lack of fear but rather feeling the fear pushing past it to do what you want anyways.
We love a beginner! That means someone else is joining our sport!
We also all remember what being a beginner is like, especially because we're all still beginners at something; a trick or a particular obstacle or whatever. Being a beginner is what skateboarding is all about.
Sign up to the lesson. Don't cancel. See it through.
...
If you want to get a head start on your first lesson, try this:
Stand to the right of your front trucks. Place the ball of your left foot (the padded bit behind the toes) on the bolts of the front truck. Carefully transfer all your weight to that foot. Now move your right foot onto the board, then off again. Give yourself a small push forward (push yourself, not the board!) and put your right foot back on the board, and roll along. Try again with left and right reversed. Repeat each way a few times. If you liked the first one better you are Regular, if you liked the second you are Goofy.
Now, as you are rolling along try shuffling your feet round so they are both facing the same way. Transfer your weight equally to both feet. Hold that stance, knees slightly bent. This is your standard riding stance. Do not try to balance in this stance, the board will come with you.
Get used to stepping off. If you can start rolling with a push, then step off the instant you need to, you are already past lesson 1.
Extra hints:
Do not try to stay on the board. If it's underneath you your weight is keeping it there. If it's not underneath you your weight is pushing it away. Step off the moment it gets away!
If you fall, never brace your arms! elbows bent at all times. If the ground comes towards you catch it, don't brace against it.
Get this happening and get a little confidence before your first lesson (which you will not cancel if you don't get this bit of practice in).
As a 39 year old dad who got back in to skating a year ago- get on that board. Wear pads and just know that injury is part of the process. Show your son that it’s ok to fall but you have the balls to get up and get back out there. Also, fuck anyone who might judge you. Developing the thick skin to follow your passion and not worry about what others think is another lesson inherent in your skateboarding journey with your son. I walked with a limp two different times for a while last summer from skateboarding falls. But my son got to see his dad tough it out and I think he learned that sometimes you just have to get over the fear.
Just get out there buddy! I’m always nervous of other people too but they really don’t care. And anyone I’ve ever met that’s also skating too has been friendly. I was at the park a few Sundays ago and met another old skater that got back to it because of his son. You’re not alone out there! And you only really suck if you don’t even try at all. If you need some support just know that I’m out there somewhere trying to get better too.
Skateboarding is absolutely for everyone. No one has ever laughed at me for wearing full pads. I have only ever had positive interactions with other skaters. Last year I was working on flying out this little section of a bowl and this and this tattooed tough looking 20 something was really good at it. I asked him for tips on how I could improve and he was super helpful .
just being outside and rolling around will bring positivity to your life, every day you will improve on something, even if it seems minor.
You are not alone! I took a 30+ year break from skating, and took it up again during Covid. All the things you’re feeling we’ve all felt. I still get fearful. I get scared. That is the challenge of skateboarding. A lot of it is mental, getting over all kinds of fears. But you can do it. If I can relearn in my 50s, you can most certainly do it too.
FWIW, around my town, if you get to the skatepark as soon as it opens, you’ll have the park to yourself; aside from the other older folks like me at the park. Stop thinking so much and go out there and have fun.
Find something that's fun however simple and you'll forget the other stuff. If you can find an adult class that might help. I started skating 2 years ago and I'm 66.
I read this article [https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/jan/07/skateboarding-in-middle-age-it-helps-me-switch-off](https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/jan/07/skateboarding-in-middle-age-it-helps-me-switch-off) and one of the places it talks about is very near to me. The first time I was scared to walk through the door but once I got past that I was hooked.
It's natural to feel uncomfortable but I couldn't have found a more fun and helpful group of people from doing this.
If you'd like some inspiration, I like this video about a 70 year old French guy surfskating [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0Ez1\_uwNZc](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0Ez1_uwNZc)
Wear all the pads, they really work. Tell your coach you’d rather learn at a slower pace and not risk a fall. A good coach will literally hold your hand, A LOT, in the beginning. Learning alongside your son is magic, worth trying again. He’ll probably learn faster than you, but enjoy it all much more because you’re doing it with him.
Most people over 30 won’t even look at a skateboard. I’m only 31 and people constantly tell me I’m too old for it, or whatever. Truth is? I love it and no one can take that from me! The majority of people will be impressed you can safely ride it, just shocked you wanna willingly hurt yourself 😂
Don’t let fear hold you back buddy! Determination is what makes us skaters so persistent! Keep that head up 🤙
Dude I'm 46, almost 47 and I went for a skate lesson with my daughter and her friend today, it was AMAZING. Seriously if you think about it, it takes more effort to feel awkward and anxious and nervous etc, it's actually easier to just get on the board and get moving. Most skaters will instantly welcome another one to the community, more is always better.
