The idea that skateboarding is “80% mental” is a popular one, and while the exact percentage is debatable, the sentiment rings true. A significant part of progressing in skateboarding involves confronting and managing internal fear. While fear is a natural protective mechanism, it can also be a major obstacle to pushing your limits. So, how do you overcome that fear and start landing those bigger tricks? We’ve consulted with doctors and sports psychologists to bring you actionable strategies to help you conquer fear on your board.
Skateboarder illustration with brain graphic
It turns out, the ability to manage fear isn’t entirely based on luck or genetics. Dr. Jason Prenoveau, a psychology professor at Loyola University Maryland, explains that your sensitivity to fear is influenced by your environment. If you grew up watching friends consistently land tricks without getting hurt, you’re more likely to develop a less fearful mindset. Conversely, if you frequently witnessed injuries, or experienced them yourself early on, you may develop a heightened sense of anxiety toward attempting new tricks. So, don’t be too hard on yourself if you struggle with commitment; maybe it’s your old skate crew you should blame.
Screaming skateboarder gif
However, research also shows that fearful memories can be reshaped. Dr. Marie Monfils, from the Monfils Fear Memory Lab, has found that each time a memory is recalled, it undergoes “reconsolidation.” This means you can add new information or a different interpretation to the memory, potentially transforming fearful experiences into fearless ones. By re-evaluating and actively rewriting your experience with a traumatic slam, you can reduce its power over you.
Johnny Knoxville looking fearful
The Power of Reconsolidation and Visualization
This concept is well-illustrated by Alex Honnold, the legendary rock climber renowned for his free solo climbs. Honnold proactively dealt with fearful memories through meticulous documentation of his climbs, focusing on his achievements and positive experiences. He also utilized visualization techniques, envisioning each move, and even the potential consequences of failure. By actively engaging with and processing his experiences, Honnold reduced his instinctive fear response, enabling him to perform extraordinary feats of athleticism. Interestingly, brain scans revealed that Honnold’s amygdala, the area of the brain that detects fear, is virtually inactive, highlighting the potential for reshaping one’s fear response.
Skateboarder going for a hill bomb gif
Practical Techniques for Skateboarders
To understand how these principles could apply to skateboarding, we consulted with performance psychologist Dave Collins, who has worked with Olympic snowboarders and other elite athletes. He confirmed that many skateboarders already intuitively employ helpful techniques, such as progressing gradually from easier to more challenging tricks and seeking positive affirmation from peers. Collins also suggested that taking a slam could paradoxically help overcome fear by demonstrating “the worst that can happen.” This approach helps to normalize the process and lessen the perceived danger.
Alex Honnold notes
Alex Honnold brain scan
The Role of Belief and Relaxation
Collins also addressed the use of substances like beer or marijuana, sometimes employed by skateboarders like Dustin Dollin to help with big tricks. He stated that if an individual believes it will help, it likely will. These substances can help to alleviate tension, which can interfere with trick execution. He emphasized that releasing unnecessary tension can positively impact performance. This is similar to feeling more relaxed and confident in a social situation after a drink.
Neen Williams pre commitment gif
However, the most crucial element in Collins’ guidance was the value of visualization. He uses the method of imagining “two steps ahead” of their physical capabilities. So, for a skater recovering from a broken ankle, this would involve visualizing themselves walking without crutches, then balancing, and finally jogging. As the skater heals and begins to skate again, this visualization progresses to them successfully landing the gap they had previously feared and then progressing to even bigger tricks.
In conjunction with this, he advocates for physical training to match the mental progression. For example, if the skater needs to be able to absorb the impact of a jump, they should practice related physical exercises. These exercises include two-footed hops over hurdles with a weighted jacket, moving to one-footed hops with a weighted jacket, and finally incorporating the weighted jacket into their skate sessions. To reinforce the process, Collins suggests repeatedly watching footage of themselves landing the target trick and focusing on the positive feeling of the landing.
Jaws’ Intuitive Approach
We sought insight from Jaws, a skater renowned for conquering massive gaps. It turns out that Jaws intuitively uses similar visualization techniques. Instead of visualizing the roll away, Jaws focuses on trying the trick first. Then, he focuses on the feeling of the landing and visualizes the roll away. He also emphasizes the importance of immediately attempting the trick when arriving at the spot. Additionally, Jaws utilizes a motivational “connection” with his filmer, involving a hand interlock which he believes brings positive energy. This highlights how mindset and ritual can play a significant role in managing fear.
Jaws deploying the connection
Key Takeaways
Overcoming fear in skateboarding involves more than just raw courage; it requires a strategic approach. Here are the key takeaways:
- Methodical Visualization: Practice visualizing each step, imagining success in detail, and even processing the potential challenges.
- Positive Affirmation: Seek encouragement and celebrate your progress.
- Escalating Conditioning: Gradually increase the difficulty of your physical training to match your mental goals.
Ultimately, whether you adopt a structured approach or opt to skate for enjoyment, understanding how your mind works in relation to fear can empower you to push your limits and become a more confident skater. Just remember to avoid this horrible gif before your next skate session.
