As the summer heat intensifies, so should your skateboarding game. If you have moved past the basic balancing, pushing, and kickturning phase, you are likely in that sweet spot of intermediate skating—comfortable on the board, but eager to unlock more technical tricks and consistent style. Summer offers the perfect conditions: longer days, dry pavement, and park sessions that stretch into the cool evenings. It is the ideal season to move from simply cruising to truly flow, taking your tricks from flat ground to obstacles with confidence.
Mastering the Fundamentals of FlowIntermediate skating is not just about learning a new trick; it is about combining them. To transition from beginner to intermediate, focusing on flow is essential. This means learning to link tricks together without pushing in between. Spend time working on your manual-to-ollie or kickflip-to-manual combinations. The goal is to build muscle memory that allows for a smooth, continuous line. Summer mornings are perfect for this, as the ground is less crowded and the heat is manageable. Focus on pumping through transitions to build speed, rather than relying solely on pushing, which will help you navigate bowls and mini-ramps with ease.
Taking Ollies to New HeightsThe ollie is the foundation of almost every trick, but the intermediate skater must focus on versatility. Start taking your ollies onto, over, and off obstacles. Practice ollieing up curb cuts, over skateboard decks, and down small stair sets. Focus on timing the snap with your speed and lifting your back knee higher to gain height. An intermediate skater should be able to pop a solid ollie consistently on command. By the end of summer, aim to have your ollies high enough to clear debris and consistent enough to tackle small gaps in the skatepark.
Unlocking Pop Shove-Its and KickflipsIf you have not already mastered the pop shove-it, summer is the time to get it dialed. Unlike a regular shove-it, the “pop” adds a satisfying snap that brings the board higher and makes it look cleaner. Once that is consistent, turn your attention to the elusive kickflip. The key here is not just kicking down, but flicking out, allowing the board to rotate under you while you stay balanced. Spend time in the shade practicing the flick motion, then bring it to the pavement. Do not get discouraged by the hundreds of failed attempts; landing that first rolling kickflip in the warm summer air is worth all the effort.
Tackling Small Obstacles and LedgesIntermediate skating is about engaging with the skatepark environment. Start learning to boardslide, starting on low, flat rails or paint-edged ledges. Focus on landing with your weight centered, and learning to pop out cleanly. Similarly, practice frontside and backside 50-50 grinds on ledges. The secret is speed and a smooth approach. A faster approach makes locking into the grind easier, as you are not trying to force the board onto the ledge from a standstill. Bring some skate wax to make ledges and rails slicker for those hot, sticky summer days.
Skating Safely in the HeatSummer skating brings the challenge of high temperatures. To make the most of your sessions, it is crucial to manage the heat. Skate early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the peak sun, which saves your energy and protects your skin. Stay hydrated by bringing more water than you think you need, and consider wearing lightweight, breathable clothing. If you feel dizzy, stop immediately and find shade. Proper prep allows you to skate harder and longer without suffering from exhaustion.
Intermediate skateboarding is all about the joy of progression and the freedom of long summer days. By focusing on combining tricks, improving your pop, and tackling new obstacles, you will elevate your riding style. Embrace the falls, enjoy the grind, and take advantage of every sunny hour to make this summer a milestone in your skateboarding journey.
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