The term “mongo Skateboarding” has fascinated and mystified beginners and seasoned skaters alike in the unique world of skateboarding. A unique style of pushing the skateboard involves using the front foot and pushing off the ground while keeping the back foot on the board and pushing off the ground with the front foot.
Even though mongo skateboarding is often considered unconventional, it has advantages and tricks that, when mastered, can enhance a skater’s ability to skate. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with a complete understanding of the intricacies of the Mongo skateboarding style, how it is defined, its pros and cons, and how you can master it.
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Understanding Mongo Pushing
What Is Mongo Pushing?
As the name implies, mongo pushing refers to a form of skateboarding in which the rider uses their front foot to propel the board forward as he or she skates. The skater’s back foot is planted on the tail of the board to push the skateboard off the ground, as opposed to the more common style of pushing which uses the back foot to push the skateboard off the ground. It may seem odd to those who are unfamiliar with this technique, but it has been a staple in skateboarding culture for decades and is still used today.
History and Origins of Mongo Pushing
Historically, mongo skateboarding pushing has its origins in the early days of skateboarding, when it was used for a variety of purposes. When skateboarding was still evolving in the 1970s and 1980s, riders experimented with a variety of techniques and styles to see what worked best for them.
The mongo-pushing style of skateboarding has developed into a distinct style of skating, often used by skaters who want to maintain greater control over their boards. Even though the pushing style was not as popular as the regular pushing style, certain skaters who appreciated its unique approach found it to be highly popular.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Mongo Pushing
Advantages
- Increased Stability:
One of the primary advantages of mongo skateboarding pushing is the increased stability it offers. When skaters place their back foot firmly on the board and ride at high speeds, they typically feel more secure and balanced because they feel like their back foot is firmly planted on the board. - Control for Tricks:
Mongo pushing allows for greater control when performing tricks. A rider’s back foot stays on the tail throughout the maneuver, providing a solid base from which to perform maneuvers such as ollies, flips, and other tricks. - Distinctive Style:
For skaters who value individuality, mongo pushing offers a distinctive style that sets them apart from others. There can be a signature move that they can use on their skates that adds a lot of character to their performance.
Disadvantages
- Reduced Maneuverability:
While mongo pushing offers stability, it can also reduce maneuverability. When the feet are positioned in a certain way, it can make it difficult to quickly change directions and navigate tight spaces. - Learning Curve:
For beginners, mongo pushing can be difficult to master. The style is different from regular pushing in that it requires a different set of muscle memory and coordination, which can be a frustrating experience for those who are new to it. - Perception in the Skateboarding Community:
Mongo pushing is sometimes viewed as less stylish or unconventional within the skateboarding community. The use of this technique may be criticized or judged by some skaters, even though it ultimately boils down to one’s taste.
How to Master Mongo Pushing
Step-by-Step Guide to Mongo Pushing
- Find Your Stance:
Begin by determining your stance on the skateboard. To perform mongo pushing effectively, the front foot of the board should be placed on the ground, while the back foot of the board should be placed on the tail of the board. Ensure that you are balanced and secure on your back foot at all times. - Push Off:
Use your front foot to push off the ground, propelling yourself forward. Make sure that you keep your back foot steady on the board and use it to guide the direction of your movement as you move forward. - Transition to Riding Position:
Once you’ve gained enough momentum, quickly transition to a riding position by placing your front foot back on the board. As you position your feet over the bolts, you should position your front foot near the front bolts, while your back foot should be near the tail bolts. - Practice Balancing:
Balancing is crucial in Mongo pushing. You must maintain your balance while riding the board, concentrating on keeping your body centered over the board at all times. By doing this, you will be able to maintain stability and control while you are driving. - Mastering Turns:
Turning can be challenging in mongo pushing due to the positioning of the feet. Lean your body slowly in the direction you wish to go to practice making gradual turns. When you practice and spend time practicing, you will be able to make sharper turns as time goes on. - Incorporate Tricks:
Once you’ve mastered the basics of mongo pushing, start incorporating tricks into your routine. Using your back foot, you can perform ollies, flips, and other tricks by using your back foot. As a result of the stability that mongo pushing provides when performing technical maneuvers, it can prove to be a valuable asset.
