How to Pivot on a Longboard?
To pivot on a longboard, a key action involves taking the top foot off the longboard while rotating the board, typically on the back foot.
A pivot is a maneuver used on a longboard to turn the board sharply, often from a near standstill or at low speed, without needing a lot of space or momentum for a carving turn. It allows you to quickly change direction or realign your board.
Key Action: Lifting the Top Foot
According to the provided reference from a YouTube video on how to longboard, a fundamental part of performing a pivot involves the rider's top foot coming off the longboard. This action frees the front of the board to rotate.
The Role of Your Feet
While the top (or front) foot is lifted off the longboard, the pivot is executed by rotating the board using your other foot, which remains on the board. This back foot typically acts as the pivot point, allowing the board to spin underneath you. The reference hints at the importance of foot placement ("it's better to do it a bit here") and staying centered, although the specifics aren't detailed in the text.
Why Pivot?
Pivots are useful for:
- Making tight turns in confined spaces.
- Quickly turning around.
- Adjusting your direction without carving.
Learning the Pivot: Acknowledging Challenges
As noted in the reference, learning to pivot can be tricky, and "a lot of people when they start off" may find it challenging. This is often because it requires balance and coordination to lift one foot while controlling the board's rotation with the other.
Basic Steps for This Pivot Type
Based on the core action highlighted in the reference (lifting the top foot) and common longboard techniques:
- Position your back foot firmly on the tail or near the back trucks, establishing it as your pivot point.
- Lift your front/top foot completely off the longboard.
- Use your back foot to apply pressure and rotate the board to your desired direction.
- Once the board is turned, place your front foot back onto the board and resume riding.
Practicing this motion at a standstill first can help build the necessary balance and control before attempting it while moving.
