Tony Hawk has been quoted as saying that “skateboarding is an art form, a lifestyle, and a sport.” Known as “Birdman” to his friends and admiring fans, Tony was among the first pioneers of skateboarding. While he’s retired professionally, he still rides at age 54. Today 11 million people world-wide picking up their boards on a regular basis. Clearly, Tony and his surfing friends clearly started something big.
Next Gen Surfers
That’s right, surfers. The first skateboards were created in the 1940s by California surfers. When the waves weren’t good enough to surf, these fish out of water would take to the streets on wooden boards with wheels attached. These original “asphalt surfers” as they were know went on to create their own lifestyle and dress codes, and have a lasting effect on music, dance, and street culture.
Lots of Benefits
Today, people of all ages skateboard – for exercise, to get places, and to have fun. Other than your board, all you need is a good pair of shoes. There’s no real skill required – and it’s an affordable hobby. Plus, it’s a great workout and relieves stress at the same time. This recently added Olympic sport (Tokyo 2020) is also tremendously social. A study done by Tattiya Maruco of the University of Southern California found that skateboarding communities around the country develop extreme bonds among diverse social groups. “No matter who you are, no matter what age you are, if you skateboard, you are a part of a community,” she explained. “A city council-members or even investment bankers can be a skateboarder, and those connections are important.”
Making Moves
While you don’t have to become a master skateboarder and can thoroughly enjoy and reap the benefits from just boarding around your block, the sky is the limit! You can take your skill level – learning tricks and jumps – as far as you want. It’s up to you!
At 100 Year Lifestyle we believe that the right move to make is the one that interests you, pushes your boundaries, and contributes to your healthy longevity. If this art form and sport appeals to you, maybe you should think about a new type of 4-wheeled transportation? Great idea! A 100 Year Lifestyle provider near you will help to keep you living at 100% for 100 years or more!
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