Hoverboards are exciting, innovative, and not as challenging to ride as you would imagine. And it doesn’t matter whether it is your first board that you just unboxed or whether you are attempting to ride at the house of a friend; the secret with riding confidently is to know the basics, including the art of stepping on safely to smooth turns.
In this tutorial you will learn how to ride a hoverboard step by step. And in case you have never tried it or even need it as a refresher: all that you want to know is gathered here: safety hints, balance methods, etc.
What You Need Before You Start
Before stepping on, make sure you’re equipped for safety and success.
- A charged hoverboard (low battery = unstable ride)
- Strait plane (the floor of the room, the driveway, asphalt)
- Safety protection: helmet, elbow, and knee pads
It’s also wise to choose a board from a reputable UK store , where models come with safety certifications and beginner-friendly features like speed limiters and training modes.
Understanding Hoverboard Controls
Hoverboards work by sensing pressure and tilt from your feet and shifting motor responses accordingly. There are no handheld controls—the entire movement is based on your body.
- Lean forward: Go forward
- Lean back: Reverse or slow down
- Shift weight right or left: Turn in that direction
- Keep an even balance: Stay still
The gyroscope and accelerometer inside the board constantly adjust to your posture and movement. You don’t need to apply force—just subtle leans.
How to Step On and Balance
This is the point where the majority of the novices will start to get nervous, but by sitting and keeping a posture, you will be a pro shortly.
Step 1: Place the hoverboard on a flat surface.
Avoid carpets or sloped surfaces. The flatter the ground, the easier your first ride.
Step 2: Turn the Hoverboard On
Most boards balance themselves when powered up. Make sure the lights are steady and there are no error beeps.
Step 3: Place One Foot on the Board
Begin with your dominant foot (right-handed people like to do the right foot first). Set it down and then wait until it is steady on the board.
Step 4: Step Up with the Second Foot
Carefully, but rapidly, put your other foot on the headboard. Place your two feet flat on the ground and apart by the width of your shoulders. Do not lean back; keep straight and leave the board to balance.
Step 5: Find Your Balance
Relax your knees slightly and keep your weight centered. Most hoverboards will automatically stay level—just give it a few seconds.
Learning to Move Forward and Backward
Once balanced, moving is all about control. Start slowly and build confidence.
- Gently lean forward with your ankles (not your whole body)
- The hoverboard will begin moving ahead—don’t panic
- To slow down or stop, gradually lean backward
- Keep your knees slightly bent to absorb movement
Avoid sudden jerks or sharp leaning—small shifts make all the difference.
How to Turn Left and Right
Turning feels awkward at first but becomes natural with practice.
- To turn right, push your left toes down slightly
- To turn left, push your right toes down slightly
- Keep your movements light and steady—don’t stomp or twist
- Practice slow, wide turns first before trying sharper angles
Eventually, you’ll be able to rotate 360 degrees on the spot just by shifting your feet.
Dismounting Safely
Stepping off can feel trickier than stepping on—here’s how to do it without falling.
- Come to a complete stop
- Step backward with your non-dominant foot first (not forward—that can launch the board)
- Then remove your dominant foot
Most hoverboard accidents happen when people step forward off the board—avoid that instinct!
Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
Hoverboards are intuitive, but some common missteps can throw you off balance or cause frustration.
Don’t:
- Step on without powering the board
- Lean too far forward or backward
- Ride on uneven terrain too soon
- Ignore low battery warnings
- Use without safety gear (especially kids)
Do:
- Practice on smooth surfaces
- Keep knees slightly bent
- Look ahead, not down at your feet
- Learn to fall safely—tuck and roll if needed
Tips for Building Confidence
Hoverboarding feels unnatural at first, but consistent practice makes a big difference. Use these tips to improve faster:
- Practice near a wall or railing for initial support
- Ask a friend to spot you until you feel stable
- Start with short sessions (5–10 minutes)
- Use a hoverboard with training modes or speed limits
- Reward small wins—like learning to turn or mount without help
Balance improves quickly—most people master riding in 1–2 days of casual practice.
Best Hoverboards for Beginners
Here are some great beginner-friendly models to consider from a reliable UK store:
| Model | Wheel Size | Top Speed | Beginner Mode | Ideal For |
| iHoverboard H1 | 6.5″ | 6.8 mph | Yes | Kids and first-timers |
| iHoverboard H2 | 6.5″ | 7.5 mph | Yes | Teens and light adults |
| iHoverboard H8 | 8.5″ | 9 mph | Yes | All-terrain beginners |
All of these models include self-balancing features, colorful LED lights, and built-in Bluetooth speakers—perfect for new riders looking to glide with confidence and style.
Accessories That Make Learning Easier
Enhance your riding experience and safety with helpful accessories.
Essentials:
- Helmet with LED lights
- Hoverboard seat attachment (for younger kids)
- Carry bag for storage and transport
- Grip pads or traction covers for added foot stability
- Training wheels for early practice
Many of these accessories are available from the same UK store where you purchase your hoverboard.
Conclusion
Riding a hoverboard is not a scary task to learn. After a couple of practice sessions and the right safety equipment, along with a model that is easy enough to ride on, just a couple of days later, you will find yourself gliding through the waters like a pro.
Always begin gradually, maintain an easy position, and have fun. Hoverboards are not only a popular device but also a cool means to move, travel, and make your personal statement. The moment you decide to purchase or update, the best starter hoverboards are simply just a click of the button on the UK store.
