---
title: Carving (Turn by leaning)
image: carving.mp4
image_source: https://youtu.be/iBcIUPX-Y08
image_credit: SIKANA English
image_credit_url: https://www.youtube.com/@SikanaEnglish
image_title: "How to Carve: Turn by Leaning | Skateboarding"
image_clip: https://youtu.be/iBcIUPX-Y08?0:18-0:20.4
skill: turn by leaning my weight forwards or backwards
tags: [fundamentals]
switch: true
authors:
- ManVsBoard
updated: 2026-10-08
---

## What this trick is

Carving is the name given to turning on your skateboard by leaning. It uses the mechanism of the trucks to steer in the direction that pressure is applied. 

## Before you try it

Be comfortable riding forwards at a low to moderate speed.

Ensure your trucks are loose enough that your deck leans and the wheels steer when intent pressure is applied, but not so loose that they wobble when riding or the deck touches the wheel (wheelbite) when trying to turn.
 
## How to do it

*for goofy stance reverse left and right!*

1. The setup - Your usual riding position, travelling fast enough that you will roll for at least 5 seconds without pushing.
2. To turn **Left** lean backwards so your bodyweight is through your heels
3. To turn **Right** lean forwards so your bodyweight is though the balls of your feet.
4. Reset your weight to the neutral position to continue moving forwards

Learn more here!

https://youtu.be/iBcIUPX-Y08

*[SIKANA English](https://www.youtube.com/@SikanaEnglish) · [How to Carve: Turn by Leaning | Skateboarding](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBcIUPX-Y08)*

##Helpful tips!##

Lean in a smooth, graduated way. Start with light pressure and increase the lean to turn harder 

## Common mistakes

- Moving too slowly and running out of momentum as you turn

- Leaning too hard too quickly. A sudden change of direction, when not used to it, can throw you off the board

- Trucks too tight, nothing happens when you lean

- Trucks too loose, board wobbles and turns unintentionally

- Cheap skateboard - trucks do not function correctly

## How to know you've got it

Carving with confidence and style. Can navigate and cruise around with control and ease!