Departure: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Ride Better

Ever feel stuck on the same trick, same spot, same vibe? That’s a sign it’s time for a departure. In skateboarding, staying in one lane keeps you flat, while a fresh move can launch you forward. Let’s break down why shaking up your routine works and how you can do it without falling flat on your face.

Why Leaving the Familiar Helps You Progress

When you keep doing the same thing, your brain stops sending new signals. Muscles get lazy, and the excitement fizzles out. A departure forces your body to adapt, which means stronger balance, quicker reflexes, and a bigger trick toolbox. It’s the same reason athletes add new drills to their training – fresh challenges spark growth.

Plus, every departure is a confidence boost. Nail a new grind after weeks of missing it and you’ll feel unstoppable. That feeling pushes you to try even harder moves, creating a cycle of improvement that keeps your skate sessions fun.

Simple Ways to Make a Smooth Departure

1. Swap the Spot – If you always hit the same stair, find a similar set at a different park. New angles force you to tweak foot placement and timing.

2. Try a New Board Shape – A slightly wider deck or a different wheel size changes how the board feels. Small equipment tweaks can open up whole new styles.

3. Set a Tiny Goal – Instead of “learn a 360 flip,” aim for “land the pop shuvit on this ledge.” Mini wins add up and keep frustration low.

4. Ride With Someone New – Riding with a different crew exposes you to tricks you haven’t seen. Watching a friend nail a trick you’ve ignored can spark curiosity.

5. Change Your Practice Routine – If you spend 30 minutes on manuals, switch to 15 minutes of flatground tricks, then 15 minutes of ollies. Mixing skills keeps your brain active.

6. Record and Review – Shoot a quick clip of a new trick attempt. Seeing the footage helps you spot tiny errors you can fix next time.

7. Take a Day Off – Ironically, stepping away for a day can reset your mind. When you return, the departure feels like a fresh start, not a forced grind.

Remember, a departure doesn’t have to be dramatic. Even a small change, like trying a different stance on the same rail, counts. The key is consistency: make the tweak, practice, adjust, repeat.

Lastly, don’t let fear dictate your moves. Falling is part of the process, and every wipeout teaches you something new. Embrace the slip, learn from it, and keep rolling.

So, what’s your next departure? Pick one of the tips above, give it a go this week, and watch how quickly your skills lift off. The road to better skateboarding starts the moment you decide to leave the old behind.