🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 192 (from laksa074)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa192.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-longboard-instructions-3002393\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-longboard-instructions-3002393\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-longboard-instructions-3002393","crawl_time":1773710880,"first_indexed_time":1558754790,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,liveabout!www,\/how-to-longboard-instructions-3002393 s443","src_root_hash":"4785001253814158592","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Learn How to Skateboard on Longboard in 7 Simple Steps","meta_descriptions":["Learn how to longboard with simple instructions, including how to stand, push, carve, and stop your board."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Using a longboard to skateboard provides stability but the tradeoff is less agility. Learning how to longboard doesn't require much equipment, aside from a longboard, a helmet, pads, and some shoes. But before you begin, you should know the difference between longboarding and shortboarding. \nEach is a type of skateboard with a deck made of wood or composite material and wheels attached using squat T-shaped mounts called trucks. The primary difference, apart from length, is that longboards are used for cruising streets and carving hills, whereas shortboards also are used for jumps, kicks, and tricks on the halfpipe.\nLongboards are typically 42 inches long, though they may be as short as 34 inches for a kid's board or 50 inches for a tall rider. Width varies from 7 to 10 inches, depending on a rider's shoe size, but 8.5 inches is common. Shortboards, by comparison, are usually 30 to 33 inches long and 8 inches wide.\nUnlike shortboards, which usually have a symmetrical head and tail, longboards are available in different shapes for different riding styles. Whatever board you choose, you'll want to buy a good safety helmet and wear \nflat-bottomed shoes\n for stability. \n01\nof 07\nTypes of Longboards\nSigrid Gombert\/Getty Images\nThe longer a longboard is, the more stable it will be. But longer boards are less agile; they don't turn as quickly or as easily as shorter ones. Before you buy a longboard, think about the kind of riding you want to do.\nCruising\n.\n If you're primarily using your board for commuting, you'll want a cruiser or pintail board. Cruisers have a gently pointed nose and slightly rounded tail. The nose on a pintail is more sharply rounded, and its tail tapers to a defined point.\nFreestyling or \nfreeriding\n.  If you're into technical downhill riding or like to use your longboard for dancing (showing off a range of skills), you'll want a dropdown or dropthrough board, both of which have narrow, symmetrical heads and tails with blunt ends. \nDownhill longboarding.\n If you have a need for speed, you'll want a stiff cruiser deck, a topmount, or a speed deck. Speedboards resemble dropthroughs but with asymmetrical heads and tails. Topmounts have symmetrical heads and tails.\nWheels for longboards are wider than for shortboards to allow for a smoother ride and are usually made of urethane. Wheel edges may be square (best for cruising flat surfaces or smooth, straight hills), beveled (good for twisty roads), or rounded (great for carving and sliding).\n02\nof 07\nGoofy or Regular Stance\njanzgrossetkino \/ Getty Images\nYou can use two different kinds of stances when riding a longboard: regular (left foot forward) and\ngoofy\n(right foot forward). The foot that's at the head of the board is your balancing foot. It's the one you'll lean on as you're accelerating or turning. Your rear foot is your kicking foot. It's the one you'll use to propel yourself forward by pushing against the pavement.\nIf you\nskateboard\n, snowboard,\nsurf\n, or wakeboard, then go with the stance you already use. Otherwise, you'll need to figure out which stance is your natural one. To do this, stand at the base of a staircase and take a step up. The foot you extend first will be your back foot on the longboard.\nJust remember that there's no right way to ride a longboard. If a goofy stance is more comfortable than a regular one, then go with what feels best.\n03\nof 07\nFinding Your Footing\nJamie Garbutt \/ Getty Images\nThe next step is to practice your stance, preferably on a smooth, flat surface that's free of traffic. Stand on the center of your board to get a feel for how springy it is. Bend your knees and crouch down, then stand back up. Get used to shuffling and moving your feet along the deck without stepping off. \nFoot placement depends on how you're riding. Most of the time you'll want to keep your feet between the trucks at a little wider than shoulder width, with your front foot pointed diagonally at about a 45-degree angle and your back foot pointed out slightly a few degrees.\nFor bombing hills (longboarding down hills fast), try spreading your feet wider. If you want more speed, try pointing your feet downhill. Remember to put a good amount of weight on the front foot when hill bombing to remain in control.\n04\nof 07\nPushing Off\nvaquey \/ Getty Images\nTake your back foot off of the longboard and put it on the ground. To get moving, simply push off with this foot. You can push a few times if you want to get more speed quickly or just make one big push. Once you get the board moving, put your foot back on the longboard. If it feels more comfortable to push with your front foot, that's fine, too. That technique is called \"pushing Mongo.\"\nOnce you're comfortable with getting yourself moving on a flat surface, practice riding down a hill. Find a slight slope—not a steep drop—and get on your longboard. Don't push the first few times you try; let gravity pull you down. Next, try pushing once and riding down. Increase your speed as you feel comfortable.\n05\nof 07\nStopping on a Longboard\nFatCamera \/ Getty Images\nGetting your longboard going is important, but so is stopping. If you're just learning how to longboard, the easiest method is \nfootbreaking\n(dragging your foot). Take the foot you push with and drag it on the pavement until you come to a gentle stop. Keep the bottom of your foot flat on the ground as you drag it. Once you've practiced this, you can try more advanced means of stopping, like the \nColeman slide\n. \nIf you end up going too fast and getting out of control, you'll probably have to bail by jumping off. Although it sounds reckless, it isn't. The idea is to leap off the board and hit the ground running so that you remain on your feet. The sensation is a little like hopping off a moving sidewalk.  \nTo practice, find a flat area where you can get moving without going too quickly, preferably adjacent to a grassy area you can leap to and not hurt yourself if you stumble. Once you start rolling, just jump off the board and try remaining upright. This will take practice, so wear your pads and go slowly.\n06\nof 07\nSimple Carving and Cruising\nwundervisuals \/ Getty Images\nAfter you've learned how to start and stop your longboard, you need to learn how to turn or carve. Shifting your weight to one side or another as you ride causes the board to turn in the same direction that you lean toward. You can carve on your heel edge or your toe edge, and the deeper you carve, the more extreme of a turn you will make.\nTry carving gently down the slope where you've been practicing. Begin by getting some forward momentum, then gently lean to one side to begin turning. Carving slows you down, so you may need to give yourself a stronger push. Try moderating your speed by carving from side to side as you cruise. Your speed will increase the more you crouch down and your center of gravity is lower.\nBeginners commonly watch their feet as they practice cruising and carving, but you should keep your gaze fixed on the horizon or slightly downhill. Your board goes where your eyes go.\n07\nof 07\nHill Carving On a Longboard\nDaniel Milchev \/ Getty Images\nOnce you're comfortable controlling your\nlongboard\non gentle slopes, you may want to try something more challenging. Longboarding down a hill is exactly like longboarding down a slope, but faster. Stopping is a little trickier, too, because you've built up more speed. But the basic techniques still apply.\nRegardless of whether you're practicing for the first time or have been riding for a while, remember to wear safety gear. At a minimum, this means wearing a helmet. Knee and elbow pads are also a good idea. Above all, watch out for cars, bikes, pedestrians, and other boarders as you ride.","attrs_markdown":"\n\n[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-longboard-instructions-3002393#skip-to-content)\n\nMenu\n\n[Home](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/)\n\n- [Entertainment](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/entertainment-4687948)\n  - [Music](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/music-4688277)\n  - [TV & Film](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/tv-and-film-4688227)\n  - [Performing Arts](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/performing-arts-4688207)\n  - [Visual Arts](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/visual-arts-4688195)\n  - [Fashion & Style](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/fashion-and-style-4145425)\n  - [Love & Romance](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/love-and-romance-4145433)\n  - [Gaming](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/gaming-4842275)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/careers-6504628)\n  - [Career Paths](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/career-paths-6504688)\n  - [Finding a Job](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/finding-a-job-6504741)\n  - [Succeeding at Work](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/succeeding-at-work-6504777)\n  - [Business Ownership](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/business-ownership-6504631)\n- [Activities](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/activities-4688119)\n  - [Sports & Athletics](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/sports-athletics-4688118)\n  - [The Great Outdoors](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/the-great-outdoors-4688002)\n  - [Hobbies](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/hobbies-4688185)\n- [Humor](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/humor-4687973)\n  - [Political Humor](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/political-humor-4687972)\n  - [Web Humor](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/web-humor-4687964)\n  - [Paranormal & Ghosts](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/paranormal-4687959)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/about-us-5112071)\n\nSearch\n\n- Activities\n  - [Sports & Athletics](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/sports-athletics-4688118)\n  - [The Great Outdoors](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/the-great-outdoors-4688002)\n  - [Hobbies](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/hobbies-4688185)\n- Humor\n  - [Political Humor](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/political-humor-4687972)\n  - [Web Humor](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/web-humor-4687964)\n  - [Paranormal & Ghosts](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/paranormal-4687959)\n- Entertainment\n  - [Music](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/music-4688277)\n  - [TV & Film](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/tv-and-film-4688227)\n  - [Performing Arts](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/performing-arts-4688207)\n  - [Visual Arts](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/visual-arts-4688195)\n  - [Fashion & Style](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/fashion-and-style-4145425)\n  - [Love & Romance](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/love-and-romance-4145433)\n  - [Gaming](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/gaming-4842275)\n- Careers\n  - [Career Paths](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/career-paths-6504688)\n  - [Finding a Job](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/finding-a-job-6504741)\n  - [Succeeding at Work](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/succeeding-at-work-6504777)\n  - [Business Ownership](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/business-ownership-6504631)\n- - [About Us](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/about-us-5112071)\n  - [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/about-us-5112071#toc-contact-us)\n  - [Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/about-us-5112071#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n  - [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n\n- [Activities](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/activities-4688119)\n- [Sports & Athletics](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/sports-athletics-4688118)\n- [Skateboarding](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboarding-4688050)\n- [Tutorials](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboarding-tutorials-4688048)\n# Learn How to Skateboard on Longboard in 7 Simple Steps\n\n![Behind view of long boarder on mountain road](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/UrtfPRNpDAlfBtQVSh4RQ57ImbM=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/behind-view-of-long-boarder-on-mountain-road-176942914-59dd0835aad52b0010234755.jpg)\n\n![Behind view of long boarder on mountain road](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/UrtfPRNpDAlfBtQVSh4RQ57ImbM=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/behind-view-of-long-boarder-on-mountain-road-176942914-59dd0835aad52b0010234755.jpg)\n\nConnor Walberg \/ Getty Images\n\n[![Sports](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/_rvEy2x9lO5eyBaasYG8AW2egs4=\/150x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/Activities2x-92fcb82fb6c74b74a575dac1ca2c56e3.png)](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/sports-athletics-4688118)\n\n[Sports & Athletics](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/sports-athletics-4688118)\n\n- [Skateboarding](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboarding-4688050)\n  - [Tutorials](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboarding-tutorials-4688048)\n  - [Basics](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboarding-basics-4688049)\n  - [Famous Skaters](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/famous-skaters-4688046)\n- [Baseball](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/baseball-4688117)\n- [Bicycling](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/bicycling-4688107)\n- [Billiards](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/billiards-4688102)\n- [Bodybuilding](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/bodybuilding-4688096)\n- [Bowling](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/bowling-4688093)\n- [Boxing](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/boxing-4688090)\n- [Car Racing](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/car-racing-4688089)\n- [Cheerleading](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/cheerleading-4688088)\n- [Extreme Sports](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/extreme-sports-4688085)\n- [Football](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/football-4688082)\n- [Golf](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/golf-4688076)\n- [Gymnastics](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/gymnastics-4688067)\n- [Ice Hockey](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/ice-hockey-4688058)\n- [Martial Arts](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/martial-arts-4688056)\n- [Professional Wrestling](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/professional-wrestling-4688053)\n- [Skating](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skating-4688045)\n- [Paintball](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/paintball-4688006)\n- [Soccer](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/soccer-4688035)\n- [Swimming & Diving](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/swimming-4688030)\n- [Table Tennis](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/table-tennis-4688022)\n- [Tennis](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/tennis-4688016)\n- [Track & Field](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/track-and-field-4688012)\n- [Volleyball](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/volleyball-4688008)\n- [Other Activities](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/other-activities-4688005)\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/sports-athletics-4688118)\n\nBy [Steve Cave](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/steve-cave-3002036)\n\nUpdated on 09\/28\/18\n\nUsing a longboard to skateboard provides stability but the tradeoff is less agility. Learning how to longboard doesn't require much equipment, aside from a longboard, a helmet, pads, and some shoes. But before you begin, you should know the difference between longboarding and shortboarding.\n\nEach is a type of skateboard with a deck made of wood or composite material and wheels attached using squat T-shaped mounts called trucks. The primary difference, apart from length, is that longboards are used for cruising streets and carving hills, whereas shortboards also are used for jumps, kicks, and tricks on the halfpipe.\n\nLongboards are typically 42 inches long, though they may be as short as 34 inches for a kid's board or 50 inches for a tall rider. Width varies from 7 to 10 inches, depending on a rider's shoe size, but 8.5 inches is common. Shortboards, by comparison, are usually 30 to 33 inches long and 8 inches wide.\n\nUnlike shortboards, which usually have a symmetrical head and tail, longboards are available in different shapes for different riding styles. Whatever board you choose, you'll want to buy a good safety helmet and wear [flat-bottomed shoes](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/is-breaking-skateboards-normal-3002424) for stability.\n\n01\n\nof 07\n## Types of Longboards\n![Young male skateboarder making smartphone call in skateboard shop](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/YwyYT_TLjmp4_QZTk0M-oFYwL8o=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-740532445-5989c1b868e1a20011665203.jpg)\n\nSigrid Gombert\/Getty Images\n\nThe longer a longboard is, the more stable it will be. But longer boards are less agile; they don't turn as quickly or as easily as shorter ones. Before you buy a longboard, think about the kind of riding you want to do.\n\n**[Cruising](https:\/\/www.muirskate.com\/longboard\/cruiser-boards\/all).** If you're primarily using your board for commuting, you'll want a cruiser or pintail board. Cruisers have a gently pointed nose and slightly rounded tail. The nose on a pintail is more sharply rounded, and its tail tapers to a defined point.\n\n[**Freestyling or** **freeriding**](https:\/\/rideasf.com\/lifestyle\/best-freeride-longboards-for-you). If you're into technical downhill riding or like to use your longboard for dancing (showing off a range of skills), you'll want a dropdown or dropthrough board, both of which have narrow, symmetrical heads and tails with blunt ends.\n\n**Downhill longboarding.** If you have a need for speed, you'll want a stiff cruiser deck, a topmount, or a speed deck. Speedboards resemble dropthroughs but with asymmetrical heads and tails. Topmounts have symmetrical heads and tails.\n\nWheels for longboards are wider than for shortboards to allow for a smoother ride and are usually made of urethane. Wheel edges may be square (best for cruising flat surfaces or smooth, straight hills), beveled (good for twisty roads), or rounded (great for carving and sliding).\n\n02\n\nof 07\n## Goofy or Regular Stance\n![Man on longboard]()\n\n![Man on longboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/XKGzosnraxu_Tp2UeUe4M14NyCs=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/man-on-longboard-145676939-5989c1f5054ad900112654cf.jpg)\n\njanzgrossetkino \/ Getty Images\n\nYou can use two different kinds of stances when riding a longboard: regular (left foot forward) and [goofy](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/goofy-meaning-3002686) (right foot forward). The foot that's at the head of the board is your balancing foot. It's the one you'll lean on as you're accelerating or turning. Your rear foot is your kicking foot. It's the one you'll use to propel yourself forward by pushing against the pavement.\n\nIf you [skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/build-pro-grade-skateboard-3002214), snowboard, [surf](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/surfing-4687992), or wakeboard, then go with the stance you already use. Otherwise, you'll need to figure out which stance is your natural one. To do this, stand at the base of a staircase and take a step up. The foot you extend first will be your back foot on the longboard.\n\nJust remember that there's no right way to ride a longboard. If a goofy stance is more comfortable than a regular one, then go with what feels best.