How to Become a Professional Skateboarder

Do you want to be the next Tony Hawk? Then consider the fact that he practices his sport for two or more hours a day. Coordination, talent, athleticism, discipline, daring and an independent spirit are necessary traits in one who desires to become a professional skateboarder. Do you think you have what it takes? If so, let's get started!

A skateboarder gets to professional status by devoting his time and life to the sport. Harness as many hours of the day as you can into practicing and honing your abilities, and be ready to give up other extracurricular activities as you integrate the sport into your everyday lifestyle. With talent and dedication, you may be one of those fortunate enough to make $1,000 to $10,000 per month as a professional skateboarder.

Although the sport was devised by surfers in California in the 1950s, it did not become popular until the 1970s, when better wheels were developed and a skateboard jump named the "ollie," made for better movement and adventure, not to mention more injuries to the skaters. These injuries led to laws, which prohibit skateboarding in various locations, so be sure to be aware of the laws and prohibited areas before heading to the streets and parks.

Locate a store that devotes their stock and resources toward skateboarding. Not only will they be more likely to have better equipment, but they normally employ skilled skateboarders to assist the customers.

1. A good skateboard is essential. Skateboards come already assembled or can be custom created. A custom board will need wheels, a truck (the metal T-shaped axle which holds the wheels), a deck and bearings. Just to give you an idea of the complexity of a custom board, there are more than 50 companies that make skateboard wheels. For the best durability, look for poly-urethane wheels and a deck made of wood. Add sturdy grip tape to the deck, to aid performance.
2. Protective gear is essential for the daring sport. Shop for a helmet that fits well and does not obstruct your view. Add protective knee, wrist and elbow pads, gloves and ankle braces. Wear the gear to keep injury free, so that precious practice time isn't wasted while your body heals.
3. Your skateboard will get a good work-out, so purchase maintenance equipment and learn how to use it. Ask the sales staff to teach you their tips and tricks. Some useful items are bearing lubrication, skateboard wax and nut and bolt tightening tools.

Ability and talent are necessary for a successful career, but learning the art of skateboarding is crucial. Take some time to locate a good instructor or teaching program near you.

1. Talk to the most talented skateboarders at the park and find out who instructed them, and it never hurts to ask if they would be willing to teach you what they know.
2. Take advantage of the staff at the skateboard shop, and ask them where to find a good instructor.
3. Research Online to see what instructors and camps are available near you. Kidzworld mentions Skater Island in Rhode Island, PointXCamp in Aguanga, California, Lake Owen Skateboard Camp in Cable, Wisconsin and Camp Woodward Skateboard Camp in Woodward, Pennsylvania.

1. Skate everywhere you go. Make it a challenge to find new routes and interesting obstacles on which to practice your jumps.
2. Head to the local skateboard park or a street that allows skateboarding and practice with others to get inspiration. Once you have mastered the local park, consider traveling to new ones.
3. Practice old and new tricks each day.
4. Sign up for local competitions and events and hone your competition skills.
5. Join the World Freestyle Skateboard Association (WFSA) to locate competitions and learn from other skaters on their forum.
6. Advance to big time championship competitions and make your mark. The World Cup Skateboarding site is host to information regarding upcoming challenges across the country.

Grab a friend and have them videotape you while performing your best jumps and tricks. Send the video to companies which sponsor skateboarders. If they like what they see, the chance for a sponsorship will follow. Be persistent and don't give up. Most of all, let your personality shine through while you enjoy yourself on wheels. Sponsors shy away from hard to manage, conceited and unpleasant athletes, so guard yourself against such traits.