How to stay safe while onewheeling

Though riders love onewheeling for the thrill and adventure, the dangers of it are unavoidable.

A nosedive can cause severe injury and, at times, even death. However, by taking some preventive measures, you can stay safe while enjoying the ride.  

In this article, you’ll learn about the risks of onewheeling and how to protect yourself from them. 

Dangers of onewheeling 

While onewheeling, riders may face the danger of a nosedive that can lead to severe injuries. Nosedives often occur when the rider ignores the pushback.

A pushback occurs when the rider leans forward to accelerate, but the board continues to push the rider back. During the pushback, your board's nose rises as a warning sign.

This indicates that your board is approaching its limit, and if you try to push it further, its internal gyroscope may fail, leading to a loss of balance. 

Since onewheel boards often go off-balance at high speed, it can cause serious injuries. Thus, your response is vital when there is a pushback. When you notice any signs of a pushback, lean back and slow down to prevent a nosedive.  

For safe onewheeling, make sure you’re buying a high-quality board. If you're looking for a onewheel in Australia, check this site.  

Safety gear and equipment  

Whether you're a professional or are new to the sport, wearing proper safety gear is essential to avoid injury.

While one wheeling, make sure that you wear a helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads to get extra cushioning and protection. Ensure that you wear shoes that will stay on your feet and provide grip on the board.  

Safety tips for onewheeling 

Here are some safety measures to keep in mind when you’re onewheeling.

·     Set up the digital shaping 

Experts suggest starting with two specific modes: mission and delirium. Setting your board on delirium will make it easier for you, as a newcomer, to operate as they’re more responsive and less stiff.

These modes help riders turn better. Thus, you’ll feel that you have more control while you’re using the board.  

·     Stay centred 

While onewheeling, make sure that to remain centered and find your balance on the board.

Avoid leading using your head and keep your head over the wheel. Don't lean forward if you want to accelerate, as this will make it difficult for you to identify the pushback.  

·     Don't exceed the speed limit of 15 mph 

The technology that helps you stay upright on a onewheel also provides a sense of security for the new riders. This gives new riders the confidence to ride fast, but it can also lead to accidents and falls.

A onewheel is meant for cruising and sharp turn; it’s not meant for speed. Thus, don't go more than 15 miles per hour.  

·     Don't accelerate while going uphill  

While staying under the speed limit of 15 mph may protect you from nosedives, other factors may overload the board and lead to a nosedive.

Such factors include the rider's weight, riding up slopes, or going against the strong wind.  

·     Don't ride in crowded places

Make sure to choose safe places for riding to prevent injury.

To ensure safety, make sure to check all the site and use your board only in areas that are smooth and free of debris. Ensure that you don’t ride in a crowded place or during wet weather.  

When you’re just learning to ride, use a driveway that’s free from traffic or the beginner’s section of the skate park. When riding in a skate park, make sure to obey all the rules. 

·     Practice safe riding  

Falling is part of the process, and it’s inevitable for beginners. However, to stay safe, it’s essential to wear proper protective gear and learn how to fall safely so that you don’t get injured seriously.

To fall properly, practice falling on soft grass, try to fall on the fleshy parts of your body and roll instead of falling with your arms and hands, and make sure to master simple moves before you move to complicated ones.  

Conclusion

Like most sports, onewheeling is adventurous and fun. However, when done without practice, you may end up injuring yourself seriously. This can lead to severe injuries and sometimes even fatalities.  

To prevent injuries while one wheeling, it’s essential to use proper protective gear and learn how to ride using simple movements before moving to more elaborate styles. Start by practicing in places that are smooth and free from traffic.