\n\n03\n\nof 07\n## Finding Your Footing\n![mature long boarder performing a trick]()\n\n![mature long boarder performing a trick](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/MvtR2xz0-wf7j2HB7fOts-Rn1-Q=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/mature-long-boarder-performing-a-trick-644646881-5989c2490d327a00115684b1.jpg)\n\nJamie Garbutt \/ Getty Images\n\nThe next step is to practice your stance, preferably on a smooth, flat surface that's free of traffic. Stand on the center of your board to get a feel for how springy it is. Bend your knees and crouch down, then stand back up. Get used to shuffling and moving your feet along the deck without stepping off.\n\nFoot placement depends on how you're riding. Most of the time you'll want to keep your feet between the trucks at a little wider than shoulder width, with your front foot pointed diagonally at about a 45-degree angle and your back foot pointed out slightly a few degrees.\n\nFor bombing hills (longboarding down hills fast), try spreading your feet wider. If you want more speed, try pointing your feet downhill. Remember to put a good amount of weight on the front foot when hill bombing to remain in control.\n\n04\n\nof 07\n## Pushing Off\n![Longboard Ride]()\n\n![Longboard Ride](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/RU1kurI4Otg5DmoncVMRclZMunE=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/longboard-ride-113916408-5989c2ce6f53ba00111468c3.jpg)\n\nvaquey \/ Getty Images\n\nTake your back foot off of the longboard and put it on the ground. To get moving, simply push off with this foot. You can push a few times if you want to get more speed quickly or just make one big push. Once you get the board moving, put your foot back on the longboard. If it feels more comfortable to push with your front foot, that's fine, too. That technique is called \"pushing Mongo.\"\n\nOnce you're comfortable with getting yourself moving on a flat surface, practice riding down a hill. Find a slight slope—not a steep drop—and get on your longboard. Don't push the first few times you try; let gravity pull you down. Next, try pushing once and riding down. Increase your speed as you feel comfortable.\n\n05\n\nof 07\n## Stopping on a Longboard\n![Mid adult man longboards down rural highway]()\n\n![Mid adult man longboards down rural highway](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/M_WY8LZqvNmiTkcl6TPXOn0RVL0=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/mid-adult-man-longboards-down-rural-highway-687790786-5989c366aad52b0010fd39fa.jpg)\n\nFatCamera \/ Getty Images\n\nGetting your longboard going is important, but so is stopping. If you're just learning how to longboard, the easiest method is [footbreaking](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboarding-tutorials-4688048) (dragging your foot). Take the foot you push with and drag it on the pavement until you come to a gentle stop. Keep the bottom of your foot flat on the ground as you drag it. Once you've practiced this, you can try more advanced means of stopping, like the [Coleman slide](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboard-powerslide-instructions-3002960).\n\nIf you end up going too fast and getting out of control, you'll probably have to bail by jumping off. Although it sounds reckless, it isn't. The idea is to leap off the board and hit the ground running so that you remain on your feet. The sensation is a little like hopping off a moving sidewalk.\n\nTo practice, find a flat area where you can get moving without going too quickly, preferably adjacent to a grassy area you can leap to and not hurt yourself if you stumble. Once you start rolling, just jump off the board and try remaining upright. This will take practice, so wear your pads and go slowly.\n\n06\n\nof 07\n## Simple Carving and Cruising\n![African American teen girl on a longboard doing downhill racing]()\n\n![African American teen girl on a longboard doing downhill racing](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/lv1bfgpJL6xkaJvWTCoPqKTiFXc=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/african-american-teen-girl-on-a-longboard-doing-downhill-racing-469262742-5989c39ad088c00011a9d5f9.jpg)\n\nwundervisuals \/ Getty Images\n\nAfter you've learned how to start and stop your longboard, you need to learn how to turn or carve. Shifting your weight to one side or another as you ride causes the board to turn in the same direction that you lean toward. You can carve on your heel edge or your toe edge, and the deeper you carve, the more extreme of a turn you will make.\n\nTry carving gently down the slope where you've been practicing. Begin by getting some forward momentum, then gently lean to one side to begin turning. Carving slows you down, so you may need to give yourself a stronger push. Try moderating your speed by carving from side to side as you cruise. Your speed will increase the more you crouch down and your center of gravity is lower.\n\nBeginners commonly watch their feet as they practice cruising and carving, but you should keep your gaze fixed on the horizon or slightly downhill. Your board goes where your eyes go.\n\n07\n\nof 07\n## Hill Carving On a Longboard\n![Friends riding skateboard.]()\n\n![Friends riding skateboard.](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/sjhJjAMZi9t8SAC1fFxNJJlThU4=\/1500x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/friends-riding-skateboard--161311021-5989c44e685fbe001121cc91.jpg)\n\nDaniel Milchev \/ Getty Images\n\nOnce you're comfortable controlling your [longboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/setting-up-a-slide-deck-longboarding-3002233) on gentle slopes, you may want to try something more challenging. Longboarding down a hill is exactly like longboarding down a slope, but faster. Stopping is a little trickier, too, because you've built up more speed. But the basic techniques still apply.\n\nRegardless of whether you're practicing for the first time or have been riding for a while, remember to wear safety gear. At a minimum, this means wearing a helmet. Knee and elbow pads are also a good idea. Above all, watch out for cars, bikes, pedestrians, and other boarders as you ride.\n\n- [![Learning to Kickturn]() ![Learning to Kickturn](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/IwbM_67_6aVwpty84zZvJCjszck=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-518282753-590125ed5f9b5810dc57139d.jpg) Kickturn on a Skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-kickturn-on-skateboard-3002955)\n- [![]() ![](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/kVVtedndTPaArTE12wXlQ_ioGlU=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/fashion_style_liveabout-5994728b03f4020011d9754c.png) Build Your Own Pro Grade Skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/build-pro-grade-skateboard-3002214)\n- [![]() ![](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/kVVtedndTPaArTE12wXlQ_ioGlU=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/fashion_style_liveabout-5994728b03f4020011d9754c.png) How to Replace Skateboard Bearings](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-replace-skateboard-bearings-3002217)\n- [![Young woman doing an ollie at skatepark]() ![Young woman doing an ollie at skatepark](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/nc5aH5WCqp9IqQL2t-4eoChV4GQ=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-641276018-591dc0935f9b58f4c04a8452.jpg) How to Ollie on a Skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-ollie-on-skateboard-3002977)\n- [![]() ![](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/kVVtedndTPaArTE12wXlQ_ioGlU=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/fashion_style_liveabout-5994728b03f4020011d9754c.png) Guide to Replacing Skateboard Trucks](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/replace-skateboard-trucks-instructions-3002219)\n- [![Skateboarder grinding a hand rail.]() ![Skateboarder grinding a hand rail.](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/LqZts--v_BfWaT131LJUrcbxX6c=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-182040542-590a572f3df78c92834b77d9.jpg) How to 50-50 Grind on a Skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-50-50-grind-3002970)\n- [![kickflip]() ![kickflip](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/m9iYZXzLmN_xnJMwrJdt2v36q4Y=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-98877349-5c85ec8946e0fb00010f1101.jpg) How to Kickflip on a Skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-kickflip-on-skateboard-3002975)\n- [![skateboarder legs doing a trick heelflip at skatepark]() ![skateboarder legs doing a trick heelflip at skatepark](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/ZSdAJCGKd0nBFKmvW9w6VmGvg8g=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-477783598-d0170ec7788c4c07b14df9bae670c3f5.jpg) How to Do the Heelflip on a Skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-heelflip-on-skateboard-3002974)\n\n- [![Close up of male fitting bearings in skateboard wheels]() ![Close up of male fitting bearings in skateboard wheels](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/zuV1Amd5tKCmOxTcloVpEnv4fFg=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/close-up-of-male-fitting-bearings-in-skateboard-wheels-698841860-59f1dc856f53ba001152755e.jpg) Safely Remove Your Skateboard Bearings](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-remove-skateboard-bearings-3002218)\n- [![Teenage boy on ramp at skateboard park]() ![Teenage boy on ramp at skateboard park](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/NPd-tnuAzPDsPTZYJHMgfgFbYZQ=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-518337859-5912322b3df78c9283fb1416.jpg) Learn How to Drop In on a Skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-drop-in-on-skateboard-3002972)\n- [![Setting Up a Slide Deck]() ![Setting Up a Slide Deck](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/vKhpod-WIkeSkBwBE1bbaEzW1aE=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/1Slider-56a873c03df78cf7729e24fa.jpg) Setting Up a Slide Deck for Downhill Longboarding](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/setting-up-a-slide-deck-longboarding-3002233)\n- [![People skateboarding in skateboard park]() ![People skateboarding in skateboard park](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/48o06Ha_XKaB160GlNqwe9lshG4=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/people-skateboarding-in-skateboard-park-500064697-5a2579d2842b17001949fde7.jpg) Vert Skateboarding Basics](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/vert-skateboarding-basics-3002985)\n- [![Portrait of teenage girl with skateboard at park]() ![Portrait of teenage girl with skateboard at park](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/PDZl94H-_HIZjAoz4G30I4KXPR0=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/portrait-of-teenage-girl-with-skateboard-at-park-518337489-59b31c259abed50011b68d94.jpg) How to Conquer Fear of Skateboarding](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-conquer-skateboarding-fear-3002967)\n- [![Teenage friends skateboarding on