Finger skateboarding, also known as fingerboarding, is a miniature version of skateboarding that has gained immense popularity in recent years. This fascinating hobby involves performing tricks and maneuvers with a small skateboard, typically about 3.9 inches (100 mm) long, using just your fingers. Despite its size, finger skateboarding requires skill, precision, and creativity, making it a compelling activity for enthusiasts of all ages.
The History of Finger Skateboarding
Finger skateboarding has a rich history that dates back to the late 1970s and early 1980s. The concept began as a novelty item in skateboarding magazines, where miniature skateboards were used as promotional tools. It wasn’t until the 1990s that fingerboarding gained traction as a legitimate hobby. The introduction of the Tech Deck brand in the late 1990s revolutionized the scene, providing high-quality fingerboards and accessories that mimicked real skateboards. This shift transformed fingerboarding from a casual pastime into a globally recognized subculture.
The Anatomy of a Fingerboard
Understanding the components of a fingerboard is crucial for mastering the art. Here’s a breakdown of its main parts:
Deck
The deck is the main platform where the rider places their fingers. It is typically made of plastic or wood and comes in various shapes and sizes, much like full-sized skateboards.
Trucks
Trucks are the metal T-shaped pieces mounted underneath the deck. They allow the board to turn and grind on surfaces.
Wheels
Fingerboard wheels are miniature versions of skateboard wheels. They are usually made of plastic or urethane and come in different hardness levels for various types of terrain.
Bearings
Some fingerboards have miniature bearings inside the wheels, providing smooth and fast roll performance.
Grip Tape
Grip tape is a rough surface applied to the top of the deck, giving the rider’s fingers traction.
Getting Started with Fingerboarding
Starting with fingerboarding can seem daunting, but with practice and patience, anyone can master the basics. Here are some essential tips for beginners:
Choosing the Right Fingerboard
When selecting your first fingerboard, consider the following:
Material: Wooden decks provide a more authentic feel, while plastic decks are more durable and budget-friendly.
Size: Standard fingerboards are about 3.9 inches long, but sizes can vary. Choose one that feels comfortable in your hand.
Brand: Established brands like Tech Deck and BerlinWood offer reliable and high-quality fingerboards.
Setting Up Your Fingerboard
Assembling a fingerboard involves attaching the trucks and wheels to the deck. Most fingerboards come pre-assembled, but if you’re customizing, ensure all components are securely fastened.
Basic Fingerboarding Techniques
Mastering the basics is essential before moving on to advanced tricks. Here are the foundational techniques:
The Ollie
The ollie is the fundamental trick in both skateboarding and fingerboarding. It involves snapping the tail of the fingerboard down and simultaneously sliding your fingers up the deck to lift it into the air.
The Kickflip
A kickflip builds on the ollie by adding a flick of the fingers to make the board spin horizontally. Practice the motion slowly before attempting a full kickflip.
The Shuvit
A shuvit involves spinning the board 180 degrees beneath your fingers without it flipping. This trick requires precise timing and finger control.
Advanced Fingerboarding Tricks
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can move on to more advanced tricks that showcase your skills and creativity.
The Heelflip
Similar to a kickflip, the heelflip involves flicking the board with your heel fingers, causing it to spin in the opposite direction.
The 360 Flip
A combination of a kickflip and a shuvit, the 360 flip is a challenging trick that requires the board to flip and spin 360 degrees.
The Impossible
An impressive trick where the board wraps around one finger, completing a full rotation before landing back under control.
Grinding and Sliding
Grinds and slides are tricks performed on obstacles like rails and ledges. Common grind tricks include the 50-50 grind and the boardslide.
Fingerboarding Culture and Community
Fingerboarding is more than just a hobby; it’s a vibrant community with a unique culture. Enthusiasts worldwide connect through social media, forums, and events.
Online Communities
Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok are home to countless fingerboarding videos, tutorials, and showcases. Joining these communities can provide inspiration and feedback from fellow fingerboarders.
Competitions and Events
Fingerboarding competitions and events are held globally, offering a chance for enthusiasts to compete, share tricks, and connect. Notable events include the Fingerboard World Championship and Fast Fingers Contest.