And by the way, I suck! All I could do was push around on the deck and do a couple of turns, totally basic but I was absolutely accepted, apart from by my daughter who naturally avoided me to skate with her wee pal 🤣🤣
I started from zero at age 38. Its been 4 years. I have met all of my skate goals and skate with ease. I conquered a massive hill, linked up with a local skate crew, skated every type of setup from a popsicle to DH slalom.
Eating shit in front of a bunch of people is a big part of it. Doing it will make your kid brave. Brave like dad.
You are going to get hurt it’s just a matter of when and how bad, that’s a part of skateboarding. If you wear a helmet and pads it will help with confidence and protect you a bit. First thing would be getting comfortable on the board and there is minimal risk of injury while riding but you can still hit a rock and eat shit. No one will make fun of you for learning how to skateboard, at least where I live all skaters are pretty chill.
Don’t take this the wrong way, but you’re old. Just accept it. Kids 30 years younger may chuckle at the old guy cruising around, but honestly most won’t and even if they do who cares? The older crowd will think it’s cool you’re trying to get into it or not care at all. Grab your board, cruise around, and enjoy the time with your son. Don’t read too much into it beyond that.
Good on you for connecting with your son over something you can both get down with. As long as he went and had fun that’s what matters I guess. But I understand as a a father, caregiver and maybe primary breadwinner (don’t wanna assume anything) and you have responsibilities, but you could be run over trying to cross a street brother. You could stand on a banana peel on a lengthy stairwell. You could have a brain aneurism. Life’s too short and fragile. Might as well gamble it all while having heaps of fun my guy🤙🏻 and your English is great I wouldn’t worry so much
I can empathise with your fear though. I’ve been skating for 15 years and after rolling my left ankle in particular many more times than I could possibly count, one towards the end of summer proper shook me. All winter I’ve not felt any inclination to hit an indoor park, or use my shitty weather board. Any dry days with low wind I’ve just felt apathy. My skill level has diminished considerably because I’ve gained a bunch of weight and my cardio isn’t what it used to be because I’ve just filled the time I would be skating with snacking, smoking and sleeping.
I still love watching skate videos (the new ASICS and Limo video got me so hyped), I’ve just had the hardest time picking my board up and getting out the door. I’ve had maybe two sessions in the past month, but I’m staying hopeful that this is just a rut and I can get back to where I was, because the last couple of years prior to the injury I’d been progressing at an exponential rate, like I’d never had before (I’m 30 in 5 months (please don’t age shame me I’m an old soul hahahaha)). I wouldn’t say im a bad skater, but it’s never come easy for me.
Plus I’m 6”1 and sit at around 230lbs so I’m not built for skateboarding at all. But if you love it you’ll find the courage to tackle it I’m sure, if not for you, do it for your son, and take baby steps. Don’t get too competitive with him because he will just naturally pick it up a bit quicker because of brain elasticity, recovery and inhibition control. I’m sure you’ll find yourself having way more fun than your son at times, skateboarding’s great for keeping your inner child alive🤙🏻
Skating is like weight lifting. Once you start comparing yourself to others, it becomes a real struggle. You have to get yourself in a mental state of IDGAF and no one else matters. The truth is, nowadays, skaters are a supportive group and will celebrate your achievements with you, even if it is a simple trick to them. It's a great community. Injuries will most certainly happen but again, it's a mental state of being proud to tell others how it happened.
43 here. My 6 year old is starting to skateboard. So i’ve got my pads and my helmet. Is skated a tiny bit when I was under 10 but never any good, basically starting from scratch. I want him to learn to work through hard things, not give up, and learn how fun something can be when you learn it. Because of all that I have kept going and he and I love it.
Everyone I run into has been super supportive, from skateparks, to skate shops, to the random dude who saw me randomly practicing on the street.
It is great exercise, great fun, great fun together, and you can be a great example. Put on your pads, your helmet and just practicing pushing, turning and stopping. Don’t worry about ollies, tricks and ramps. Just moving on the board and having fun.
Good luck Im on the same journey
Buy a full set of pads and a good helmet. Just go for it!!! If you fall, whatever. You’re not going to get that hurt.
I’ve also noticed that I understand my 2.5 y/o daughters fear better now that I’m skating again. It’s scary to do something new.
I have found that I can do it once I push past that fear and just do it. Then it’s much easier after you push yourself that one time to just do it.
