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Spring Safety: Skateboarding

© Hilary Evans

February 1st was National Girls and Women in Sports Day in the United States. Unfortunately in this country girls do not get as involved with physical activity as boys do. They don't reap the benefits that go along with organized activities. Leadership, and team work are skills women need to get along in life, but most parents do not encourage their daughters to get involved in activities that will teach them these things. Why?

There are many reasons parents do not encourage, sometimes even DIScourage, their daughters from participating in sports. The number one reason was fear for their safety. As Spring sprouts it's wings, and the outdoors become accessible once again, it's important to focus on keeping our children safe. Regardless of the steps we may take in keeping our children safe, there is always an opportunity for an accident or mistake to happen. This is an important lesson to remember while preparing our children for the activities of Spring.

Skate boarding

Hailed as one of the more dangerous sports, many parents keep their sons and daughters away from skate boarding. In truth skate boarding is about as dangerous as roller blading or bicycling. Any boarder will be safer if they are using proper gear, know the basics of skating, and know how to survive a fall.

There are several skateboard producers. Some are expensive and some are inexpensive. I would never recommend someone go to a discount store for any sport or safety equipment. They generally are not well made, and cause more harm than good. Skateboards can be expensive, and most parents don't like spending a lot of money when they aren't sure whether their children will stick with something or not. However, when it comes to cheap equipment you are bargaining with a child's safety.

Skateboards have three basic parts. The "deck" is the bandaid-shaped piece of wood. Generally there will be a gripping surface on part of the board. Do not expect this to be sufficient. Always make sure your children have on shoes with non-slip soles. Decks are usually 30-36" long, and shorter is better for the beginning skater.

The "trucks" are the (hopefully) metal pieces that attach the deck to the wheels. Wide trucks are the best for beginners, because they offer the best balance.

The third part of a skateboard is the most obvious. The wheels. Wide wheels offer the most traction, and should be on any board for beginners.