Beyond Bruises - Skateboarding Safety

When people talk about skateboarding safety, they often refer to the safety gear that every skateboarder should wear. And the safety gear doesn't need any introduction if you're a skateboarder yourself. You know, the helmet, the padding, that sort of stuff. However, there are other aspects in skateboarding safety that most people overlook. And that's what we're going to discuss in this article. So, if you want to be as safe as possible when skateboarding, read on.First thing you need to look out for is the location where you're going to skate. Many skate parks are relatively safe, and so, you can skate in these places without fear of getting injured or hurt. These skate parks are often privately owned, so the owners make sure that people skating in their park will be able to enjoy the activity without any hitch. However, this isn't always the case in public skate parks. Because anyone can typically come into these parks, there's a chance that you're going to meet some unruly skaters there.If you do encounter unruly skaters in a skate park, try to get out while you still can. It's not being a coward, but it's also about learning how to protect yourself when there's an apparent danger to your safety.Choosing a safe skate park is even more important if you're visiting a skate park outside your locality. You're not familiar with the area and the people there, so you need to take extra measures even before you visit the skate park. There are already websites that have a list of skate parks all over the world as well as a review of many of these parks. Check the reviews out first before venturing to these places. Doing so will save you from a lot of trouble.It also pays to check your skateboard regularly. It's no use having the toughest helmet or pads, if you have a faulty skateboard. This is especially important if you use your skateboard often. So, before you venture out on the road or go to your local skate park, check your deck for cracks, make sure your trucks are screwed on just about right, and that your skateboard wheels don't have flat spots. These regular checkups may eat up some of your skateboarding time but they will be worth it in the long run.More than the regular checkups, you also need to change your bearings or clean them regularly. That is because your bearings will accumulate gunk over time, especially if you ride in particularly dusty areas. The gunk may eventually keep your wheels from turning smoothly, so always ensure that you remove them often, or change the bearings altogether if they're already worn out after years of using them.Once again, skateboarding safety is more than just saving yourself from broken bones and bruises. It's also about preparing for the task ahead, that is, riding your skateboard. Always be aware of the place where you're going to be skating, and make sure that your skateboard works well. These are simple tips that will let you go a long way, safely.

Posted in: Skateboarding