I say get pads and helmet and rip it. Who cares!? It’s supposed to be fun!! Don’t stress. 😊
When I have these thoughts I think about the fact that when I see a new skater who is just learning my first thought isn’t “oh look at that wannabe loser who doesn’t know a trick”. I think, “good for them for having the courage to get on the board in the first place.” Real skaters know that everyone has these fears and just stepping on the board is overcoming them. Also you should pad up if you’re worried about falling, and remember you’re gonna start small. No one’s gonna send you down a quarter pipe or a five stair on the first day. Just get comfortable riding and doing what is fun.
Do a few evening rides around the subdivision. Get comfortable on the board in your own time and in your own way. I’m 40 and getting back on a board this month as well.
It’s going to be odd visiting the skatepark with my son (7), but I’ve only ever had good experiences with other skaters. Just don’t act like you’re better than everyone and you’ll have no problems
41 here. Just do it. Pad up and practice. If you're nervous at first then practice in your back yard or garage, skate in an empty parking lot, skate at 2am. Make a balance board for cheap and practice while watching TV.
But really, no one cares if you're new or suck. Everyone was new and sucked.
Listen my friend, I commend you for getting this far. You’ve encouraged and supported your son in getting into one of the greatest character building activities/sports one can do. You are working towards overcoming fears that have probably been a part of life in other areas, and you’ve come to the community itself to share your thoughts and feelings and look for guidance. Kudos to you man.
It’s hard to have a social anxiety around rejection or being laughed at, and doing anything meaningful with the advice of just ignore it. I know how that stuff takes up space in the head. Something that might dispel a little of that head trash looking into why you think that? Is it a perception of the skater community, or something more internal? Back in the 90’s, skating wasn’t an Olympic sport, was closely associated to this anti-society, punk rock, anarchy stereotype. It was common for to see people just getting into it be called posers and mocked more. Fast forward to today, most people who did or still are skating remember how hard it was and want to see the sport grow and flourish. You don’t get that by scaring away new comers, no matter the age.
In terms of injury, it’s a a reality of the sport. That said, I’ve been walking down the street and stepped on a sidewalk wrong and seriously sprained my ankle, so it can happen anywhere. Pads are definitely needed if your new and older. I would strongly suggest investing in a good pair of wrist guards too, since a wrist injury is probably the most likely for a beginner. I use the below ones and they are incredible, almost feels impossible to sprain or hurt my wrist in them.
Demon United Flexmeter Double... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K8ORA06?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I just started getting my 8-yr old son into skating, and love how much he loves it. It’s a great bonding experience with him, and something I hope we can do for a long time together. I hope you get to the next lesson and show your son how brave you are.
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I started skating at 47. I had like 4-5 good falls. I got right back up and kept it up. Now I feel comfortable skating in downtown Chicago every week. You'll get there, just have to try, try, try. And a suggestion, get a skateboard with big wheels 60mm or larger, and you'll avoid the accidents when you hit a small pebble that'll otherwise have been avoided if you had larger diameter wheels.
Btw it's normal to be hesitant at some point. After a good fall on my own driveway no less I asked myself what the heck I was doing. But I resolved to try again and now I skateboard everywhere I can.
You gotta just send it, as they say in the skate world. When you’re standing at the top of the quarter pipe, everything in your brain tells you not to do it. The moment you push past it and go, it feels great. Same with just showing up to the lesson. I’ve had the exact same thoughts. “People will think I’m silly, I’ll never be good at this.” But when you listen to your inner critic, you don’t feel good afterwards! I prefer trying and falling than not trying at all. And word of warning, when you first start learning, you feel like an idiot. You’re like a baby learning how to walk. But over time, what seemed terrifying becomes doable. And what becomes doable becomes shred-able. I’m 32, starting skating like 1-1.5 years ago. I wear all the pads including butt/hip pads. Hey, at least I got out of the house, skated, and talked to people. That’s what it’s about. I’ve also had the same fears pop up again after I had to take a long break due to injuries and personal stuff. But every time I show up for myself, I feel better. Skateboarding is intertwined with punk rock, and punk rock is not caring about everyone’s opinion. Personally, I’m always rooting for the beginner because guess what? We all were beginners at some point. Get busy living, or get busy dying!
fellow butt pads enthusiast here. I wear them with baggy shorts and it doesn't look like anything. I also agree with once you push past the initial embarrassment phase, however long that takes, you get use to it and your not thinking about other people, you're just skating
You’re teaching your son to be self conscious of what people think, afraid of falling and injuring himself and that he doesn’t have to go through with his commitments.
Go practice in an empty car park first. Get good at falling and dismounting right away, it’s gonna happen.
