When you hear the phrase “skateboarding downhill” it is probably synonymous with adrenaline-pumping thrill-seeking fun and exhilarating speed. But the true meaning of downhill skating is not just about the amount of speed and the adrenaline rush it provides. It is also about how far you can get down a hill in a certain amount of time and how to do it safely.
To increase your information, the downhill skateboarding world is a competitive one, pushing riders to go faster and faster. Skaters ride a longboard down a steep slope at fast speeds in downhill skateboarding, which is a non-competitive sport.
Downhill skateboarding’s goal is to achieve the highest possible speed while maintaining perfect control of your board. Downhill skateboarding is classified as an extreme activity because of its high speeds and a heightened danger of injury.
In this article, we will look at the science behind this phenomenon and also discuss some of the main tips for going faster. Let’s get started.
Physics Behind How Fast A Skateboard Can Go
In downhill skateboarding, speed is the determining factor in a skater’s performance. Let’s take a look at the following points to understand the science behind speedy skateboarding.
How fast a skateboard can go is dependent on the ability of the rider’s weight distribution, speed, and momentum.
The physics that come into play are: A skater’s momentum is the amount of energy they have in which to accelerate their board. If you push hard on the front of the board, you have more momentum. Momentum is the tendency of a moving object to continue moving. This can be applied to a skateboard when a skater pushes or lifts their weight onto the front of their board.
The weight distribution is how much of the rider’s weight is on the front of the board versus the rear. If a skater’s weight is more on the front, they increase the momentum of their board. The more momentum you have, the faster you can go because you have more energy to give to the skateboard.
Velocity = Distance/Time
The above-mentioned equation shows that the speed of skateboarding also depends upon distance and time. The velocity is the speed of the board and the distance is the length of the hill. The time it takes to ride down a hill is based on the rider’s skill level.
The rider’s skill level is a quick combination of acceleration and deceleration. Downhill skaters have been known to reach speeds of more than 85 mph.
Take a look at Kyle Wester as he sets out to break the fastest skateboard speed downhill record.
Instructions For Going Faster And Safer
Evidently, the fastest downhill skateboarders have a lot of practice and skill. Beginner skateboarders should understand that trying to go faster and faster on a skateboard takes a lot of practice and dedication. There are some tips that will help you learn how to increase your speed and control of your board.
Learn How To Stop
This is essential to your downhill cruising experience. Your board will be going very fast and it is important you know how to stop on your board.
Thus, downhill skateboarding requires strong braking skills. Foot braking is a technique in which you lightly contact the ground with your rear foot to create friction with the pavement, allowing you to slow down and come to a stop.
When traveling downhill, the controlled slide is the most effective approach to keep your speed under control. This method entails tilting the board sideways while in motion, causing the wheels to slow or slide to a halt.
You Should Center Your Weight Over The Front Truck
You can also cope with the speed by crouching with your knees as you go downhill. Be careful not to crouch too low. It is crucial to maintain flexibility in your legs to prevent your muscles from tensing up and causing extra speed. Maintaining your weight over your front trucks will also decrease speed wobble and improve board control.
Large Wheels = Fast Speed
On a skateboard, wheels play a big role in getting faster. Wheels with larger diameters roll quicker than those with lower diameters. Wheels with a diameter of about 65mm or above are good for fast-speed downhill skateboarding.
Make Sure You Know How To Navigate Turns
You must know how to perform turns appropriately when traveling at fast speeds. Foot braking or pre-drifting, a little drift that aids in slowing down to carve a curve safely, are both options. When navigating corners, balance is crucial; too little speed means losing momentum on the turn, while too much speed means missing the turn and wiping out.
Final Thoughts
Summing up, the speed of downhill skateboarding is determined by the length of the hill and the rider’s skills. Once you get the hang of it, you will start to find yourself enjoying the speed and the adrenaline rush that comes with it. The more you practice, the better you will get.
Remember one thing, speedy-downhill skateboarding is fun but it can be dangerous as well. To avoid injury, remember to always wear protective gear such as helmets and pads.
The above-mentioned information will help you get an expert in skating with quick speed. We hope you have enjoyed this article and found it useful. If you have any questions regarding this guide, please let us know in the comments section below. We will be happy to help you out with your confusion.
Hi, my name is Eric and I live for skateboarding! I hope you’ve enjoyed this blog post? If you have it would make my day if you could share it with your friends and family. The more people I can get active and skateboarding the better. I’m here to help you think less and skate more so please keep following my work.