Mastering Pump Tracks: 8 Essential Tips for Skating with Confidence
Welcome to the pump track! Whether you’re new to pump tracks or looking to sharpen your skills, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a guide to help you skate with confidence and efficiency, based on key techniques and tips.
Tip 1: Board Selection
Choose the Right Board: Opt for a board that feels comfortable and suits your style. Soft wheels are crucial for a smooth ride. We have a complete list of boards here – https://landyachtz.com/cat/pump-track/
Tip 2: Where to Enter the Track/Pump Track Etiquette
Follow the Rules: Enter and exit the pump track at designated points, and always yield to others already on the track.
Experiment Freely: If the track is empty, try starting from different directions to spice things up a bit.
Tip 3: Pumping Technique
Generate Speed: Extend your legs through the valleys to pump and generate speed. The goal is to pump as hard as possible to gain acceleration. Avoid losing momentum by bending your legs over the peaks to eliminate as much uphill resistance as possible.
Leg Movement: At the start of a valley, have your legs bent. As you move through the valley, gradually extend your legs, reaching full extension by the end of the valley. This gradual transition helps maintain downward pressure on the board, which propels you forward. Efficient pumping and smooth absorption of hills are key to keeping your momentum.
Tip 4: Line Choice
Entering Berms: Approach berms parallel to the track and enter higher for better control and more space to adjust. Your line choice going into a berm determines where you will come out.
Combining Corners: Observe the track; if you have two corners in a row, start by figuring out where you want to enter berm 2. Set up your entry into berm 1 so that it spits you out at your desired entry point for berm 2.
Tip 5: Maintaining Speed in Corners
Use the Berm: Think of the berm as an extra-long valley; utilize your pumping technique in the berm. Start the berm with your legs bent. End the berm with your legs straight. Spread out that movement across the entire berm to maintain downwards pressure throughout the duration of the berm.
Manage your Trajectory: Make sure you are diligent with your line choice going into each berm. This will help you carry more speed through the berm.
Tip 6: Stance
Foot Placement: Adjust your foot placement for stability, make sure you find a really comfy position. A larger board allows for more control, especially in the corners.
Tighten your trucks: If needed, you can tighten your trucks to reduce wobbling. You can tune your board to steer from the front truck by cranking down the back while keeping the front truck loose. This will give you lots of stability and control, especially in the high-speed berms.
Tip 7: Scraping
Board Scraping on Peaks: Anticipate scraping when riding a bigger board. Scraping can affect balance, especially as the back trucks lift. Being prepared and anticipating a little bit of scraping helps to maintain balance.
Tip 8: Shoulder Positioning
Guide Your Turns: Your leading shoulder should guide you through the turn. Point your leading shoulder in the direction you want to go. If turning left, point your shoulder left; if turning right, point your shoulder right. Maintain this alignment throughout your turn.
These eight tips will help you refine your pump track skills and boost your confidence. From board selection to mastering your stance, each aspect plays a crucial role in your performance. Keep practicing, and enjoy the ride!
