How to Speed Tuck

The tuck in longboarding is an aerodynamic position used to minimize wind resistance and maximize speed as much as possible, especially when going downhill. The general principle of the tuck is: the lower you can get, the faster you will go. Exactly how you tuck depends on your body mechanics -- we're all built to different sizes, so you'll have to practice off the board and on flat roads to find a position that works well for you before you attempt your tuck downhill.

Things You'll Need

  • Longboard
  • Safety gear
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put your lead led on the board at about a 45-degree angle to the board. Your rear leg should be in the center of the board with your toes pointing directly forward.

    • 2

      Bend your knees so that your rear knee “tucks in” behind your front knee. This puts your rear leg right behind your front leg, minimizing wind resistance. The lower you can crouch down, the faster you'll go.

    • 3

      Lean forward. Ideally, your torso should touch the thigh of your lead leg. If there's a gap between your leg and your chest, you're creating a larger pocket area in which the wind will hit you, slowing you down. It might take a while to get used to this low position while keeping the board under control, but this will come with practice.

    • 4

      Bring your hands to your lower back and hold one hand inside the other, palms pointing upward. Again, this makes you more streamlined.

    • 5

      Keep your head down and look upwards with your eyes. This has a dual effect of decreasing wind resistance and reducing neck strain.