This is my first time ever in a skatepark. Although I did play ice hockey and go skiing all the time when I grew up, there were no skateparks around, so halfpipes and ramps are all new to me.
Since the skatepark is something totally new to me, I will take it slow and easy.
First up is this tiny halfpipe. My only goal is not to fall. It may look really easy, but it's not. I struggle to keep my balance. It's like both my rational brain and my instincts need to figure out what to do. The best I can do is stay low and use my arms for balance.
Thankfully, soon I get used to it, and it actually feels a bit like swinging on a children swing.
Then of course, when I'm more confident and film with the selfie camera, this happens ...
Anyway, no problem. Of course, I wear full knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards and helmet.
Onto the real skatepark. Rolling down the ramp is something I feared. But ... no need to worry. Maybe it's my experience skiing or maybe it's easy beacause the ramp is rather small. And any of those bigger ramps I will not try anytime soon.
Turning 180 degrees is not that difficult. These ramps are also much flatter than that tiny halfpipe I tried first. So I feel more in control here.
A minor issue with the plywood surface is that it's quite slippery. It not really a problem, but good to have in mind.
Getting out of here is actually quite an IQ test. My solution is not that elegant, but it works. I guess the skateboarders are like, "what the heck".
Getting more confident, I go a bit faster, roll higher up on quarter pipes, do some small jumps and so on.
It's a lot of fun!
Regarding safety I have three tips:
1. Careful not to crash with other skaters. Before you enter the skatepark, study how they move and make sure you're never in their paths and especially not in their blindspots.
2. Wear full padding. I did fall a few times today but I can skate again tomorrow because I wore protection.
3. Know your limitations. As you can see I did not try anything spectacular. I will take my time to get better at this and then gradualy allow myself to go faster and higher.
All in all, I can say my first attempt at aggressive skating was a great success. Yes, I did not do anything spectacular or impressive, but it was a personal triumph. The skatepark is no longer something mystical or intimidating. It's there for enjoyment. Always. Even in the winter when skating otherwise is off limits.
Thanks to Riga Monterpark for letting me film. Thank you for watching and subscibe for updates.
