How to Ride Fakie and Why It Helps Your Progression

If you've been skating for a while, you've probably heard other skaters talk about riding fakie. At first, it can feel a little confusing because you're rolling backwards while standing in your normal stance. It feels unusual in the beginning, but it's one of the best skills you can learn.

Getting comfortable riding fakie improves your balance, builds confidence, and makes learning new tricks much easier. It's a simple skill that can have a big impact on your progression.

What Is Fakie?

Riding fakie means you're rolling backwards while keeping your usual stance.

For example, if you normally ride regular, you'll still stand regular, but the skateboard will be moving backwards. This is different from riding switch, where you change your stance completely.

Start on Flat Ground

The best place to learn fakie is on smooth, flat ground.

Give yourself a gentle push and let the skateboard roll backwards. Keep your knees slightly bent, stay relaxed, and keep your weight centred over the board. Looking in the direction you're travelling instead of down at your feet will also help you stay balanced.

Get Comfortable Before Learning Tricks

Before trying fakie tricks, spend some time simply riding.

Practice rolling in a straight line, making gentle turns, and getting used to how the skateboard feels. The more comfortable you are riding fakie, the easier every trick will become later.

There's no need to rush. A strong foundation always makes learning new skills easier.

Start with Simple Fakie Tricks

Once riding fakie feels natural, try a few basic tricks like a fakie kickturn or a fakie ollie.

These tricks will help you understand how the board reacts while rolling backwards and improve your overall board control.

Why Fakie Is Worth Learning

Learning to ride fakie makes you a more complete skater.

It improves your balance, teaches better board control, and gives you more confidence in different situations. As you progress, you'll find that many tricks have fakie versions, so getting comfortable now will make learning those tricks much easier.

Final Thoughts

Riding fakie can feel awkward at first, but that's completely normal. The more you practise, the more natural it becomes, and before long you'll wonder why you didn't start sooner.

If you're looking for a new setup, don't compare skateboard price alone. A quality skateboard will feel more stable and responsive, making it easier to practise new skills and build confidence. Whether you're buying your first skateboard for adults or upgrading your current setup, the right board will help you enjoy every session and keep progressing.