How to Do Powerslides: Guide to Skateboarding Powerslides

A powerslide is a stylish way to slow down your board. A powerslide involves turning the board sideways while in motion so that the wheels slow or skid to a stop. You can attempt a powerslide after learning how to brake regularly and kickturn.

A powerslide involves turning the board sideways while in motion so that the wheels slow or skid to a stop. A frontside powerslide is when the skater faces forward and uses their back foot to slide the board, and a backside powerslide is when the skater twists their body the other way, using their back foot to shift the board forward.

If you already know how to do nose manuals and shove-its, that will make learning the frontside powerslide a bit easier. If you are looking to add a little flair to your braking, the following steps can help you pull off a frontside powerslide:

1. 1. Gather speed. Gain some momentum before attempting to frontside powerslide, as its purpose is to slow or bring you to a stop while traveling at higher speeds.
2. 2. Use proper foot placement. Your front foot should be over the bolts of your skateboard, while your back foot should be on the tail.
3. 3. Balance. The wider your stance, the more control you will have over your board. Balance your weight properly to keep your stance centered, and be careful not to put your front foot too close to the nose of the board.
4. 4. Jump and shift. Powerslides are easier when you are not pressing down on the board with your full weight. Bend your knees, and right before you slide, lift off slightly (not a full jump) to help reduce the amount of friction between the ground and your board. Once you lift up a little, use your back foot to slide the back wheels to a sideways position.
5. 5. Slide back. Suddenly slowing your board while riding can affect your balance if you are not used to it. If you are using a powerslide to slow down and transition, it is important to maintain your balance as you slide the board back to its natural skating position, so you can continue to move, rather than falling to the ground.

Once you understand how to frontside powerslide, you can attempt to try it in the opposite direction.

1. 1. Gain momentum. Ride your board where you can gain some speed (like downhill). A backside powerslide is slightly easier with momentum.
2. 2. Use proper foot placement. Your front foot should be over the bolts of your skateboard, while your back foot should be on the edge of the tail. Bend your knees like you would for a frontside powerslide.
3. 3. Push and twist. Keep your head above your board to keep your body weight centered. You will need enough power from your back foot to push the board, with enough weight on your front foot to anchor the board as it pivots. Twist your body forward as you use the force of your back foot to slide the board 90 degrees, so that as you briefly ride backward, you can see the front of your back heel.
4. 4. Relax. If you want to transition into another trick without stopping, ease up on your back foot and slightly relax your body to help shift the skateboard back to its original riding position.

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