Common Misconceptions About Mongo Pushing
Myth: Mongo Pushing Is Only for Beginners
Mongo pushing is a style of skating that is often associated with beginners. However, it’s a misconception that only novice skaters use this style of skating. Many experienced skaters have embraced mongo pushing as their preferred method of skating as they appreciate the unique control and stability that it provides. There is no doubt that this is a valid and effective technique that can be mastered by skaters at all levels of experience.
Myth: Mongo Pushing Is Slower Than Regular Pushing
One of the most common misconceptions about mongo pushing is that it is slower than regular pushing. Even though mongo pushing may require more effort to maintain speed, skilled mongo pushers can achieve the same speeds as regular pushers with the same amount of effort. You must practice and develop the necessary muscle memory and coordination to become proficient.
Tips for Improving Your Mongo Pushing Skills
1. Practice Regularly
To master mongo pushing, you will need to practice consistently, just as you would with any other skill. The best way to practice pushing, balancing, and performing tricks is to set aside time each day to practice. Practicing as much as you can will make you more comfortable and proficient as you go along.
2. Watch and Learn from Others
To learn more about the mongo pushing technique, you may want to observe other skaters who use it. Observe their technique, the positioning of their feet, and how they execute tricks as they perform them. No doubt learning from others can provide valuable insights and help you improve your own skill set.
3. Stay Patient and Persistent
The process of mastering the art of mongo pushing can be difficult, especially if you are used to pushing in a typical manner. To succeed in your practice, you need to be patient and persistent. With time and dedication, you will see improvement even though progress may be slow at first.
4. Experiment with Different Boards and Setups
In addition to the skateboard setup, how comfortable and effective the mongo pushing feels can also be affected by the skateboard setup. The best way to find out which board size, shape, and wheel configurations work for you is to experiment with a variety of them. There is no doubt that a setup that suits your style can make a significant difference to your performance.
Conclusion: Embracing the Unconventional
Even though skateboarding is ever-evolving, the mongo-pushing style remains unique and unconventional, even in an ever-changing world. There are several advantages and challenges associated with the use of this method, even though it may not be as widely accepted as regular pushing.
Skaters can master this technique by understanding its intricacies and dedicating time to practice so that they can add a new dimension to their skating repertoire by mastering this technique. It does not matter if you are a beginner or an experienced skater, mongo pushing is an activity worth exploring and embracing because of its unique style and potential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mongo skateboarding
1. What are some of the things that Mongo is pushing in skateboarding?
In skateboarding, mongo pushing is a style of skateboarding where the skater uses their front foot to push off the ground, while the back foot remains on the board, while the front foot pushes off the ground. In contrast, a more common style of pushing is carried out by using the back foot, instead of the front foot.
2. What is the meaning of the term “mongo pushing”?
Even though the origin of the term “mongo pushing” is unclear, it is believed that it derives from the word “mongoose”, referring to the animal’s quick and agile movements. A skateboarder’s unique way of pushing with their front foot is referred to as skateboarding’s propulsion technique.
3. Can you tell me if mongo pushing is good or bad?
Pushing a mongo is not inherently bad or wrong; it is simply a different way of pushing that is different from other styles of pushing. Some skaters may view it as unconventional, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference and what feels comfortable to you. There are a lot of skaters, both beginners and experts, who use this style of skating effectively.
4. Is it possible to switch from Mongo pushing to regular pushing?
Skaters can indeed switch from mongo pushing to regular pushing with a little practice. Developing the necessary muscle memory and coordination to move between the two styles of skating may take some time and some adjustment on the part of the skater, but many skaters manage to make the transition successfully.
5. What is the difference between mongo pushing and regular pushing?
Pushing with a Mongoose is not necessarily slower than pushing with a regular push. While it may be more difficult for skilled mongo pushers to maintain the same speed, they are capable of achieving similar speeds. Practice is the key to becoming comfortable with the technique and becoming proficient at it as soon as possible.