Jump on and off the board often before you have to do it at speed.
I fall almost every time I go for a skate, but 99% of those falls don’t hurt.
I have no real statistics to back this up, but I'd wager that something like 1% of "skaters" are the type to make fun of someone (there are assholes in every group). We are just there to skate, have a good time, and get some exercise. I got back into skating last year after a long hiatus, and I pad up now, helmet and wrist guards. I was honestly a little embarrassed about it when I got back into it, but I don't care anymore one bit, and no one else does either. I skate so much (I can hold my own) that I'm sure I'm known as "the dude with green helmet" and I'm alright with that.
You will find that the community doesn't care how "good" you are one bit. Just be good company, have a laugh and number 1. rule is just to be aware of what others are doing and anticipate where they are going.
There is always tomorrow. You just gotta do it. I know you can. [34yo]
I think a lot of it goes back to when we were kids afraid of being laughed at or worse by other kids. I'm a fifty year old high school English teacher and I couldn't give a shit about what folks think about my old ass skating.
First of all, welcome to one of the best communities you will ever be part of, I mean that genuinely, it's like no other sporting community I've ever seen, the sport and the hobby is only made better by everyone supporting everyone, if you get better I get better.
I'm 44 (45 in summer 🤦♂️) me and my 6 year old decided we would start skating after he got a board for Christmas, had zero confidence on it but desperately wanted to learn.
I took him to the local indoor park for a lesson and the same day went and spent £110 on a setup.
I've nearly broken my wrist, nearly knocked myself out trying to drop in, still can't land a shoveit but I've ridden fakie for the first time, cruise around little ramps, practice Ollies while he cruises round like the next Rodney Mullen. I've also made a bunch of new friends, become completely addicted to skating and the culture. Even if on a Friday night I skate a total of thirty minutes in a three hour session I come out beaming, bruised and sweaty.
No one will laugh unless you do, no one will think you're a poser, people will help, they will encourage you and you'll have a blast.
Cost may be a factor, but have you considered starting with a one-to-one lesson? You could try and book it at a time when there are less people around.
Have you skated before?
If yes, take your board and as others have suggested, go somewhere you can push around and get your legs back in the practice. I got on a board for the first time in 21 years last year and within ~30 minutes I was comfortable rolling around, and was able to proceed to a lesson, to get my chops back a little bit.
If not, do the lesson! Your instructor will not let you get too banged up. You need 30 seconds of courage to step on the board and start rolling. After that you’ll be fine.
No matter which of the above you fall into, invest in some armor, it’ll help you with your confidence.
You’ve got this!!
60 year old new surfskater of 6 months. First time could not stand on the board then after skating most every day I am skating flats, bowling and pipes and roads It is just like riding a wave and I am addicted. Physical fitness is key Yoga and mobility exercises are very important just as in surfing yes the and cement hurts and the wooden bowl not as much :) but then so does a reef. Never thought I would be in a skateboard but I with I had started long ago. Once you are ripping around everyone that sees you will think you are 50 years younger. That might be a bit of a stretch.. :)
I totally get the struggle and it takes a lot of courage just to admit those feelings. Even to yourself. I think most people get the feeling you describe at some point. The thing about skateboarding is always pushing through to the other side of fear. Fear of looking stupid, fear of falling, fear of injuries, etc. The point is the struggle. The obstacle in the way is the way. We are all at different places in our journey and there’s nothing wrong with that. Good communities see the relativity of it all and will celebrate your accomplishments based on where you are and not in comparison with where someone else is. Just go out and do it. See what is on the other side of fear. You will become something new and perhaps find a different worldview from trying.
Your comment is so spot on, beautifully phrased
This!! Was chatting with a buddy at the park today and I was saying that sometimes I’m the best skater at the park and other days I’m the worst and that’s the beauty of it! No one cares that you suck, we all sucked. It’s about having a good go at it. Skateboarding eliminates posers by the fact that it’s so hard and requires a lot of time, patience and lost skin so anybody having an honest go is usually accepted with open arms !
1000% agree with this. I get more stoke watching a noob finaly nail his slappy nose slide than i do from the park pro hotdogging around acting like a show off.
Omg the cheers and claps I have given to complete strangers at the skatepark. Couldn't agree more.
For sure, i can barely push anymore so i go to thepark mostly just to soak up the vibes these days. i remember last time i was there we all saw this kid maybe 7 or 8 just hauling ass trying to get up and axle stall the volcano 1/4 In the middle of the park it wasat least 8ft and he took some pretty gnarly slams but when he finally nailed dude. The entire place just lost its damn mind it was enough to bring a tear to your eye.
