Training

How to Train Effectively

Strength Training for Skateboarding

Strength training and skateboarding aren’t two activities that are typically paired together; however, when you combine them, the results are pretty spectacular. While strength training is not necessary to get better at skateboarding, it can help improve your skills and endurance in ways that skateboarding alone cannot. Every skateboarder knows that it takes a decent amount of strength and energy to get off the ground, so the stronger you are, the higher you can jump. Strength training can also increase your endurance, allowing you to skate for longer intervals and minimize injury from muscle fatigue.

Of course, the best way to improve your skateboarding skills is to spend time practicing your moves on the board.

All ages benefit from DPSC training Services

Toddlers can practice their first balancing skills, along with learning their first ollies and shove-its! Teens and and adults love to strengthen their skills, extending their muscle memory and consistency with performing new tricks. All this, while you practice safely in your own home.

Key Muscles Used While Skateboarding

You might not think that skateboarding uses a ton of muscles, but when you break it down, there are quite a few complex movements that use multiple different muscle groups.

Core

Your core muscles play a huge role in stabilizing your body and helping you maintain balance while skateboarding. The muscles that make up your core include your abdominal muscles, hip muscles, and back muscles. If you want a strong core, take a look at this ultimate core workout for beginners.

Quadriceps and Hamstrings

Your quadriceps and hamstrings are used quite a bit while skateboarding. The quadriceps are made up of four different muscles that help you extend your knee and contract your hip joint, which is required anytime you jump. Your hamstrings are also made up of four different muscles that allow you to flex your knee so that you can squat down. These are used anytime you crouch down on your skateboard.

Four Strength Training Exercises for Skateboarding

Effective strength training for skateboarding can help you increase your endurance and maintain your balance and control. The following strength training exercises work vital muscles that are used while skateboarding so you can improve your overall game.

Lateral Leg Raises

For lateral leg raises, you want to stand with your toes facing forward, and knees slightly bent. To start, shift your weight to your right leg. Exhale as you raise your left leg out to the side as far as you can while making sure your pelvis remains stable, then inhale and lower your leg back down. Once you’re done with your repetitions, switch legs. If you find yourself struggling with stability and balance, try holding onto the back of a chair. As your muscles become stronger, your balance will improve.

Box Jumps

You’ll need a sturdy box to jump onto for this exercise. If you don’t have your own equipment, a park bench will work. To start, drop into a proper squat and then exhale as you explode from the ground jumping onto your box or whatever equipment you’re using. Jump back down, landing with good form in the starting squat position. Try to keep your transitions smooth and your landings silent.

Single-Leg Squats

You’ll want a chair or couch when first trying this exercise. Once you have your seat positioned behind you, stand a few inches in front of it with your feet hip-width apart. Shift your weight to your right leg, inhale, and slowly squat down, letting your butt touch the seat behind you. Exhale while you rise back to a standing position, keeping your left leg raised off the ground throughout the entire movement. Complete your repetitions and then switch legs. If this seems too easy, you can try removing the chair or adding weight.

Side Plank

The side plank is an excellent exercise for your core, a primary muscle group used in skateboarding. To begin, lie on your left side with your right foot either stacked on top of your left foot or placed on the floor in front of your left leg. Exhale, contract your core, and raise your hips from the ground, so you’re forming a straight line from head to toe. You can either raise up onto your left elbow or left hand, whichever is more comfortable for you. Make sure that you keep your elbow or hand in line with your shoulders. Hold for 30 seconds or more, and then switch sides.