Skateboard Lessons For Kids: How to Frontside 50-50

Skateboarding is an art form, a sport, and a lifestyle all rolled into one. Few tricks encapsulate this better than the frontside 50-50 grind. It's a classic trick that's both approachable for beginners and stylish enough to impress seasoned skaters. In this blog post, we will break down the steps to perform a frontside 50-50 grind, troubleshoot common mistakes, and explain how Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles can elevate your skateboarding and surfing skills. Whether you're looking for skateboard lessons or surf lessons, we've got you covered!

What is a Frontside 50-50 Grind?

The frontside 50-50 grind is a fundamental skateboarding trick where both trucks of the skateboard grind on a rail or ledge. It's called "frontside" because the skater approaches the obstacle facing it, making it easier to see and control the grind. This trick is a building block for more complex maneuvers and an essential skill for any skateboarder.

Getting Started: Prerequisites

Before attempting a frontside 50-50 grind, you should be comfortable with the following:

• Ollie: The basic jump on a skateboard, crucial for getting onto the obstacle.

• Balance: Ability to maintain stability while moving.

• Confidence: A willingness to commit to the trick and trust your skills.

Why Learn the Frontside 50-50 Grind?

Mastering the frontside 50-50 grind opens the door to countless other tricks and combinations. It's a versatile move that can be performed on various obstacles, from ledges to rails, and it's a staple in street and park skating.

Setting Up for Success: Skateboard Setup

Your skateboard setup can make a significant difference in performing a frontside 50-50 grind. Here are some tips to optimize your gear:

• Deck Size: Choose a deck that suits your size and style. A width of 7.75" to 8.25" is common for versatility.

• Trucks: Ensure your trucks are properly tightened. Too loose, and you'll wobble; too tight, and turning becomes difficult.

• Wheels: Medium-sized wheels (50mm to 54mm) are ideal for a balance between speed and control.

• Grip Tape: Ensure your grip tape is clean and grippy for maximum foot traction.

Foot Placement and Approach

Correct foot placement is crucial for a successful frontside 50-50 grind. Here’s how to position yourself:

Foot Placement

1. Front Foot: Place your front foot just behind the front bolts, angled slightly forward for optimal control.

2. Back Foot: Position your back foot on the tail of the board, ready to pop an ollie.

Approach

1. Speed: Start with a comfortable speed—not too fast to lose control, but not too slow to lack momentum.

2. Angle: Approach the obstacle at a slight angle, around 20-30 degrees, to help guide your board onto the ledge or rail.

3. Focus: Keep your eyes on the spot where you intend to grind. Visualizing success is half the battle!

Step-by-Step Guide to the Frontside 50-50 Grind

Step 1: Setup and Approach

Ride towards the obstacle with a relaxed stance, keeping your knees slightly bent. Maintain a steady speed and focus on your target.

Step 2: Pop the Ollie

As you reach the obstacle, pop an ollie to get your board onto it. Use your back foot to snap the tail down while sliding your front foot up to level the board.

Step 3: Align the Trucks

Once in the air, aim to land both trucks on the obstacle simultaneously. Your body should be centered over the board to maintain balance.

Step 4: Grind

As you grind, keep your weight evenly distributed between both trucks. Look ahead to maintain your line and stay focused.

Step 5: Dismount

Approach the end of the obstacle with your knees bent. To dismount, perform a small nollie or simply roll off the edge, depending on the obstacle's height.

Step 6: Roll Away

Land softly on both feet, bending your knees to absorb the impact. Ride away smoothly, celebrating your successful frontside 50-50 grind!

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

Learning the frontside 50-50 grind can be challenging, but don't worry—everyone encounters obstacles along the way. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Problem 1: Missing the Grind

Solution: Focus on your ollie height and alignment. Make sure you're popping high enough to clear the obstacle and landing both trucks on it.

Problem 2: Sliding Off

Solution: Keep your weight centered over the board. Avoid leaning too far forward or backward, as this can cause you to slip off.

Problem 3: Losing Balance

Solution: Practice balancing on your board on flat ground. Work on maintaining stability and control during the grind.

Problem 4: Hesitating

Solution: Confidence is key. Trust your skills and commit to the trick. Visualization and positive self-talk can help boost your confidence.

The Role of Coyote Skate & Surf School in Your Progress

Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles is your ultimate partner in mastering the frontside 50-50 grind and other skateboarding tricks. Our experienced instructors provide personalized lessons tailored to your skill level, whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater.

Why Choose Coyote Skate & Surf School?

1. Expert Instructors: Our team of passionate instructors are skilled skateboarders and surfers dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.