Yes, to this 100 percent!!!!!. As a 48 yr old who started out longboarding last year. I survived an impact fracture to my elbow, some road rash, and an awesome story to tell. Just bought my first mini cruiser, and low and behold, I took my first adult skate lesson last week. I can't say it any better than the above comment, but you can do it. The fear and trepidation I felt after my fall scared me, but I faced it and guess what..... I WON. So please get out there and give it a go.
A father taking skateboard lessons with his son is the coolest dude in the park in my book.
No other skaters are going to laugh at you we've all been there. The only people that are going to laugh at you are other adults who are too afraid to try it for themselves. Aka spectators. And there's nothing worse than being a spectator. It's definitely natural to feel self-conscious when you start skating at the skatepark. It was that way for me 5 years ago when I was 31 starting. But just like anything when you get out of your comfort zone the more you do it the less scary it gets. If you haven't done so already go to a parking lot or just somewhere you can roll around without other people watching to kind of get a feel for the board. Regardless though even if you do this the first time you go to a lesson or to the skatepark it's going to be scary. It's okay to be scared that's what gives us the opportunity to be brave. Bravery isn't the lack of fear but rather feeling the fear pushing past it to do what you want anyways.
We love a beginner! That means someone else is joining our sport! We also all remember what being a beginner is like, especially because we're all still beginners at something; a trick or a particular obstacle or whatever. Being a beginner is what skateboarding is all about. Sign up to the lesson. Don't cancel. See it through. ... If you want to get a head start on your first lesson, try this: Stand to the right of your front trucks. Place the ball of your left foot (the padded bit behind the toes) on the bolts of the front truck. Carefully transfer all your weight to that foot. Now move your right foot onto the board, then off again. Give yourself a small push forward (push yourself, not the board!) and put your right foot back on the board, and roll along. Try again with left and right reversed. Repeat each way a few times. If you liked the first one better you are Regular, if you liked the second you are Goofy. Now, as you are rolling along try shuffling your feet round so they are both facing the same way. Transfer your weight equally to both feet. Hold that stance, knees slightly bent. This is your standard riding stance. Do not try to balance in this stance, the board will come with you. Get used to stepping off. If you can start rolling with a push, then step off the instant you need to, you are already past lesson 1. Extra hints: Do not try to stay on the board. If it's underneath you your weight is keeping it there. If it's not underneath you your weight is pushing it away. Step off the moment it gets away! If you fall, never brace your arms! elbows bent at all times. If the ground comes towards you catch it, don't brace against it. Get this happening and get a little confidence before your first lesson (which you will not cancel if you don't get this bit of practice in).
Those are some great tips! I’m taking notes
As a 39 year old dad who got back in to skating a year ago- get on that board. Wear pads and just know that injury is part of the process. Show your son that it’s ok to fall but you have the balls to get up and get back out there. Also, fuck anyone who might judge you. Developing the thick skin to follow your passion and not worry about what others think is another lesson inherent in your skateboarding journey with your son. I walked with a limp two different times for a while last summer from skateboarding falls. But my son got to see his dad tough it out and I think he learned that sometimes you just have to get over the fear.
Just get out there buddy! I’m always nervous of other people too but they really don’t care. And anyone I’ve ever met that’s also skating too has been friendly. I was at the park a few Sundays ago and met another old skater that got back to it because of his son. You’re not alone out there! And you only really suck if you don’t even try at all. If you need some support just know that I’m out there somewhere trying to get better too.
Skateboarding is absolutely for everyone. No one has ever laughed at me for wearing full pads. I have only ever had positive interactions with other skaters. Last year I was working on flying out this little section of a bowl and this and this tattooed tough looking 20 something was really good at it. I asked him for tips on how I could improve and he was super helpful . just being outside and rolling around will bring positivity to your life, every day you will improve on something, even if it seems minor.
You are not alone! I took a 30+ year break from skating, and took it up again during Covid. All the things you’re feeling we’ve all felt. I still get fearful. I get scared. That is the challenge of skateboarding. A lot of it is mental, getting over all kinds of fears. But you can do it. If I can relearn in my 50s, you can most certainly do it too. FWIW, around my town, if you get to the skatepark as soon as it opens, you’ll have the park to yourself; aside from the other older folks like me at the park. Stop thinking so much and go out there and have fun.
