How to Ride a Ramp on a Skateboard

Taking a skateboard from the sidewalk to ramps and half pipes is a big step for skateboarders. The most common and most popular ramp to skateboard on is the half pipe. Vert skateboarders use these ramps, which range from 3 feet to more than 10 feet high. Just as learning to ride a skateboard takes time, learning how to ride on ramps requires patience, determination and precursory experience skateboarding on nonramp surfaces.

Things You'll Need

  • skateboard
  • ramp or half pipe
  • helmet and pads
Show More

Instructions

  1. Riding on a Skateboard Ramp

    • 1

      Put the tail of your skateboard on the top of the half pipe. Make sure the wheels are touching the curved part of the ramp, underneath the coping (metal lip).

    • 2

      Put your back foot on the tail or back end of the board and support it with that foot. Place your front foot over the front bolts of the skateboard. Your skateboard should be flush with the half pipe, and the front of the board should be pointing up at about a 45 degree angle. This will give you the most balance.

    • 3

      Push the front of the board down with your front foot. Stay level with the board; if you aren't level with your skateboard, you will fall. Be sure you push down hard enough; if not, you will fall backwards. Don't lean too far forward or you will fall on your face. Keep your body aligned with the skateboard and be careful not to veer off to the left or right. In all likelihood, you will not get it right the first time, so be prepared.

    • 4

      Keep your balance over the the board the entire time. When you reach the top of the other side, without stopping, turn your body and the board 180 degrees, and ride back. Be sure to pump your legs on the initial ride to gain speed so you can make it up the other side. Repeat these steps and you will be able to ride a half pipe.