---
title: Regular or goofy
image: regular-or-goofy.mp4
image_source: https://youtu.be/qUw3lKQsDYM
image_credit: Skate Tutors
image_credit_url: https://www.youtube.com/@SkateTutorsLLC
image_title: "Goofy or Regular Skater? 3 Ways to Find Out!"
image_clip: https://youtu.be/qUw3lKQsDYM?4:42-4:44
authors:
- ManVsBoard
updated: 2026-10-15
skill: tell you my preferred stance
tags: [fundamentals]
---

## Which stance are you?

Your skateboarding stance refers to which foot is at the front of the board, and which is at the back. Left foot forward is called **Regular**. Right foot forward is called **Goofy**.

Either stance is fine, and neither holds you back in any way. It's just what's comfortable to you. Which way do you prefer?


## How to find out
Heres 3 methods you can use to figure out what stance you are. 

1. **The step-up test** - Stand facing a step with your feet slightly apart. Step onto the step. If you lead with your left foot first you are probably **regular** stance, and right foot first would be **goofy**!
2. **The Fall Forward Test** - Stand on the ground with both feet together. Lean forward until one of your legs steps out to catch you. If it's your left foot then you are probably **regular**.
3. **The Run and Slide!** Imagine you are running and then sliding on ice. Which foot leads? If it's right foot you are probably **goofy**.

**Other terms and stances**

**Fakie** Riding backwards in either stance.

**Switch** Riding your non-dominant stance.

**Mongo** Pushing with your front foot in either stance.

**Learn more here!**

https://youtu.be/qUw3lKQsDYM

*[Skate Tutors](https://www.youtube.com/@SkateTutorsLLC) · [Goofy or Regular Skater? 3 Ways to Find Out!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUw3lKQsDYM)*

## Common mistakes

- Obsessing too much over which stance you are at the beginning. Just do what feels right at the time, your dominant side will take over eventually. Worst case, you get good at both sides!


## How to know you've got it

Always favouring one stance. The other stance (switch) is really difficult compared to your preferred stance.