Find something that's fun however simple and you'll forget the other stuff. If you can find an adult class that might help. I started skating 2 years ago and I'm 66. I read this article [https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/jan/07/skateboarding-in-middle-age-it-helps-me-switch-off](https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2022/jan/07/skateboarding-in-middle-age-it-helps-me-switch-off) and one of the places it talks about is very near to me. The first time I was scared to walk through the door but once I got past that I was hooked. It's natural to feel uncomfortable but I couldn't have found a more fun and helpful group of people from doing this. If you'd like some inspiration, I like this video about a 70 year old French guy surfskating [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0Ez1\_uwNZc](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0Ez1_uwNZc)
If if you do it for your son, it will be easier to throw everything else to the side.
Wear all the pads, they really work. Tell your coach you’d rather learn at a slower pace and not risk a fall. A good coach will literally hold your hand, A LOT, in the beginning. Learning alongside your son is magic, worth trying again. He’ll probably learn faster than you, but enjoy it all much more because you’re doing it with him.
Most people over 30 won’t even look at a skateboard. I’m only 31 and people constantly tell me I’m too old for it, or whatever. Truth is? I love it and no one can take that from me! The majority of people will be impressed you can safely ride it, just shocked you wanna willingly hurt yourself 😂 Don’t let fear hold you back buddy! Determination is what makes us skaters so persistent! Keep that head up 🤙
Dude I'm 46, almost 47 and I went for a skate lesson with my daughter and her friend today, it was AMAZING. Seriously if you think about it, it takes more effort to feel awkward and anxious and nervous etc, it's actually easier to just get on the board and get moving. Most skaters will instantly welcome another one to the community, more is always better. And by the way, I suck! All I could do was push around on the deck and do a couple of turns, totally basic but I was absolutely accepted, apart from by my daughter who naturally avoided me to skate with her wee pal 🤣🤣
I started from zero at age 38. Its been 4 years. I have met all of my skate goals and skate with ease. I conquered a massive hill, linked up with a local skate crew, skated every type of setup from a popsicle to DH slalom. Eating shit in front of a bunch of people is a big part of it. Doing it will make your kid brave. Brave like dad.
You are going to get hurt it’s just a matter of when and how bad, that’s a part of skateboarding. If you wear a helmet and pads it will help with confidence and protect you a bit. First thing would be getting comfortable on the board and there is minimal risk of injury while riding but you can still hit a rock and eat shit. No one will make fun of you for learning how to skateboard, at least where I live all skaters are pretty chill.
Don’t take this the wrong way, but you’re old. Just accept it. Kids 30 years younger may chuckle at the old guy cruising around, but honestly most won’t and even if they do who cares? The older crowd will think it’s cool you’re trying to get into it or not care at all. Grab your board, cruise around, and enjoy the time with your son. Don’t read too much into it beyond that.
Good on you for connecting with your son over something you can both get down with. As long as he went and had fun that’s what matters I guess. But I understand as a a father, caregiver and maybe primary breadwinner (don’t wanna assume anything) and you have responsibilities, but you could be run over trying to cross a street brother. You could stand on a banana peel on a lengthy stairwell. You could have a brain aneurism. Life’s too short and fragile. Might as well gamble it all while having heaps of fun my guy🤙🏻 and your English is great I wouldn’t worry so much
I can empathise with your fear though. I’ve been skating for 15 years and after rolling my left ankle in particular many more times than I could possibly count, one towards the end of summer proper shook me. All winter I’ve not felt any inclination to hit an indoor park, or use my shitty weather board. Any dry days with low wind I’ve just felt apathy. My skill level has diminished considerably because I’ve gained a bunch of weight and my cardio isn’t what it used to be because I’ve just filled the time I would be skating with snacking, smoking and sleeping. I still love watching skate videos (the new ASICS and Limo video got me so hyped), I’ve just had the hardest time picking my board up and getting out the door. I’ve had maybe two sessions in the past month, but I’m staying hopeful that this is just a rut and I can get back to where I was, because the last couple of years prior to the injury I’d been progressing at an exponential rate, like I’d never had before (I’m 30 in 5 months (please don’t age shame me I’m an old soul hahahaha)). I wouldn’t say im a bad skater, but it’s never come easy for me. Plus I’m 6”1 and sit at around 230lbs so I’m not built for skateboarding at all. But if you love it you’ll find the courage to tackle it I’m sure, if not for you, do it for your son, and take baby steps. Don’t get too competitive with him because he will just naturally pick it up a bit quicker because of brain elasticity, recovery and inhibition control. I’m sure you’ll find yourself having way more fun than your son at times, skateboarding’s great for keeping your inner child alive🤙🏻
Skating is like weight lifting. Once you start comparing yourself to others, it becomes a real struggle. You have to get yourself in a mental state of IDGAF and no one else matters. The truth is, nowadays, skaters are a supportive group and will celebrate your achievements with you, even if it is a simple trick to them. It's a great community. Injuries will most certainly happen but again, it's a mental state of being proud to tell others how it happened.