sunny urban street]() ![Teenage friends skateboarding on sunny urban street](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/nUgthUAUXC5owznhia1Lqh1aTqo=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-672147939-b2f8782713cd4fca86bfb4d96b7f7c45.jpg) Basic Skateboarding Tricks](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/basic-skateboard-tricks-3002986)\n- [![Boy skateboarding on road]() ![Boy skateboarding on road](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/4zrVYY4rq3nSAZWsMyyFWW_46gM=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-498187859-591dc9d43df78cf5fa4cbc38.jpg) How to Manual on a Skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-manual-on-skateboard-3002976)\n- [![Shot of a young man skating down a flight of stairs]() ![Shot of a young man skating down a flight of stairs](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/thmb\/q_SioBkVI_vvivAfsLDk9WwbAyc=\/250x0\/filters:no_upscale\\(\\):max_bytes\\(150000\\):strip_icc\\(\\)\/GettyImages-491574414-591dc47d3df78cf5fa4caba2.jpg) How to Ollie Down Stairs](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/how-to-ollie-down-stairs-3002959)\n\n[LiveAbout](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/)\n\n## Follow Us\n\n- [Entertainment](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/entertainment-4687948)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/careers-6504628)\n- [Activities](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/activities-4688119)\n- [Humor](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/humor-4687973)\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/about-us-5112071)\n- [Advertise](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/advertising)\n- [Careers](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/careers)\n- [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-privacy)\n- [Editorial Guidelines](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/about-us-5112071#toc-editorial-guidelines)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/about-us-5112071#toc-contact-us)\n- [Terms of Service](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/brands-termsofservice)\n\nLiveAbout is part of the [People Inc.](https:\/\/www.people.inc\/) publishing family.","attrs_readable_markdown":"Using a longboard to skateboard provides stability but the tradeoff is less agility. Learning how to longboard doesn't require much equipment, aside from a longboard, a helmet, pads, and some shoes. But before you begin, you should know the difference between longboarding and shortboarding.\n\nEach is a type of skateboard with a deck made of wood or composite material and wheels attached using squat T-shaped mounts called trucks. The primary difference, apart from length, is that longboards are used for cruising streets and carving hills, whereas shortboards also are used for jumps, kicks, and tricks on the halfpipe.\n\nLongboards are typically 42 inches long, though they may be as short as 34 inches for a kid's board or 50 inches for a tall rider. Width varies from 7 to 10 inches, depending on a rider's shoe size, but 8.5 inches is common. Shortboards, by comparison, are usually 30 to 33 inches long and 8 inches wide.\n\nUnlike shortboards, which usually have a symmetrical head and tail, longboards are available in different shapes for different riding styles. Whatever board you choose, you'll want to buy a good safety helmet and wear [flat-bottomed shoes](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/is-breaking-skateboards-normal-3002424) for stability.\n\n01\n\nof 07\n## Types of Longboards\nSigrid Gombert\/Getty Images\n\nThe longer a longboard is, the more stable it will be. But longer boards are less agile; they don't turn as quickly or as easily as shorter ones. Before you buy a longboard, think about the kind of riding you want to do.\n\n**[Cruising](https:\/\/www.muirskate.com\/longboard\/cruiser-boards\/all).** If you're primarily using your board for commuting, you'll want a cruiser or pintail board. Cruisers have a gently pointed nose and slightly rounded tail. The nose on a pintail is more sharply rounded, and its tail tapers to a defined point.\n\n[**Freestyling or** **freeriding**](https:\/\/rideasf.com\/lifestyle\/best-freeride-longboards-for-you). If you're into technical downhill riding or like to use your longboard for dancing (showing off a range of skills), you'll want a dropdown or dropthrough board, both of which have narrow, symmetrical heads and tails with blunt ends.\n\n**Downhill longboarding.** If you have a need for speed, you'll want a stiff cruiser deck, a topmount, or a speed deck. Speedboards resemble dropthroughs but with asymmetrical heads and tails. Topmounts have symmetrical heads and tails.\n\nWheels for longboards are wider than for shortboards to allow for a smoother ride and are usually made of urethane. Wheel edges may be square (best for cruising flat surfaces or smooth, straight hills), beveled (good for twisty roads), or rounded (great for carving and sliding).\n\n02\n\nof 07\n## Goofy or Regular Stance\njanzgrossetkino \/ Getty Images\n\nYou can use two different kinds of stances when riding a longboard: regular (left foot forward) and [goofy](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/goofy-meaning-3002686) (right foot forward). The foot that's at the head of the board is your balancing foot. It's the one you'll lean on as you're accelerating or turning. Your rear foot is your kicking foot. It's the one you'll use to propel yourself forward by pushing against the pavement.\n\nIf you [skateboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/build-pro-grade-skateboard-3002214), snowboard, [surf](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/surfing-4687992), or wakeboard, then go with the stance you already use. Otherwise, you'll need to figure out which stance is your natural one. To do this, stand at the base of a staircase and take a step up. The foot you extend first will be your back foot on the longboard.\n\nJust remember that there's no right way to ride a longboard. If a goofy stance is more comfortable than a regular one, then go with what feels best.\n\n03\n\nof 07\n## Finding Your Footing\nJamie Garbutt \/ Getty Images\n\nThe next step is to practice your stance, preferably on a smooth, flat surface that's free of traffic. Stand on the center of your board to get a feel for how springy it is. Bend your knees and crouch down, then stand back up. Get used to shuffling and moving your feet along the deck without stepping off.\n\nFoot placement depends on how you're riding. Most of the time you'll want to keep your feet between the trucks at a little wider than shoulder width, with your front foot pointed diagonally at about a 45-degree angle and your back foot pointed out slightly a few degrees.\n\nFor bombing hills (longboarding down hills fast), try spreading your feet wider. If you want more speed, try pointing your feet downhill. Remember to put a good amount of weight on the front foot when hill bombing to remain in control.\n\n04\n\nof 07\n## Pushing Off\nvaquey \/ Getty Images\n\nTake your back foot off of the longboard and put it on the ground. To get moving, simply push off with this foot. You can push a few times if you want to get more speed quickly or just make one big push. Once you get the board moving, put your foot back on the longboard. If it feels more comfortable to push with your front foot, that's fine, too. That technique is called \"pushing Mongo.\"\n\nOnce you're comfortable with getting yourself moving on a flat surface, practice riding down a hill. Find a slight slope—not a steep drop—and get on your longboard. Don't push the first few times you try; let gravity pull you down. Next, try pushing once and riding down. Increase your speed as you feel comfortable.\n\n05\n\nof 07\n## Stopping on a Longboard\nFatCamera \/ Getty Images\n\nGetting your longboard going is important, but so is stopping. If you're just learning how to longboard, the easiest method is [footbreaking](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboarding-tutorials-4688048) (dragging your foot). Take the foot you push with and drag it on the pavement until you come to a gentle stop. Keep the bottom of your foot flat on the ground as you drag it. Once you've practiced this, you can try more advanced means of stopping, like the [Coleman slide](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/skateboard-powerslide-instructions-3002960).\n\nIf you end up going too fast and getting out of control, you'll probably have to bail by jumping off. Although it sounds reckless, it isn't. The idea is to leap off the board and hit the ground running so that you remain on your feet. The sensation is a little like hopping off a moving sidewalk.\n\nTo practice, find a flat area where you can get moving without going too quickly, preferably adjacent to a grassy area you can leap to and not hurt yourself if you stumble. Once you start rolling, just jump off the board and try remaining upright. This will take practice, so wear your pads and go slowly.\n\n06\n\nof 07\n## Simple Carving and Cruising\nwundervisuals \/ Getty Images\n\nAfter you've learned how to start and stop your longboard, you need to learn how to turn or carve. Shifting your weight to one side or another as you ride causes the board to turn in the same direction that you lean toward. You can carve on your heel edge or your toe edge, and the deeper you carve, the more extreme of a turn you will make.\n\nTry carving gently down the slope where you've been practicing. Begin by getting some forward momentum, then gently lean to one side to begin turning. Carving slows you down, so you may need to give yourself a stronger push. Try moderating your speed by carving from side to side as you cruise. Your speed will increase the more you crouch down and your center of gravity is lower.\n\nBeginners commonly watch their feet as they practice cruising and carving, but you should keep your gaze fixed on the horizon or slightly downhill. Your board goes where your eyes go.\n\n07\n\nof 07\n## Hill Carving On a Longboard\nDaniel Milchev \/ Getty Images\n\nOnce you're comfortable controlling your [longboard](https:\/\/www.liveabout.com\/setting-up-a-slide-deck-longboarding-3002233) on gentle slopes, you may want to try something more challenging. Longboarding down a hill is exactly like longboarding down a slope, but faster. Stopping is a little trickier, too, because you've built up more speed. But the basic techniques still apply.\n\nRegardless of whether you're practicing for the first time or have been riding for a while, remember to wear safety gear. At a minimum, this means wearing a helmet. Knee and elbow pads are also a good idea. Above all, watch out for cars, bikes, pedestrians, and other boarders as you ride.","meta_canonical":null}

