Ten Steps to Learn How to Ride a Hoverboard

Self-balancing boards look effortless in the hands of an experienced rider, but almost everyone wobbles on their first attempt. The good news is that the learning curve is short if you take it in stages. This countdown breaks the process into ten steps, starting with preparation and ending with the mindset that gets you rolling smoothly.

Before you step on: steps 10 to 7

10. Focus. Pick a time when you are not rushed or distracted. Balancing takes attention, and a wandering mind is when people tend to tip off.

9. Read the manual. Boards differ in start-up sequences, calibration routines, speed modes and indicator lights. Ten minutes with the instructions answers most beginner questions and covers the manufacturer's safety guidance.

8. Charge fully. A full battery gives you plenty of practice time and avoids the board slowing or alerting you in the middle of a session. Charge it on a hard surface, away from anything flammable, and unplug it when complete.

7. Power on. Find the power button, switch the board on while it rests on level ground, and wait for the indicator to show it is ready. Some models run a short self-check first.

Getting aboard: steps 6 to 4

6. Gear up and set your stance. A helmet and wrist guards are worth wearing while you learn, along with flat, closed shoes. Choose a smooth, open space with no traffic, and plan to keep your feet parallel and pointing forward rather than angled.

5. First foot. Place your dominant foot on one footpad, close to the centre of the board rather than near the wheel housing. Keep your weight mostly on the ground foot for now.

4. Second foot. In one smooth motion, bring the other foot up onto its pad, positioned a little further out toward the wheel. Many boards light an indicator when they sense both feet. Stand tall, look ahead and keep your knees slightly relaxed.

Moving and stopping: steps 3 and 2

3. Turning. Small movements do the steering. To go left, press gently forward with the toes of your right foot; to go right, do the same with your left. Practise slow circles before trying anything faster.

2. Stepping off. Come to a stop, then step backward off the board with your dominant foot first, followed by the other. Repeat getting on and off a few times until it feels natural. If you are still choosing a board, you can check here for a selection of models and accessories that suit new riders.

The final step

1. Keep at it. Nobody masters a hoverboard in the first minute. Short, regular sessions build balance faster than one long, frustrating one. Celebrate the small wins, such as your first clean turn or a smooth dismount, and the rest will follow. Check local rules before riding in public, since where these boards may be used varies from place to place.