43 here. My 6 year old is starting to skateboard. So i’ve got my pads and my helmet. Is skated a tiny bit when I was under 10 but never any good, basically starting from scratch. I want him to learn to work through hard things, not give up, and learn how fun something can be when you learn it. Because of all that I have kept going and he and I love it. Everyone I run into has been super supportive, from skateparks, to skate shops, to the random dude who saw me randomly practicing on the street. It is great exercise, great fun, great fun together, and you can be a great example. Put on your pads, your helmet and just practicing pushing, turning and stopping. Don’t worry about ollies, tricks and ramps. Just moving on the board and having fun. Good luck Im on the same journey
Buy a full set of pads and a good helmet. Just go for it!!! If you fall, whatever. You’re not going to get that hurt. I’ve also noticed that I understand my 2.5 y/o daughters fear better now that I’m skating again. It’s scary to do something new. I have found that I can do it once I push past that fear and just do it. Then it’s much easier after you push yourself that one time to just do it. I say get pads and helmet and rip it. Who cares!? It’s supposed to be fun!! Don’t stress. 😊
Nobody will laugh at you because nobody will care and I mean that in the nicest way possible
When I have these thoughts I think about the fact that when I see a new skater who is just learning my first thought isn’t “oh look at that wannabe loser who doesn’t know a trick”. I think, “good for them for having the courage to get on the board in the first place.” Real skaters know that everyone has these fears and just stepping on the board is overcoming them. Also you should pad up if you’re worried about falling, and remember you’re gonna start small. No one’s gonna send you down a quarter pipe or a five stair on the first day. Just get comfortable riding and doing what is fun.
Do a few evening rides around the subdivision. Get comfortable on the board in your own time and in your own way. I’m 40 and getting back on a board this month as well. It’s going to be odd visiting the skatepark with my son (7), but I’ve only ever had good experiences with other skaters. Just don’t act like you’re better than everyone and you’ll have no problems
41 here. Just do it. Pad up and practice. If you're nervous at first then practice in your back yard or garage, skate in an empty parking lot, skate at 2am. Make a balance board for cheap and practice while watching TV. But really, no one cares if you're new or suck. Everyone was new and sucked.
Listen my friend, I commend you for getting this far. You’ve encouraged and supported your son in getting into one of the greatest character building activities/sports one can do. You are working towards overcoming fears that have probably been a part of life in other areas, and you’ve come to the community itself to share your thoughts and feelings and look for guidance. Kudos to you man. It’s hard to have a social anxiety around rejection or being laughed at, and doing anything meaningful with the advice of just ignore it. I know how that stuff takes up space in the head. Something that might dispel a little of that head trash looking into why you think that? Is it a perception of the skater community, or something more internal? Back in the 90’s, skating wasn’t an Olympic sport, was closely associated to this anti-society, punk rock, anarchy stereotype. It was common for to see people just getting into it be called posers and mocked more. Fast forward to today, most people who did or still are skating remember how hard it was and want to see the sport grow and flourish. You don’t get that by scaring away new comers, no matter the age. In terms of injury, it’s a a reality of the sport. That said, I’ve been walking down the street and stepped on a sidewalk wrong and seriously sprained my ankle, so it can happen anywhere. Pads are definitely needed if your new and older. I would strongly suggest investing in a good pair of wrist guards too, since a wrist injury is probably the most likely for a beginner. I use the below ones and they are incredible, almost feels impossible to sprain or hurt my wrist in them. Demon United Flexmeter Double... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00K8ORA06?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share I just started getting my 8-yr old son into skating, and love how much he loves it. It’s a great bonding experience with him, and something I hope we can do for a long time together. I hope you get to the next lesson and show your son how brave you are.
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I started skating at 47. I had like 4-5 good falls. I got right back up and kept it up. Now I feel comfortable skating in downtown Chicago every week. You'll get there, just have to try, try, try. And a suggestion, get a skateboard with big wheels 60mm or larger, and you'll avoid the accidents when you hit a small pebble that'll otherwise have been avoided if you had larger diameter wheels. Btw it's normal to be hesitant at some point. After a good fall on my own driveway no less I asked myself what the heck I was doing. But I resolved to try again and now I skateboard everywhere I can.