3. Robots.txt Check

Query:

Response:

4. Spam/Ban Check

Query:

Response:

5. Seen Status Check

ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled

📄

INDEXABLE

✅

CRAWLED

22 days ago

🤖

ROBOTS ALLOWED

Page Info Filters

Filter	Status	Condition	Details
HTTP status	PASS	`download_http_code = 200`	HTTP 200
Age cutoff	PASS	`download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH`	0.7 months ago
History drop	PASS	`isNull(history_drop_reason)`	No drop reason
Spam/ban	PASS	`fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0`	ml_spam_score=0
Canonical	PASS	`meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed`	Not set

Page Details

Property	Value
URL	https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-longboard-instructions-3002393
Last Crawled	2026-03-17 01:28:00 (22 days ago)
First Indexed	2019-05-25 03:26:30 (6 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Learn How to Skateboard on Longboard in 7 Simple Steps
Meta Description	Learn how to longboard with simple instructions, including how to stand, push, carve, and stop your board.
Meta Canonical	null
Boilerpipe Text	Using a longboard to skateboard provides stability but the tradeoff is less agility. Learning how to longboard doesn't require much equipment, aside from a longboard, a helmet, pads, and some shoes. But before you begin, you should know the difference between longboarding and shortboarding. Each is a type of skateboard with a deck made of wood or composite material and wheels attached using squat T-shaped mounts called trucks. The primary difference, apart from length, is that longboards are used for cruising streets and carving hills, whereas shortboards also are used for jumps, kicks, and tricks on the halfpipe. Longboards are typically 42 inches long, though they may be as short as 34 inches for a kid's board or 50 inches for a tall rider. Width varies from 7 to 10 inches, depending on a rider's shoe size, but 8.5 inches is common. Shortboards, by comparison, are usually 30 to 33 inches long and 8 inches wide. Unlike shortboards, which usually have a symmetrical head and tail, longboards are available in different shapes for different riding styles. Whatever board you choose, you'll want to buy a good safety helmet and wear flat-bottomed shoes for stability. 01 of 07 Types of Longboards Sigrid Gombert/Getty Images The longer a longboard is, the more stable it will be. But longer boards are less agile; they don't turn as quickly or as easily as shorter ones. Before you buy a longboard, think about the kind of riding you want to do. Cruising . If you're primarily using your board for commuting, you'll want a cruiser or pintail board. Cruisers have a gently pointed nose and slightly rounded tail. The nose on a pintail is more sharply rounded, and its tail tapers to a defined point. Freestyling or freeriding . If you're into technical downhill riding or like to use your longboard for dancing (showing off a range of skills), you'll want a dropdown or dropthrough board, both of which have narrow, symmetrical heads and tails with blunt ends. Downhill longboarding. If you have a need for speed, you'll want a stiff cruiser deck, a topmount, or a speed deck. Speedboards resemble dropthroughs but with asymmetrical heads and tails. Topmounts have symmetrical heads and tails. Wheels for longboards are wider than for shortboards to allow for a smoother ride and are usually made of urethane. Wheel edges may be square (best for cruising flat surfaces or smooth, straight hills), beveled (good for twisty roads), or rounded (great for carving and sliding). 02 of 07 Goofy or Regular Stance janzgrossetkino / Getty Images You can use two different kinds of stances when riding a longboard: regular (left foot forward) and goofy (right foot forward). The foot that's at the head of the board is your balancing foot. It's the one you'll lean on as you're accelerating or turning. Your rear foot is your kicking foot. It's the one you'll use to propel yourself forward by pushing against the pavement. If you skateboard , snowboard, surf , or wakeboard, then go with the stance you already use. Otherwise, you'll need to figure out which stance is your natural one. To do this, stand at the base of a staircase and take a step up. The foot you extend first will be your back foot on the longboard. Just remember that there's no right way to ride a longboard. If a goofy stance is more comfortable than a regular one, then go with what feels best. 03 of 07 Finding Your Footing Jamie Garbutt / Getty Images The next step is to practice your stance, preferably on a smooth, flat surface that's free of traffic. Stand on the center of your board to get a feel for how springy it is. Bend your knees and crouch down, then stand back up. Get used to shuffling and moving your feet along the deck without stepping off. Foot placement depends on how you're riding. Most of the time you'll want to keep your feet between the trucks at a little wider than shoulder width, with your front foot pointed diagonally at about a 45-degree angle and your back foot pointed out slightly a few degrees. For bombing hills (longboarding down hills fast), try spreading your feet wider. If you want more speed, try pointing your feet downhill. Remember to put a good amount of weight on the front foot when hill bombing to remain in control. 04 of 07 Pushing Off vaquey / Getty Images Take your back foot off of the longboard and put it on the ground. To get moving, simply push off with this foot. You can push a few times if you want to get more speed quickly or just make one big push. Once you get the board moving, put your foot back on the longboard. If it feels more comfortable to push with your front foot, that's fine, too. That technique is called "pushing Mongo." Once you're comfortable with getting yourself moving on a flat surface, practice riding down a hill. Find a slight slope—not a steep drop—and get on your longboard. Don't push the first few times you try; let gravity pull you down. Next, try pushing once and riding down. Increase your speed as you feel comfortable. 05 of 07 Stopping on a Longboard FatCamera / Getty Images Getting your longboard going is important, but so is stopping. If you're just learning how to longboard, the easiest method is footbreaking (dragging your foot). Take the foot you push with and drag it on the pavement until you come to a gentle stop. Keep the bottom of your foot flat on the ground as you drag it. Once you've practiced this, you can try more advanced means of stopping, like the Coleman slide . If you end up going too fast and getting out of control, you'll probably have to bail by jumping off. Although it sounds reckless, it isn't. The idea is to leap off the board and hit the ground running so that you remain on your feet. The sensation is a little like hopping off a moving sidewalk. To practice, find a flat area where you can get moving without going too quickly, preferably adjacent to a grassy area you can leap to and not hurt yourself if you stumble. Once you start rolling, just jump off the board and try remaining upright. This will take practice, so wear your pads and go slowly. 06 of 07 Simple Carving and Cruising wundervisuals / Getty Images After you've learned how to start and stop your longboard, you need to learn how to turn or carve. Shifting your weight to one side or another as you ride causes the board to turn in the same direction that you lean toward. You can carve on your heel edge or your toe edge, and the deeper you carve, the more extreme of a turn you will make. Try carving gently down the slope where you've been practicing. Begin by getting some forward momentum, then gently lean to one side to begin turning. Carving slows you down, so you may need to give yourself a stronger push. Try moderating your speed by carving from side to side as you cruise. Your speed will increase the more you crouch down and your center of gravity is lower. Beginners commonly watch their feet as they practice cruising and carving, but you should keep your gaze fixed on the horizon or slightly downhill. Your board goes where your eyes go. 07 of 07 Hill Carving On a Longboard Daniel Milchev / Getty Images Once you're comfortable controlling your longboard on gentle slopes, you may want to try something more challenging. Longboarding down a hill is exactly like longboarding down a slope, but faster. Stopping is a little trickier, too, because you've built up more speed. But the basic techniques still apply. Regardless of whether you're practicing for the first time or have been riding for a while, remember to wear safety gear. At a minimum, this means wearing a helmet. Knee and elbow pads are also a good idea. Above all, watch out for cars, bikes, pedestrians, and other boarders as you ride.
