General
While you don’t need to be super athletic, core strength, flexibility, and endurance can help with balance and falls.
Try to roll or slide out of a fall rather than landing stiff. Wearing pads helps, and learning how to fall can prevent serious injury.
Beginners can use foot braking (dragging the back foot on the ground). Later, you can learn tricks like the tail stop or power slides.
A standard skateboard (not a longboard or penny board) with a deck width of around 7.5″–8.0″ is a good start. Soft wheels can help with smoother rides and better grip.
Cruising is for smooth, relaxed riding (often using longboards), while street skating involves tricks, curbs, rails, and stairs.
Smooth, open surfaces like empty parking lots, driveways, or beginner-friendly skateparks are great for learning.
Safety
Yes! A helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards are highly recommended for beginners to prevent injuries.
Try to roll or slide out of a fall rather than landing stiff. Wearing pads helps, and learning how to fall can prevent serious injury.
It can be safe with the right precautions—gear, safe areas, and not pushing beyond your limits too quickly.