Grind (Skateboarding)

Grind is a skateboarding trick that involves sliding your board along a rail or ledge, while trying not to faceplant onto the concrete. It is a key feature of modern skateboarding, and has been responsible for many scrapes and bruises (and, let’s be honest, some broken bones) over the years.

The origins of the grind can be traced back to the early days of skateboarding, when a few brave souls first attempted to slide their boards on the edges of swimming pools and other smooth surfaces. These early pioneers quickly realized that grinding was an excellent way to show off your skills and impress your friends (and, if you were lucky, a few cute skater girls).

Over the years, the grind has evolved into a complicated and highly technical maneuver, with skaters performing a wide variety of different types of grinds on all kinds of rails and ledges. There are frontside grinds, backside grinds, 50-50 grinds, 5-0 grinds, and dozens of other variations, each requiring different levels of skill, balance, and bravery.

Unfortunately, as with all extreme sports, there is always a risk of injury when attempting to grind. It is not uncommon for skaters to fall off their boards and land on their backs, shoulders, or heads, causing all sorts of nasty injuries. Some will try to mitigate this risk by wearing helmets, knee pads, and other protective gear, but others prefer to live dangerously and simply hope for the best.

Despite the risks, there is no denying that the grind is one of the coolest and most exciting tricks in skateboarding. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner just starting out, there is nothing quite as exhilarating as sliding your board along a rail, feeling the wind in your hair, and praying that you don’t end up in the emergency room. So if you haven’t tried it yet, give it a shot – who knows, you might just discover your new favorite pastime (or your new least favorite way to break a bone).