Scootering, BMX, and skateboarding are all a lot of fun, but it is not without its risks. Crashing is a normal part of every rider's journey, but luckily there are lots of things you can do to minimize the impact (no pun intended).
The most effective way to minimize injuries while scootering, skateboarding, and riding BMX is to wear good quality safety equipment. We recommend always wearing a helmet to avoid head injuries. Additionally, knee pads and elbow pads will make crashes much more manageable, and improve your chances at giving that trick another try! Skateboarders can also benefit from wrist guards, although they tend to get in the way for scooters and BMX as they prevent you from holding your handlebars correctly.
When you first arrive at the skatepark, it can be tempting to drop in right away. Not so fast! Taking a few minutes to do some stretches and warm ups will improve your flexibility, minimize the risk of muscle tears, and improve your coordination.
Before you try to ride ramps and rails, make sure you have figured out the basics. Learning basic balance, control, stance and more is essential before you try to push the limits.
Once you move beyond the basics, you will start learning tricks. Not all tricks are created equally though. It's good to learn at a modest pace, and step up the difficulty gradually.
Riding in the skatepark is one of the safest locations you can choose. Make sure that you ride in an area with smooth surfaces. More public areas such as streets and sidewalks can present unexpected dangers (like cars and pedestrians) that are best avoided.
When sharing the skatepark with other riders, you need to be aware of what is going on around you. Pay attention to the flow of the skatepark, and how other people are riding. Wait your turn, and avoid getting in people's way.
7. Learn how to fall properly
With practice and experience, you will learn the best ways to crash. Crashing is inevitable, so it is best to do so in a way that minimizes injury. Use your momentum to your advantage, learn how to tuck and roll, and learn when is best to eject/bail.
8. Take breaks, and don't over do it
Overexertion is a common cause of action sports accidents. You should take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue. Continuing to ride while your muscles are tired can lead to losing your balance and coordination. Don't forget to stay hydrated too!
9. Don't ignore injuries
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, it's best to take a break. Pushing through injuries increases recovery time, and increases the risk of doing more damage. If you are experiencing excessive pain, it is best to consult a medical professional.
Consulting a riding coach is a great option for beginners and experienced riders alike. A qualified instructor will be able to help you avoid bad habits, and guide you through more advanced tricks.
