Here Are Our Top Recommended Longboard Cruising Techniques

Cruising on a longboard is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable ways to explore your surroundings. It involves riding on a flat surface, such as a boardwalk or a smooth pavement, at a leisurely pace. Although cruising may seem simple, there are several techniques that can help you become a better and more efficient cruiser. In this article, we will explore some of the top longboard cruising techniques to help you improve your skills and enjoy your rides even more.

Foot Position

Foot position is one of the most important aspects of longboard cruising. Your feet should be positioned in a way that allows you to maintain balance and control while riding. The most common foot position for cruising is the parallel stance, where your feet are shoulder-width apart and parallel to each other. This stance provides stability and allows you to distribute your weight evenly across the board.

Another foot position to consider is the staggered stance, where your front foot is placed slightly ahead of your back foot. This stance provides more control and manoeuvrability but may be less stable than the parallel stance. Experiment with both stances to find the one that works best for you.

2. Pushing

Pushing is the act of using one foot to propel yourself forward on the board. It is one of the most basic and essential techniques for longboard cruising. To push, place your back foot on the tail of the board and use your front foot to push off the ground. As you push, transfer your weight onto your front foot and lift your back foot off the ground. Once you reach a comfortable speed, place your back foot back on the board and maintain your balance.

There are several pushing techniques to consider, including the classic push, the Mongo push, and the switch push. The classic push involves pushing with your front foot and keeping your back foot on the tail of the board. The mongo push involves pushing with your back foot and keeping your front foot on the board. The switch push involves pushing with your front foot and then switching your stance to push with your back foot.

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3. Carving

Carving is a technique that involves making smooth, flowing turns on the board. It is a great way to maintain speed and control while cruising, especially on a slightly inclined surface. To carve, shift your weight onto your toes or heels and turn the board in the direction you want to go. Use your body weight to control the turn and maintain your balance.

4. Pumping

Pumping is a technique that involves using your body weight to generate speed on the board. It is a useful technique for maintaining speed on a flat surface without having to push continuously. To pump, shift your weight forward and backwards on the board, using your legs to generate momentum. As you shift your weight forward, the board will accelerate, and as you shift your weight backwards, the board will slow down. Practice pumping on a flat surface to improve your technique and increase your speed.

5. Kick Turning

Kick Turning is a technique that involves pivoting the board on one wheel to change direction. It is a useful technique for navigating tight spaces or making sharp turns. To kick turn, shift your weight onto your front foot and lift your back wheels off the ground. Pivot the board in the direction you want to go by twisting your shoulders and hips, and then place your back wheels back on the ground. Practice kick turning on a flat surface before trying it on a more challenging terrain.

6. Slaloming

Slaloming is a technique that involves weaving in and out of cones or obstacles while maintaining your speed and balance. It is a great way to improve your manoeuvrability and reaction time. To slalom, carve in and out of the cones or obstacles while maintaining your speed and balance. Use your body weight to control the board.