Why 99% of Skaters Quit

Skateboarding is cool, but if you've been around the skateboarding scene, you've probably noticed that a lot of people give it a shot, but only a select few stick with it. Have you ever wondered why this is the case? In this article, we're going to dive deep into the reasons why 99% of skaters eventually hang up their decks.

The Initial Struggles

The first hurdle most aspiring skaters face is mastering the basics. Balancing on a skateboard, pushing, and learning to ollie can be a frustrating, humbling experience. Many new skaters are unprepared for the effort and perseverance required to conquer these fundamentals. Impatience often takes over, and they throw in the towel before they've even given it a fair shot.

Fear of Injury

Skateboarding is not without its risks. Many beginners are plagued by the fear of getting hurt. The painful scrapes, bruises, and the dreaded "skater's ankle" can be intimidating. While safety gear is available to mitigate some of these risks, not everyone is willing to embrace the "no pain, no gain" mentality. This fear of injury is one of the prime culprits behind the high dropout rate.

External Pressure

For some skaters, external pressures can lead to quitting. Parents, significant others, or friends may not fully understand the allure of skateboarding, and they may discourage the practice, worried about the perceived dangers or the lack of traditional achievements. This external pressure can wear down skaters over time, causing them to throw in the towel.

Burnout

Believe it or not, burnout can affect skaters too. Just like any other activity, overdoing it can lead to loss of interest. Skaters who put too much pressure on themselves to improve quickly or chase sponsors may find themselves losing the joy they initially found on their boards.

Life Happens

Adulting is real, and as skaters grow older, they often have to face life's responsibilities like jobs, bills, and family obligations. Time and financial constraints can make it challenging to keep up with skateboarding. It's tough to juggle these real-world concerns with late-night skate sessions.

Lack of Support

Support is crucial in any endeavor, and skateboarding is no different. Skaters who lack a supportive community or friends who share their passion might find it difficult to keep their motivation high. Being part of a community that fosters growth and learning is key to keeping skaters rolling.

Unrealistic Expectations

Many newcomers to skateboarding have unrealistic expectations, often fueled by the highlight reels of professional skaters. They expect to progress at lightning speed and master tricks with ease. When reality hits and they realize it takes countless hours of practice and persistence to improve, some skaters get disheartened and quit.

In summary

Skateboarding is a beautiful, challenging, and deeply rewarding pursuit. However, it's not for everyone, and the high dropout rate reflects the unique nature of the sport. It takes patience, dedication, and a love for the ride to keep pushing through the inevitable struggles and setbacks.

If you're a skater who has considered throwing in the towel, take a moment to reflect on your own journey. Remember why you started skateboarding in the first place and how it makes you feel. The 99% who quit might never experience the sheer joy of landing that first kickflip or conquering their local skatepark. The challenges are part of the ride, and the fun is worth it.