Learning to Skate in My 40s So I Could Teach My Son
I’m a man in my forties and I didn’t grow up skateboarding. I never learned tricks, never dropped into ramps, and honestly never thought I would even try. But that changed when my seven-year-old son wanted to learn. I knew I wanted to be the one to help him get started.
That decision changed more than I expected.
Starting From Zero
When I started, I weighed close to 300 pounds. I was out of shape, unsure of my balance, and had no idea what to expect. I thought I would fall hard or break something. But I learned quickly that if I stayed low and bent my knees, even falling off the board did not hurt like I feared.
That realization made everything less intimidating. I realized it was not about being perfect or fearless. It was about giving myself permission to be new at something.
Skating Every Day, Even a Little Bit
The biggest thing I have noticed is how much it helps to skate daily. If I take too long of a break, I feel like I have to start over. But even five or ten minutes a day helps me keep my balance, stay comfortable on the board, and feel steady.
Skating has also helped me with my health. I have been eating better and cutting back on calories, and skating gives me a reason to move. It does not feel like exercise in the traditional sense, but it is helping me lose weight and feel better physically and mentally.
My Son Thinks I’m Cool Now
Even though I am still learning, I can now help my son with the basics. I can ride beside him. I can show him how to push, how to stand, how to stop. I am not trying to be a pro. I just want to be part of the experience with him.
To him, I am the coolest person in the world just for trying. And to me, that means everything.
Skating Has Become a Stress Reliever
Life in your forties can be heavy. There is work, pressure, responsibilities, and not much time for yourself. Skating has become my way of pressing pause. Even ten minutes of pushing around outside resets my mood and gives me space to breathe.
I never expected something like skateboarding to be part of my life at this stage, but I am glad it is.
Still Learning, Still Rolling
I still fall. I still need to pace myself. I still get sore. But skating has become something real for me. It is helping me move more, feel better, and connect with my son in a way that feels honest and lasting.
If you are thinking about starting and feel unsure about your age, weight, or ability, I get it. I was there. And I can say without hesitation, you do not need to be young or athletic to get something meaningful out of skateboarding.
All you need is a board, a bit of curiosity, and that first push forward.