Markdown	[Skip to content](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-longboard-instructions-3002393#skip-to-content) Menu [Home](https://www.liveabout.com/) - [Entertainment](https://www.liveabout.com/entertainment-4687948) - [Music](https://www.liveabout.com/music-4688277) - [TV & Film](https://www.liveabout.com/tv-and-film-4688227) - [Performing Arts](https://www.liveabout.com/performing-arts-4688207) - [Visual Arts](https://www.liveabout.com/visual-arts-4688195) - [Fashion & Style](https://www.liveabout.com/fashion-and-style-4145425) - [Love & Romance](https://www.liveabout.com/love-and-romance-4145433) - [Gaming](https://www.liveabout.com/gaming-4842275) - [Careers](https://www.liveabout.com/careers-6504628) - [Career Paths](https://www.liveabout.com/career-paths-6504688) - [Finding a Job](https://www.liveabout.com/finding-a-job-6504741) - [Succeeding at Work](https://www.liveabout.com/succeeding-at-work-6504777) - [Business Ownership](https://www.liveabout.com/business-ownership-6504631) - [Activities](https://www.liveabout.com/activities-4688119) - [Sports & Athletics](https://www.liveabout.com/sports-athletics-4688118) - [The Great Outdoors](https://www.liveabout.com/the-great-outdoors-4688002) - [Hobbies](https://www.liveabout.com/hobbies-4688185) - [Humor](https://www.liveabout.com/humor-4687973) - [Political Humor](https://www.liveabout.com/political-humor-4687972) - [Web Humor](https://www.liveabout.com/web-humor-4687964) - [Paranormal & Ghosts](https://www.liveabout.com/paranormal-4687959) - [About Us](https://www.liveabout.com/about-us-5112071) Search - Activities - [Sports & Athletics](https://www.liveabout.com/sports-athletics-4688118) - [The Great Outdoors](https://www.liveabout.com/the-great-outdoors-4688002) - [Hobbies](https://www.liveabout.com/hobbies-4688185) - Humor - [Political Humor](https://www.liveabout.com/political-humor-4687972) - [Web Humor](https://www.liveabout.com/web-humor-4687964) - [Paranormal & Ghosts](https://www.liveabout.com/paranormal-4687959) - Entertainment - [Music](https://www.liveabout.com/music-4688277) - [TV & Film](https://www.liveabout.com/tv-and-film-4688227) - [Performing Arts](https://www.liveabout.com/performing-arts-4688207) - [Visual Arts](https://www.liveabout.com/visual-arts-4688195) - [Fashion & Style](https://www.liveabout.com/fashion-and-style-4145425) - [Love & Romance](https://www.liveabout.com/love-and-romance-4145433) - [Gaming](https://www.liveabout.com/gaming-4842275) - Careers - [Career Paths](https://www.liveabout.com/career-paths-6504688) - [Finding a Job](https://www.liveabout.com/finding-a-job-6504741) - [Succeeding at Work](https://www.liveabout.com/succeeding-at-work-6504777) - [Business Ownership](https://www.liveabout.com/business-ownership-6504631) - - [About Us](https://www.liveabout.com/about-us-5112071) - [Contact Us](https://www.liveabout.com/about-us-5112071#toc-contact-us) - [Editorial Guidelines](https://www.liveabout.com/about-us-5112071#toc-editorial-guidelines) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.people.inc/brands-privacy) - [Activities](https://www.liveabout.com/activities-4688119) - [Sports & Athletics](https://www.liveabout.com/sports-athletics-4688118) - [Skateboarding](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboarding-4688050) - [Tutorials](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboarding-tutorials-4688048) # Learn How to Skateboard on Longboard in 7 Simple Steps ![Behind view of long boarder on mountain road](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/UrtfPRNpDAlfBtQVSh4RQ57ImbM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/behind-view-of-long-boarder-on-mountain-road-176942914-59dd0835aad52b0010234755.jpg) ![Behind view of long boarder on mountain road](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/UrtfPRNpDAlfBtQVSh4RQ57ImbM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/behind-view-of-long-boarder-on-mountain-road-176942914-59dd0835aad52b0010234755.jpg) Connor Walberg / Getty Images [![Sports](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/_rvEy2x9lO5eyBaasYG8AW2egs4=/150x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/Activities2x-92fcb82fb6c74b74a575dac1ca2c56e3.png)](https://www.liveabout.com/sports-athletics-4688118) [Sports & Athletics](https://www.liveabout.com/sports-athletics-4688118) - [Skateboarding](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboarding-4688050) - [Tutorials](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboarding-tutorials-4688048) - [Basics](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboarding-basics-4688049) - [Famous Skaters](https://www.liveabout.com/famous-skaters-4688046) - [Baseball](https://www.liveabout.com/baseball-4688117) - [Bicycling](https://www.liveabout.com/bicycling-4688107) - [Billiards](https://www.liveabout.com/billiards-4688102) - [Bodybuilding](https://www.liveabout.com/bodybuilding-4688096) - [Bowling](https://www.liveabout.com/bowling-4688093) - [Boxing](https://www.liveabout.com/boxing-4688090) - [Car Racing](https://www.liveabout.com/car-racing-4688089) - [Cheerleading](https://www.liveabout.com/cheerleading-4688088) - [Extreme Sports](https://www.liveabout.com/extreme-sports-4688085) - [Football](https://www.liveabout.com/football-4688082) - [Golf](https://www.liveabout.com/golf-4688076) - [Gymnastics](https://www.liveabout.com/gymnastics-4688067) - [Ice Hockey](https://www.liveabout.com/ice-hockey-4688058) - [Martial Arts](https://www.liveabout.com/martial-arts-4688056) - [Professional Wrestling](https://www.liveabout.com/professional-wrestling-4688053) - [Skating](https://www.liveabout.com/skating-4688045) - [Paintball](https://www.liveabout.com/paintball-4688006) - [Soccer](https://www.liveabout.com/soccer-4688035) - [Swimming & Diving](https://www.liveabout.com/swimming-4688030) - [Table Tennis](https://www.liveabout.com/table-tennis-4688022) - [Tennis](https://www.liveabout.com/tennis-4688016) - [Track & Field](https://www.liveabout.com/track-and-field-4688012) - [Volleyball](https://www.liveabout.com/volleyball-4688008) - [Other Activities](https://www.liveabout.com/other-activities-4688005) [Learn More](https://www.liveabout.com/sports-athletics-4688118) By [Steve Cave](https://www.liveabout.com/steve-cave-3002036) Updated on 09/28/18 Using a longboard to skateboard provides stability but the tradeoff is less agility. Learning how to longboard doesn't require much equipment, aside from a longboard, a helmet, pads, and some shoes. But before you begin, you should know the difference between longboarding and shortboarding. Each is a type of skateboard with a deck made of wood or composite material and wheels attached using squat T-shaped mounts called trucks. The primary difference, apart from length, is that longboards are used for cruising streets and carving hills, whereas shortboards also are used for jumps, kicks, and tricks on the halfpipe. Longboards are typically 42 inches long, though they may be as short as 34 inches for a kid's board or 50 inches for a tall rider. Width varies from 7 to 10 inches, depending on a rider's shoe size, but 8.5 inches is common. Shortboards, by comparison, are usually 30 to 33 inches long and 8 inches wide. Unlike shortboards, which usually have a symmetrical head and tail, longboards are available in different shapes for different riding styles. Whatever board you choose, you'll want to buy a good safety helmet and wear [flat-bottomed shoes](https://www.liveabout.com/is-breaking-skateboards-normal-3002424) for stability. 01 of 07 ## Types of Longboards ![Young male skateboarder making smartphone call in skateboard shop](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/YwyYT_TLjmp4_QZTk0M-oFYwL8o=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-740532445-5989c1b868e1a20011665203.jpg) Sigrid Gombert/Getty Images The longer a longboard is, the more stable it will be. But longer boards are less agile; they don't turn as quickly or as easily as shorter ones. Before you buy a longboard, think about the kind of riding you want to do. [Cruising](https://www.muirskate.com/longboard/cruiser-boards/all). If you're primarily using your board for commuting, you'll want a cruiser or pintail board. Cruisers have a gently pointed nose and slightly rounded tail. The nose on a pintail is more sharply rounded, and its tail tapers to a defined point. [Freestyling or freeriding](https://rideasf.com/lifestyle/best-freeride-longboards-for-you). If you're into technical downhill riding or like to use your longboard for dancing (showing off a range of skills), you'll want a dropdown or dropthrough board, both of which have narrow, symmetrical heads and tails with blunt ends. Downhill longboarding. If you have a need for speed, you'll want a stiff cruiser deck, a topmount, or a speed deck. Speedboards resemble dropthroughs but with asymmetrical heads and tails. Topmounts have symmetrical heads and tails. Wheels for longboards are wider than for shortboards to allow for a smoother ride and are usually made of urethane. Wheel edges may be square (best for cruising flat surfaces or smooth, straight hills), beveled (good for twisty roads), or rounded (great for carving and sliding). 02 of 07 ## Goofy or Regular Stance ![Man on longboard]() ![Man on longboard](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/XKGzosnraxu_Tp2UeUe4M14NyCs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/man-on-longboard-145676939-5989c1f5054ad900112654cf.jpg) janzgrossetkino / Getty Images You can use two different kinds of stances when riding a longboard: regular (left foot forward) and [goofy](https://www.liveabout.com/goofy-meaning-3002686) (right foot forward). The foot that's at the head of the board is your balancing foot. It's the one you'll lean on as you're accelerating or turning. Your rear foot is your kicking foot. It's the one you'll use to propel yourself forward by pushing against the pavement. If you [skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/build-pro-grade-skateboard-3002214), snowboard, [surf](https://www.liveabout.com/surfing-4687992), or wakeboard, then go with the stance you already use. Otherwise, you'll need to figure out which stance is your natural one. To do this, stand at the base of a staircase and take a step up. The foot you extend first will be your back foot on the longboard. Just remember that there's no right way to ride a longboard. If a goofy stance is more comfortable than a regular one, then go with what feels best. 03 of 07 ## Finding Your Footing ![mature long boarder performing a trick]() ![mature long boarder performing a trick](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/MvtR2xz0-wf7j2HB7fOts-Rn1-Q=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/mature-long-boarder-performing-a-trick-644646881-5989c2490d327a00115684b1.jpg) Jamie Garbutt / Getty Images The next step is to practice your stance, preferably on a smooth, flat surface that's free of traffic. Stand on the center of your board to get a feel for how springy it is. Bend your knees and crouch down, then stand back up. Get used to shuffling and moving your feet along the deck without stepping off. Foot placement depends on how you're riding. Most of the time you'll want to keep your feet between the trucks at a little wider than shoulder width, with your front foot pointed diagonally at about a 45-degree angle and your back foot pointed out slightly a few degrees. For bombing hills (longboarding down hills fast), try spreading your feet wider. If you want more speed, try pointing your feet downhill. Remember to put a good amount of weight on the front foot when hill bombing to remain in control. 