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How To Manual Skateboard

By: Marjorie McAtee

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Whether or not you're a beginning skateboarder, you should learn how to manual on a skateboard. The manual, a sort of skateboard wheelie in which you ride along on just two wheels, is a simple trick that skateboarders of any level can learn to do easily. However, the skateboard manual takes a lot of finesse to do well. Practicing it will help improve your general skateboarding skills no matter what your current level of competence. 

Things you'll need:

  • A skateboard
  1. Find a smooth, flat surface to practice your manuals. If you're a beginning skateboarder, practice the manual inside on a carpeted floor. Carpet keeps the board from moving too quickly, so you'll find it easier to get the knack of balancing on two wheels. Practice stationary manuals to begin with and then begin moving manuals when you're able to balance well on two wheels. 
  2. Position your feet correctly. Your rear foot should be on the tail; your other foot about halfway between the trucks. 
  3. Put your weight on your rear foot and press down on the tail. The front wheels will lift up. Bending your knees and extending your arms can help you balance.
  4. Balance on two wheels for as long as you can. Once you've got the hang of balancing on two wheels, you can begin to do moving manuals, which are trickier. You'll want protective padding if you're practicing moving manuals on concrete.
  5. When you're ready to stop, redistribute your weight into both feet. The front wheels will drop back to the ground and you can resume riding normally.
Posted on: Apr. 12, 2010