How Skateboarding Has Grown in Popularity

How Skateboarding Has Grown in Popularity
By Duke McCallister

Over the past fifty to sixty years, there hasn't been a sporting or cultural revolution that's had the impact or success that skateboarding has had. From modest beginnings in California as an alternative to surfing to a counterculture all onto itself to a mainstream activity, skateboarding has exploded unlike anything before or since its inception. And when you actually take a moment to sit and think about it, the massive popularity that skateboards enjoy - and will continue to enjoy - really isn't that surprising at all.

For all the skill, balance and physical dexterity that's required to reach the level of skateboarding that professionals such as Tony Hawk enjoy, skateboarding as a recreation or as a hobby isn't that expensive or challenging to take up. All you really need is to purchase a skateboard, which, in terms of cost, is relatively inexpensive when held up against other activities. Additionally, you'll also need to purchase helmet and elbow pads. But, besides that, there really isn't anything else that's required to initially try skateboarding. Just a hearty attitude, patience and a willingness to get back up after you fall over and over again.

And while many people won't look at skateboarding in this way, riding on a skateboard is, in fact, a great way to get exercise and to stay in shape. That's because of all the balancing and shifting of body weight and position that's required to safely and properly operate and get around on a skateboard. While at first, you may not see the physical and health benefits of riding a skateboard, over a prolonged period of time as your boarding skills improve and grow, you'll quickly be able to see just how balanced and coordinated you and your body have actually become.

A great way to stand out and declare your independence, skateboarding - and skateboarders for that matter, seem to enjoy a carefree lifestyle. Being on a skateboard gives you access to locations and areas throughout any urban landscape which would otherwise be unreachable with other methods of transportation. And, if you practice and hone your skills to reach the highest levels of control and confidence, then you simply won't believe the places you'll go or the tricks that you can perform while riding on your skateboard.

Duke McCallister has one philosophy when it comes to skateboards: and that's to go skate or go home! A skateboarding fan, Duke wants to share his experiences and passion for skateboards with expert boarders and those new to skateboarding. In addition to writing about skateboards, he also visits GoSkateorGoHome.com for all his boarding needs.

Whether talking about skateboard decks, trucks, longboards, grip tape or anything else about skateboarding, Duke is more than happy to talk about it, write about it and share stories about it!

And remember, if you want to check out a fantastic online destination for all your skateboarding needs, just roll on over to one of Duke's favorite sites at GoSkateorGoHome.com!
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