Self-balancing scooters or hoverboards have risen to popularity, especially with the young generation. It’s not only cool but also a very convenient way to move around. Ultimately, it’s a lot of fun! 

If you just received your own or if you’re planning to buy one, here’s a quick guide on how to ride a hoverboard step by step. It may look easy to ride one, but it takes lots of practice to ride it correctly and safely. Hopefully, this guide will help you learn how to ride a balance scooter or hoverboard.

How does a balance scooter or hoverboard work?

In another article, we have already detailed how a balance scooter works. However, here’s the gist to give you an idea. 

A balance scooter or hoverboard does not use any control or remote to move. Rather, it uses sensors to detect where the riders want to go. Thanks to the sensors, riders can control the hoverboard’s direction and speed by pushing down their feet or toes back and forth and left and right. Riders only need to lean slightly as the sensors are quite sensitive. In turn, this gives riders precise movements and directions.

How to ride a balance scooter or hoverboard

Based on how a balance scooter or hoverboard works, the key to riding one lies in the rider’s ability to balance on the board. So, keep in mind that balance is important as you learn how to ride a balance scooter or hoverboard.

1. Getting on the hoverboard

• Start by turning on the hoverboard and placing it on a flat and even surface directly in front of you. You can practice in a space where you can grab onto something for support. 
• Next, step onto the hoverboard with one foot. The board can move as soon as it detects pressure so be careful and make sure the surface is flat.
• Then, step up onto the board with the other foot. Feel free to grab onto a pole, chair, or another person for support. 
• Stand up straight, position your feet far apart, and try to balance yourself on the e-scooter. This stance gives the best control.
• If your body tenses up, try to relax, look ahead, and focus on standing.

2. Moving and stopping on the hoverboard

• Once you’re stable, slightly lean forwards to move forwards. Be careful not to bend your waist or upper body. The movement should be in your ankles or toes.
• Turn by pushing down your toes. To turn left, push down your left feet or toes, and to turn right, push down your right feet or toes. The more you push down, the sharper the turns.
• To stop, simply lean back or push your heels down. When stopping, consider how fast you are going, since you might fall once you suddenly lean back. Practice stopping safely to get the hang of it.

3. Getting off the hoverboard

• If you want to get off, stop the hoverboard safely, and step backwards. 
• Avoid stepping forwards as you can lose control of the board and fall off. 

Tips when riding a hoverboard

Here are more tips on how to ride a hoverboard for beginners for added protection and safety.

Wear safety gear

When riding any micro-mobile vehicle, always wear a helmet and other safety gear. A simple bicycle helmet will do as long as you have protection for your head. Other protective gears that you may want to invest in are elbow and knee pads, wrist guards, and a tailbone protector.

These will protect your body in case of a collision or falling and help you avoid injuries. Remember that balance scooters or hoverboards can travel 8-10 mph which can be dangerous to riders, especially when unprotected.

Check its calibration

Take note that manufacturing and shipping can affect your unit’s calibration. Test yours before getting on it. To do this, lift one wheel and press the footpad with one hand. If it spins and it doesn’t shake, then it’s calibrated. Otherwise, you need to calibrate it.

To calibrate your hoverboard, place it on a flat and even surface and turn off the power. Press and hold the power button until it beeps. When the lights flash, it’s done. It’s as simple as that! This usually works for most brands. Read the user manual to be sure how to calibrate your specific unit.

Keep a good posture

Having a good posture while riding is key to better balance and control. Make sure not to bend your knees, but also avoid making them too straight or stiff. Also, make good use of your core while standing on the board for better control and balance. Lastly, just relax so you can move freely using the board.

Don’t look down

Finally, keep your eyes in front of you. Even when you’re getting on the board, focus on the path in front of you. Don’t overthink it. Looking down will also affect your posture and cause problems as you move. Moreover, looking down helps you see where you are going and avoid obstacles and pedestrians. So, just fix your eyes on the road and allow your body to go where your eyes will lead you.

Be safe and have fun!

Some people find it easy to ride a balance scooter or hoverboard, while others take time on the board. Either way, always remember to ride it properly and safely, especially when riding in public or crowded areas. More importantly, have fun while riding so you can learn faster!