Skateboard Tricks and Tips: How to 50:50 Grind

The 50-50 is usually the first grind or slide ever learnt and involves sticking both trucks to a ledge, coping or rail and sliding/grinding along. To do this trick approach the grindable object at about a 30 degree angle or less (the smaller the angle the smoother the grind, but it's often easier to approach at a big angle.) Ollie up onto the ledge and push your back foot out so it lands or the edge (heaps of people don't do that and thus only the front truck gets on. This makes it heaps easier to balance for longer grinds and you will also grind better this way. Cruise along and as you feel your momentum slow shift your weight to the back kick, drop off and roll away.

How to 50:50 Grind Illustration

How to 50-50 Grind

1. Find a good sized ledge, rain or curb to practice on. Make sure it’s not too high and the surface is smooth enough
2. Approach your target, with your feet set up in an ollie position. You should approach at no more than a 45 degree angle at a moderate speed
   
   
3. Be sure to keep your eyes on the target, and know exactly where you want to jump onto.
   Pop your board into a clean ollie and lock your trucks onto your target.
4. Bend your knees slightly as you land on to your target

6. Keep balanced as you ride out the grind

7. When you want to get off, you can do one of two things. You can either lift your nose slightly and pivot off, or you can ollie off. You should definitely learn the pivot off first before trying the ollie off.

How to 50-50 Grind Video Tutorial: