Skateboarding is an increasingly popular activity amongst teenagers and young individuals. When done safely, it could be an exceptionally rewarding sports activity. Around sixty percent injuries due to skateboarding involve kids under fifteen years old, mostly boys. The ones that are most at risk are:
Skateboarders that are inexperienced – usually those who have been skating less than a week sustain injuries due to falls.
Those that are not wearing protective gear – Each skateboarder must wear safety equipment which include wrist guards, a helmet, knee and elbow pads and the right shoes. Those who perform tricks must have heavy-duty equipment as well.
Skateboarders that skate too close to traffic – or those who use makeshift ramps. Both activities can be incredibly hazardous.
Experience skateboarders that come across unexpected surfaces – or that attempts risky tricks. Riding surfaces that are not level, rocks, or other debris can result in a fall. Uneven and rough surfaces or wet pavements can also lead to a wipe-out. Steer clear from risky behavior and avoid skateboarding too fast or in crowded or dangerous places.
Tips for injury prevention when skateboarding
Most skateboarding injuries is avoidable if you follow the following tips.Always wear the appropriate protective gear
Make sure you empty your pockets of all sharp or hard objects and wear safety gear before getting on your skateboard. Essential protective items to wear include, proper fitting helmets, wrist guards, the right shoes, and elbow and knee pads.Skate on a quality board
A skateboard usually consists of three parts: the board, wheels, and trucks (area where wheels is attached). Shorter decks are more appropriate for those who are beginners since t hey are easier to handle and balance. Skateboards generally have different characteristics for various types of riding that include freestyle, speed, downhill, and slalom. Some boards are rated according to the user’s weight. Make sure you select the right type and quality of board when buying a skateboard.Always ensure that your skateboard is in excellent working condition
Your skateboard must be inspected before each ride. Be on the lookout for issues that must be repaired. It could mean anything from cracked, or broken parts or a slippery top surface, jagged edges, wheels that have cracks or nicks, etc. For more severe issues, its useful to get a professional to carry out the repairs.- Familiarize yourself with the basic skateboarding skills
- It is useful to learn at least the basic skills of skateboard riding, especially how to reach a stop.
- Make sure you are staying in shape
- Just like any other physical activity, if you are in top shape, the chances of injuries are less. We recommend the following:
- Do conditioning exercises and stretch prior and after skateboarding.
- Never use headphones while riding.
- Avoid having more than one person on the board while skating.
- Always show consideration towards other riders, particularly less skilled or younger skateboarders.
- Familiarize yourself with what to do in an emergency. Accidents can happen quickly. When someone gets hurt, dial emergency assistance or an ambulance immediately.