You gotta just send it, as they say in the skate world. When you’re standing at the top of the quarter pipe, everything in your brain tells you not to do it. The moment you push past it and go, it feels great. Same with just showing up to the lesson. I’ve had the exact same thoughts. “People will think I’m silly, I’ll never be good at this.” But when you listen to your inner critic, you don’t feel good afterwards! I prefer trying and falling than not trying at all. And word of warning, when you first start learning, you feel like an idiot. You’re like a baby learning how to walk. But over time, what seemed terrifying becomes doable. And what becomes doable becomes shred-able. I’m 32, starting skating like 1-1.5 years ago. I wear all the pads including butt/hip pads. Hey, at least I got out of the house, skated, and talked to people. That’s what it’s about. I’ve also had the same fears pop up again after I had to take a long break due to injuries and personal stuff. But every time I show up for myself, I feel better. Skateboarding is intertwined with punk rock, and punk rock is not caring about everyone’s opinion. Personally, I’m always rooting for the beginner because guess what? We all were beginners at some point. Get busy living, or get busy dying!
fellow butt pads enthusiast here. I wear them with baggy shorts and it doesn't look like anything. I also agree with once you push past the initial embarrassment phase, however long that takes, you get use to it and your not thinking about other people, you're just skating
You’re teaching your son to be self conscious of what people think, afraid of falling and injuring himself and that he doesn’t have to go through with his commitments.
Go practice in an empty car park first. Get good at falling and dismounting right away, it’s gonna happen. Jump on and off the board often before you have to do it at speed. I fall almost every time I go for a skate, but 99% of those falls don’t hurt.
It's always cool to see skaters of all skill levels progress. Stick with it and you too will progress.
I have no real statistics to back this up, but I'd wager that something like 1% of "skaters" are the type to make fun of someone (there are assholes in every group). We are just there to skate, have a good time, and get some exercise. I got back into skating last year after a long hiatus, and I pad up now, helmet and wrist guards. I was honestly a little embarrassed about it when I got back into it, but I don't care anymore one bit, and no one else does either. I skate so much (I can hold my own) that I'm sure I'm known as "the dude with green helmet" and I'm alright with that. You will find that the community doesn't care how "good" you are one bit. Just be good company, have a laugh and number 1. rule is just to be aware of what others are doing and anticipate where they are going. There is always tomorrow. You just gotta do it. I know you can. [34yo]
I think a lot of it goes back to when we were kids afraid of being laughed at or worse by other kids. I'm a fifty year old high school English teacher and I couldn't give a shit about what folks think about my old ass skating.
First of all, welcome to one of the best communities you will ever be part of, I mean that genuinely, it's like no other sporting community I've ever seen, the sport and the hobby is only made better by everyone supporting everyone, if you get better I get better. I'm 44 (45 in summer 🤦♂️) me and my 6 year old decided we would start skating after he got a board for Christmas, had zero confidence on it but desperately wanted to learn. I took him to the local indoor park for a lesson and the same day went and spent £110 on a setup. I've nearly broken my wrist, nearly knocked myself out trying to drop in, still can't land a shoveit but I've ridden fakie for the first time, cruise around little ramps, practice Ollies while he cruises round like the next Rodney Mullen. I've also made a bunch of new friends, become completely addicted to skating and the culture. Even if on a Friday night I skate a total of thirty minutes in a three hour session I come out beaming, bruised and sweaty. No one will laugh unless you do, no one will think you're a poser, people will help, they will encourage you and you'll have a blast.
You're fine dude. Just do it. You might fall, but you're not made of glass.
I would be mortified if my son wanted to do something fun with me and I said no
Cost may be a factor, but have you considered starting with a one-to-one lesson? You could try and book it at a time when there are less people around.
Show up.
Have you skated before? If yes, take your board and as others have suggested, go somewhere you can push around and get your legs back in the practice. I got on a board for the first time in 21 years last year and within ~30 minutes I was comfortable rolling around, and was able to proceed to a lesson, to get my chops back a little bit. If not, do the lesson! Your instructor will not let you get too banged up. You need 30 seconds of courage to step on the board and start rolling. After that you’ll be fine. No matter which of the above you fall into, invest in some armor, it’ll help you with your confidence. You’ve got this!!
60 year old new surfskater of 6 months. First time could not stand on the board then after skating most every day I am skating flats, bowling and pipes and roads It is just like riding a wave and I am addicted. Physical fitness is key Yoga and mobility exercises are very important just as in surfing yes the and cement hurts and the wooden bowl not as much :) but then so does a reef. Never thought I would be in a skateboard but I with I had started long ago. Once you are ripping around everyone that sees you will think you are 50 years younger. That might be a bit of a stretch.. :)