04 of 07 ## Pushing Off ![Longboard Ride]() ![Longboard Ride](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/RU1kurI4Otg5DmoncVMRclZMunE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/longboard-ride-113916408-5989c2ce6f53ba00111468c3.jpg) vaquey / Getty Images Take your back foot off of the longboard and put it on the ground. To get moving, simply push off with this foot. You can push a few times if you want to get more speed quickly or just make one big push. Once you get the board moving, put your foot back on the longboard. If it feels more comfortable to push with your front foot, that's fine, too. That technique is called "pushing Mongo." Once you're comfortable with getting yourself moving on a flat surface, practice riding down a hill. Find a slight slope—not a steep drop—and get on your longboard. Don't push the first few times you try; let gravity pull you down. Next, try pushing once and riding down. Increase your speed as you feel comfortable. 05 of 07 ## Stopping on a Longboard ![Mid adult man longboards down rural highway]() ![Mid adult man longboards down rural highway](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/M_WY8LZqvNmiTkcl6TPXOn0RVL0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/mid-adult-man-longboards-down-rural-highway-687790786-5989c366aad52b0010fd39fa.jpg) FatCamera / Getty Images Getting your longboard going is important, but so is stopping. If you're just learning how to longboard, the easiest method is [footbreaking](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboarding-tutorials-4688048) (dragging your foot). Take the foot you push with and drag it on the pavement until you come to a gentle stop. Keep the bottom of your foot flat on the ground as you drag it. Once you've practiced this, you can try more advanced means of stopping, like the [Coleman slide](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboard-powerslide-instructions-3002960). If you end up going too fast and getting out of control, you'll probably have to bail by jumping off. Although it sounds reckless, it isn't. The idea is to leap off the board and hit the ground running so that you remain on your feet. The sensation is a little like hopping off a moving sidewalk. To practice, find a flat area where you can get moving without going too quickly, preferably adjacent to a grassy area you can leap to and not hurt yourself if you stumble. Once you start rolling, just jump off the board and try remaining upright. This will take practice, so wear your pads and go slowly. 06 of 07 ## Simple Carving and Cruising ![African American teen girl on a longboard doing downhill racing]() ![African American teen girl on a longboard doing downhill racing](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/lv1bfgpJL6xkaJvWTCoPqKTiFXc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/african-american-teen-girl-on-a-longboard-doing-downhill-racing-469262742-5989c39ad088c00011a9d5f9.jpg) wundervisuals / Getty Images After you've learned how to start and stop your longboard, you need to learn how to turn or carve. Shifting your weight to one side or another as you ride causes the board to turn in the same direction that you lean toward. You can carve on your heel edge or your toe edge, and the deeper you carve, the more extreme of a turn you will make. Try carving gently down the slope where you've been practicing. Begin by getting some forward momentum, then gently lean to one side to begin turning. Carving slows you down, so you may need to give yourself a stronger push. Try moderating your speed by carving from side to side as you cruise. Your speed will increase the more you crouch down and your center of gravity is lower. Beginners commonly watch their feet as they practice cruising and carving, but you should keep your gaze fixed on the horizon or slightly downhill. Your board goes where your eyes go. 07 of 07 ## Hill Carving On a Longboard ![Friends riding skateboard.]() ![Friends riding skateboard.](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/sjhJjAMZi9t8SAC1fFxNJJlThU4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/friends-riding-skateboard--161311021-5989c44e685fbe001121cc91.jpg) Daniel Milchev / Getty Images Once you're comfortable controlling your [longboard](https://www.liveabout.com/setting-up-a-slide-deck-longboarding-3002233) on gentle slopes, you may want to try something more challenging. Longboarding down a hill is exactly like longboarding down a slope, but faster. Stopping is a little trickier, too, because you've built up more speed. But the basic techniques still apply. Regardless of whether you're practicing for the first time or have been riding for a while, remember to wear safety gear. At a minimum, this means wearing a helmet. Knee and elbow pads are also a good idea. Above all, watch out for cars, bikes, pedestrians, and other boarders as you ride. - [![Learning to Kickturn]() ![Learning to Kickturn](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/IwbM_67_6aVwpty84zZvJCjszck=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-518282753-590125ed5f9b5810dc57139d.jpg) Kickturn on a Skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-kickturn-on-skateboard-3002955) - [![]() ![](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/kVVtedndTPaArTE12wXlQ_ioGlU=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/fashion_style_liveabout-5994728b03f4020011d9754c.png) Build Your Own Pro Grade Skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/build-pro-grade-skateboard-3002214) - [![]() ![](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/kVVtedndTPaArTE12wXlQ_ioGlU=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/fashion_style_liveabout-5994728b03f4020011d9754c.png) How to Replace Skateboard Bearings](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-replace-skateboard-bearings-3002217) - [![Young woman doing an ollie at skatepark]() ![Young woman doing an ollie at skatepark](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/nc5aH5WCqp9IqQL2t-4eoChV4GQ=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-641276018-591dc0935f9b58f4c04a8452.jpg) How to Ollie on a Skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-ollie-on-skateboard-3002977) - [![]() ![](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/kVVtedndTPaArTE12wXlQ_ioGlU=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/fashion_style_liveabout-5994728b03f4020011d9754c.png) Guide to Replacing Skateboard Trucks](https://www.liveabout.com/replace-skateboard-trucks-instructions-3002219) - [![Skateboarder grinding a hand rail.]() ![Skateboarder grinding a hand rail.](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/LqZts--v_BfWaT131LJUrcbxX6c=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-182040542-590a572f3df78c92834b77d9.jpg) How to 50-50 Grind on a Skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-50-50-grind-3002970) - [![kickflip]() ![kickflip](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/m9iYZXzLmN_xnJMwrJdt2v36q4Y=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-98877349-5c85ec8946e0fb00010f1101.jpg) How to Kickflip on a Skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-kickflip-on-skateboard-3002975) - [![skateboarder legs doing a trick heelflip at skatepark]() ![skateboarder legs doing a trick heelflip at skatepark](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/ZSdAJCGKd0nBFKmvW9w6VmGvg8g=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-477783598-d0170ec7788c4c07b14df9bae670c3f5.jpg) How to Do the Heelflip on a Skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-heelflip-on-skateboard-3002974) - [![Close up of male fitting bearings in skateboard wheels]() ![Close up of male fitting bearings in skateboard wheels](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/zuV1Amd5tKCmOxTcloVpEnv4fFg=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/close-up-of-male-fitting-bearings-in-skateboard-wheels-698841860-59f1dc856f53ba001152755e.jpg) Safely Remove Your Skateboard Bearings](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-remove-skateboard-bearings-3002218) - [![Teenage boy on ramp at skateboard park]() ![Teenage boy on ramp at skateboard park](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/NPd-tnuAzPDsPTZYJHMgfgFbYZQ=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-518337859-5912322b3df78c9283fb1416.jpg) Learn How to Drop In on a Skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-drop-in-on-skateboard-3002972) - [![Setting Up a Slide Deck]() ![Setting Up a Slide Deck](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/vKhpod-WIkeSkBwBE1bbaEzW1aE=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/1Slider-56a873c03df78cf7729e24fa.jpg) Setting Up a Slide Deck for Downhill Longboarding](https://www.liveabout.com/setting-up-a-slide-deck-longboarding-3002233) - [![People skateboarding in skateboard park]() ![People skateboarding in skateboard park](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/48o06Ha_XKaB160GlNqwe9lshG4=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/people-skateboarding-in-skateboard-park-500064697-5a2579d2842b17001949fde7.jpg) Vert Skateboarding Basics](https://www.liveabout.com/vert-skateboarding-basics-3002985) - [![Portrait of teenage girl with skateboard at park]() ![Portrait of teenage girl with skateboard at park](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/PDZl94H-_HIZjAoz4G30I4KXPR0=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/portrait-of-teenage-girl-with-skateboard-at-park-518337489-59b31c259abed50011b68d94.jpg) How to Conquer Fear of Skateboarding](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-conquer-skateboarding-fear-3002967) - [![Teenage friends skateboarding on sunny urban street]() ![Teenage friends skateboarding on sunny urban street](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/nUgthUAUXC5owznhia1Lqh1aTqo=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-672147939-b2f8782713cd4fca86bfb4d96b7f7c45.jpg) Basic