2. Customized Lessons: We offer personalized lessons that cater to your specific needs and learning style, ensuring a tailored experience.

3. Supportive Environment: At Coyote Skate & Surf School, we foster a positive and encouraging atmosphere where you can learn and grow.

4. Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum covers a wide range of skateboarding and surfing skills, from basics to advanced maneuvers.

Benefits of Professional Skateboarding Lessons

1. Accelerated Learning: Professional guidance speeds up the learning process, helping you master tricks more efficiently.

2. Improved Technique: Instructors provide valuable feedback to refine your technique and correct mistakes.

3. Increased Confidence: With expert support, you'll gain the confidence to tackle new challenges and push your limits.

4. Safety and Injury Prevention: Our instructors prioritize safety, teaching proper techniques to minimize the risk of injury.

Incorporating Humor into Your Skateboarding Journey

Skateboarding is about having fun and expressing yourself. Here are some humorous tips to keep the stoke high while you learn:

Tip 1: Embrace the Bails

Falling is part of skateboarding, and it happens to everyone—even the pros! Treat bails as funny moments and learning experiences. Remember, gravity is just keeping you grounded.

Tip 2: Celebrate the Small Wins

Every time you land a trick, no matter how small, celebrate with a little victory dance. It’s a great way to keep the energy positive and the vibes high.

Tip 3: Name Your Tricks

Give your tricks fun names like “The Flying Pancake” or “The Wobble Wobble.” It adds personality to your skateboarding and keeps things light-hearted.

Tip 4: Laugh at Yourself

Skateboarding can be challenging, but it’s important to keep a sense of humor. Laugh at your mistakes, enjoy the process, and don’t take yourself too seriously.

Practice Drills and Exercises

To improve your frontside 50-50 grind consistency, incorporate these practice drills into your routine:

Ollie Practice

Work on your ollie technique by practicing ollies on flat ground. Focus on getting height and control in your pop.

Balance Drills

Perform balance drills on flat ground by standing on your board and shifting your weight from side to side. This exercise helps improve your balance and control.

Approach Exercises

Practice riding towards an imaginary obstacle, focusing on your angle and speed. Visualize landing the grind as you approach.

Commitment Drills

Commit to landing the trick by practicing the motion without actually grinding. This drill helps build confidence in your approach.

Embrace the Journey

Learning the frontside 50-50 grind is an exciting journey that requires patience, persistence, and passion. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and remember that every attempt brings you closer to mastering the trick. Whether you're skating in Los Angeles, Venice Beach, or Santa Monica, enjoy the thrill of skateboarding and the endless possibilities it offers.

By following this comprehensive guide and seeking expert guidance from Coyote Skate & Surf School, you'll be well on your way to mastering the frontside 50-50 grind and expanding your skateboarding repertoire. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, there's always something new to learn and discover in the world of skateboarding.

Exploring Skateboard and Surf Lessons in Los Angeles

At Coyote Skate & Surf School, we offer both skateboard and surf lessons to help you explore your passion for these exhilarating sports. Whether you're interested in shredding the streets or riding the waves, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.

Skateboard Lessons

Our skateboard lessons cover a wide range of skills, from foundational tricks like the frontside 50-50 grind to advanced maneuvers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, our personalized lessons will help you progress at your own pace.

Surf Lessons

Experience the thrill of riding the waves with our surf lessons in Los Angeles. Our instructors provide expert guidance on surfing techniques, wave reading, and ocean safety, ensuring a fun and safe experience for all skill levels.

Why Choose Coyote Skate & Surf School?

1. Versatility: We offer both skateboard and surf lessons, allowing you to explore and excel in both sports.

2. Experienced Instructors: Our instructors are passionate about skateboarding and surfing, and they bring a wealth of experience to every lesson.

3. Convenient Locations: With locations in Los Angeles, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica, we provide easy access to the best skate and surf spots in the area.

4. Supportive Community: Join a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion for skateboarding and surfing. Our supportive environment encourages growth and camaraderie.

Take the Leap with Coyote Skate & Surf School

The frontside 50-50 grind is a foundational trick that opens the door to countless possibilities in skateboarding. By mastering this trick, you'll build confidence, improve your skills, and have a blast along the way. With the support of Coyote Skate & Surf School, you can accelerate your progress, learn new tricks, and enjoy the thrill of skateboarding and surfing in Los Angeles.

Whether you're looking for skateboard lessons or surf lessons, Coyote Skate & Surf School is your ultimate destination for honing your skills and exploring the exciting world of action sports. So grab your skateboard, hit the waves, and let the adventure begin!