Customization and DIY Culture
Customization is a significant aspect of fingerboarding. Many enthusiasts create their own fingerboards, obstacles, and parks. This DIY culture encourages creativity and personalization, allowing fingerboarders to express their style.
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The Benefits of Fingerboarding
Fingerboarding offers several benefits beyond entertainment. It can improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and creativity. Additionally, it provides a stress-relieving outlet and a sense of community.
Fine Motor Skills
Manipulating the small fingerboard requires precise finger movements, enhancing dexterity and control.
Hand-Eye Coordination
Timing and accuracy are crucial in fingerboarding, improving hand-eye coordination through practice.
Creative Expression
Designing custom fingerboards, creating new tricks, and building unique obstacles allow for endless creative expression.
Stress Relief
The focused nature of fingerboarding can serve as a calming activity, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
Building a Fingerboard Park
Creating a fingerboard park at home can enhance your fingerboarding experience. Here’s how to get started:
Selecting Obstacles
Choose a variety of obstacles such as ramps, rails, and ledges. These can be purchased or handmade using materials like wood, plastic, and metal.
Layout Design
Design a layout that allows for a flow of tricks. Consider the placement of each obstacle to create a challenging yet enjoyable setup.
DIY Obstacles
Crafting your own obstacles can be rewarding. Simple materials like cardboard, glue, and paint can be used to create custom ramps and rails.
Fingerboarding Tips and Tricks
Improving your fingerboarding skills requires practice and dedication. Here are some tips to help you progress:
Consistent Practice
Dedicate time each day to practice fingerboarding. Consistency is key to mastering new tricks and improving technique.
Watch Tutorials
Learn from experienced fingerboarders by watching tutorials online. Break down complex tricks into manageable steps.
Join a Community
Engage with other fingerboarders online or in person. Sharing tips, tricks, and feedback can accelerate your progress.
Experiment with Style
Develop your unique style by experimenting with different tricks and techniques. Creativity is a vital aspect of fingerboarding.
The Future of Fingerboarding
The fingerboarding scene continues to evolve, with new innovations and trends emerging. Advances in technology, such as 3D printing, allow for more precise and customizable fingerboards. Additionally, virtual fingerboarding games and apps are gaining popularity, providing new ways to engage with the hobby.
Technological Advancements
3D printing technology enables the creation of high-quality, custom fingerboards and obstacles. This innovation allows for more detailed and personalized setups.
Virtual Fingerboarding
Fingerboarding games and apps offer a digital platform to practice tricks and compete with others. These virtual environments provide a new dimension to the fingerboarding experience.
Growing Community
The global fingerboarding community continues to expand, with more enthusiasts joining every day. Social media and online platforms facilitate connections, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
Conclusion
Finger skateboarding is a unique and captivating hobby that offers endless possibilities for creativity and skill development. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced fingerboarder, the journey of mastering tricks and connecting with the community is rewarding. Embrace the culture, practice consistently, and let your creativity shine in the world of fingerboarding.
FAQs:
What is the point of a finger skateboard?
The point of a finger skateboard is to perform tricks and maneuvers similar to those done on a full-sized skateboard, but using your fingers instead of your feet. It serves as a fun, portable, and skill-based hobby that allows for creative expression and fine motor skill development.
How do you finger skate?
To finger skate, place your index and middle fingers on the deck of the fingerboard, mimicking the stance of feet on a skateboard. Perform tricks by manipulating the board with your fingers, using techniques like flicking, sliding, and pressing down on the tail to make the board flip, spin, and jump. Basic tricks to start with include the ollie, kickflip, and shuvit.
Why is fingerboarding so hard?
Fingerboarding is hard because it requires precise control and coordination of finger movements to perform complex tricks. The small size of the fingerboard demands fine motor skills and timing to execute tricks accurately. Additionally, learning the correct techniques and building muscle memory takes time and consistent practice.
Is professional fingerboarding a thing?
Yes, professional fingerboarding is a thing. There are professional fingerboarders who compete in international competitions, produce tutorial content, and have sponsorships from fingerboard brands. These professionals showcase high levels of skill and contribute to the growth and popularity of the fingerboarding community.
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