Skateboarding Tricks](https://www.liveabout.com/basic-skateboard-tricks-3002986) - [![Boy skateboarding on road]() ![Boy skateboarding on road](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/4zrVYY4rq3nSAZWsMyyFWW_46gM=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-498187859-591dc9d43df78cf5fa4cbc38.jpg) How to Manual on a Skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-manual-on-skateboard-3002976) - [![Shot of a young man skating down a flight of stairs]() ![Shot of a young man skating down a flight of stairs](https://www.liveabout.com/thmb/q_SioBkVI_vvivAfsLDk9WwbAyc=/250x0/filters:no_upscale\(\):max_bytes\(150000\):strip_icc\(\)/GettyImages-491574414-591dc47d3df78cf5fa4caba2.jpg) How to Ollie Down Stairs](https://www.liveabout.com/how-to-ollie-down-stairs-3002959) [LiveAbout](https://www.liveabout.com/) ## Follow Us - [Entertainment](https://www.liveabout.com/entertainment-4687948) - [Careers](https://www.liveabout.com/careers-6504628) - [Activities](https://www.liveabout.com/activities-4688119) - [Humor](https://www.liveabout.com/humor-4687973) - [About Us](https://www.liveabout.com/about-us-5112071) - [Advertise](https://www.people.inc/advertising) - [Careers](https://www.people.inc/careers) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.people.inc/brands-privacy) - [Editorial Guidelines](https://www.liveabout.com/about-us-5112071#toc-editorial-guidelines) - [Contact](https://www.liveabout.com/about-us-5112071#toc-contact-us) - [Terms of Service](https://www.people.inc/brands-termsofservice) LiveAbout is part of the [People Inc.](https://www.people.inc/) publishing family.
Readable Markdown	Using a longboard to skateboard provides stability but the tradeoff is less agility. Learning how to longboard doesn't require much equipment, aside from a longboard, a helmet, pads, and some shoes. But before you begin, you should know the difference between longboarding and shortboarding. Each is a type of skateboard with a deck made of wood or composite material and wheels attached using squat T-shaped mounts called trucks. The primary difference, apart from length, is that longboards are used for cruising streets and carving hills, whereas shortboards also are used for jumps, kicks, and tricks on the halfpipe. Longboards are typically 42 inches long, though they may be as short as 34 inches for a kid's board or 50 inches for a tall rider. Width varies from 7 to 10 inches, depending on a rider's shoe size, but 8.5 inches is common. Shortboards, by comparison, are usually 30 to 33 inches long and 8 inches wide. Unlike shortboards, which usually have a symmetrical head and tail, longboards are available in different shapes for different riding styles. Whatever board you choose, you'll want to buy a good safety helmet and wear [flat-bottomed shoes](https://www.liveabout.com/is-breaking-skateboards-normal-3002424) for stability. 01 of 07 ## Types of Longboards Sigrid Gombert/Getty Images The longer a longboard is, the more stable it will be. But longer boards are less agile; they don't turn as quickly or as easily as shorter ones. Before you buy a longboard, think about the kind of riding you want to do. [Cruising](https://www.muirskate.com/longboard/cruiser-boards/all). If you're primarily using your board for commuting, you'll want a cruiser or pintail board. Cruisers have a gently pointed nose and slightly rounded tail. The nose on a pintail is more sharply rounded, and its tail tapers to a defined point. [Freestyling or freeriding](https://rideasf.com/lifestyle/best-freeride-longboards-for-you). If you're into technical downhill riding or like to use your longboard for dancing (showing off a range of skills), you'll want a dropdown or dropthrough board, both of which have narrow, symmetrical heads and tails with blunt ends. Downhill longboarding. If you have a need for speed, you'll want a stiff cruiser deck, a topmount, or a speed deck. Speedboards resemble dropthroughs but with asymmetrical heads and tails. Topmounts have symmetrical heads and tails. Wheels for longboards are wider than for shortboards to allow for a smoother ride and are usually made of urethane. Wheel edges may be square (best for cruising flat surfaces or smooth, straight hills), beveled (good for twisty roads), or rounded (great for carving and sliding). 02 of 07 ## Goofy or Regular Stance janzgrossetkino / Getty Images You can use two different kinds of stances when riding a longboard: regular (left foot forward) and [goofy](https://www.liveabout.com/goofy-meaning-3002686) (right foot forward). The foot that's at the head of the board is your balancing foot. It's the one you'll lean on as you're accelerating or turning. Your rear foot is your kicking foot. It's the one you'll use to propel yourself forward by pushing against the pavement. If you [skateboard](https://www.liveabout.com/build-pro-grade-skateboard-3002214), snowboard, [surf](https://www.liveabout.com/surfing-4687992), or wakeboard, then go with the stance you already use. Otherwise, you'll need to figure out which stance is your natural one. To do this, stand at the base of a staircase and take a step up. The foot you extend first will be your back foot on the longboard. Just remember that there's no right way to ride a longboard. If a goofy stance is more comfortable than a regular one, then go with what feels best. 03 of 07 ## Finding Your Footing Jamie Garbutt / Getty Images The next step is to practice your stance, preferably on a smooth, flat surface that's free of traffic. Stand on the center of your board to get a feel for how springy it is. Bend your knees and crouch down, then stand back up. Get used to shuffling and moving your feet along the deck without stepping off. Foot placement depends on how you're riding. Most of the time you'll want to keep your feet between the trucks at a little wider than shoulder width, with your front foot pointed diagonally at about a 45-degree angle and your back foot pointed out slightly a few degrees. For bombing hills (longboarding down hills fast), try spreading your feet wider. If you want more speed, try pointing your feet downhill. Remember to put a good amount of weight on the front foot when hill bombing to remain in control. 04 of 07 ## Pushing Off vaquey / Getty Images Take your back foot off of the longboard and put it on the ground. To get moving, simply push off with this foot. You can push a few times if you want to get more speed quickly or just make one big push. Once you get the board moving, put your foot back on the longboard. If it feels more comfortable to push with your front foot, that's fine, too. That technique is called "pushing Mongo." Once you're comfortable with getting yourself moving on a flat surface, practice riding down a hill. Find a slight slope—not a steep drop—and get on your longboard. Don't push the first few times you try; let gravity pull you down. Next, try pushing once and riding down. Increase your speed as you feel comfortable. 05 of 07 ## Stopping on a Longboard FatCamera / Getty Images Getting your longboard going is important, but so is stopping. If you're just learning how to longboard, the easiest method is [footbreaking](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboarding-tutorials-4688048) (dragging your foot). Take the foot you push with and drag it on the pavement until you come to a gentle stop. Keep the bottom of your foot flat on the ground as you drag it. Once you've practiced this, you can try more advanced means of stopping, like the [Coleman slide](https://www.liveabout.com/skateboard-powerslide-instructions-3002960). If you end up going too fast and getting out of control, you'll probably have to bail by jumping off. Although it sounds reckless, it isn't. The idea is to leap off the board and hit the ground running so that you remain on your feet. The sensation is a little like hopping off a moving sidewalk. To practice, find a flat area where you can get moving without going too quickly, preferably adjacent to a grassy area you can leap to and not hurt yourself if you stumble. Once you start rolling, just jump off the board and try remaining upright. This will take practice, so wear your pads and go slowly. 06 of 07 ## Simple Carving and Cruising wundervisuals / Getty Images After you've learned how to start and stop your longboard, you need to learn how to turn or carve. Shifting your weight to one side or another as you ride causes the board to turn in the same direction that you lean toward. You can carve on your heel edge or your toe edge, and the deeper you carve, the more extreme of a turn you will make. Try carving gently down the slope where you've been practicing. Begin by getting some forward momentum, then gently lean to one side to begin turning. Carving slows you down, so you may need to give yourself a stronger push. Try moderating your speed by carving from side to side as you cruise. Your speed will increase the more you crouch down and your center of gravity is lower. Beginners commonly watch their feet as they practice cruising and carving, but you should keep your gaze fixed on the horizon or slightly downhill. Your board goes where your eyes go. 07 of 07 ## Hill Carving On a Longboard Daniel Milchev / Getty Images Once you're comfortable controlling your [longboard](https://www.liveabout.com/setting-up-a-slide-deck-longboarding-3002233) on gentle slopes, you may want to try something more challenging. Longboarding down a hill is exactly like longboarding down a slope, but faster. Stopping is a little trickier, too, because you've built up more speed. But the basic techniques still apply. Regardless of whether you're practicing for the first time or have been riding for a while, remember to wear safety gear. At a minimum, this means wearing a helmet. Knee and elbow pads are also a good idea. Above all, watch out for cars, bikes, pedestrians, and other boarders as you ride.
Shard	192 (laksa)
Root Hash	4785001253814158592
Unparsed URL	com,liveabout!www,/how-to-longboard-instructions-3002393 s443