I’ve been skating for years, and pushing mongo has always been a source of debate. Is it cheating? Is it inefficient?
In this post, I’ll break down the mechanics of pushing mongo, discuss the pros and cons, and ultimately help you decide if it’s the right pushing style for you.
What is Pushing mongo skateboarding?
Pushing Mongo is the act of propelling yourself forward on a skateboard by pushing off with your front foot while your back foot remains planted, is generally considered less efficient and stylish than pushing with your back foot. Here’s a breakdown of why:
Inefficiency:
- Reduced Power: Pushing with your front foot disrupts your natural body mechanics. You’re not using your strongest leg muscles and your body weight isn’t optimally positioned for generating forward momentum. This results in less power with each push, making it harder to gain speed.
- Increased Effort: Pushing Mongo often requires more effort to achieve the same amount of forward progress compared to pushing with your back foot.
Awkwardness:
- Unbalanced Stance: Pushing Mongo throws off your center of gravity, leading to an awkward and unbalanced stance. This makes it harder to maintain control, especially at higher speeds or on uneven terrain.
- Difficulty Turning: The weight distribution while pushing Mongo makes it more challenging to steer and maneuver the board effectively.
Trick Difficulty:
- Poor Foot Positioning: Pushing Mongo leaves your feet in an unfavorable position for setting up and performing tricks. It takes longer to reposition your feet, hindering smooth transitions and increasing the difficulty of executing maneuvers.
Aesthetics:
- Uncoordinated Appearance: Many skateboarders find pushing Mongo to look clunky and uncoordinated. It disrupts the smooth, flowing motion that is often associated with stylish skateboarding.
Pros of Pushing Mongo
Comfort and Convenience
For some, pushing Mongo may feel more natural or comfortable, especially in specific situations like tight spaces or when navigating obstacles.
Switch Stance
It can be easier to push Mongo while riding switch (opposite stance), allowing for smoother transitions and better control.
Unique Style
Some skaters intentionally incorporate pushing Mongo into their style, adding an element of individuality and defying conventional norms.
Learning Tool
Pushing Mongo can be a valuable tool for beginners to develop balance and coordination before transitioning to traditional pushing techniques.
Why is it called mongo pushing
The term “Mongo” in skateboarding originated from the word “mongoloid,” which was a derogatory term for people with Down syndrome.
- Historical Context:
- In the past, the term “mongoloid” was used to describe people with Down syndrome.
- This term is now considered highly offensive and has been replaced by “people with Down syndrome.”
- Connection to Skateboarding:
- The term “Mongo” came to be used in skateboarding to describe the act of pushing with your front foot because it was seen as awkward and unconventional, similar to how the term “mongoloid” was used to describe people with Down syndrome in a derogatory way.
How to stop pushing mongo
To stop pushing Mongo, focus on these key points:
- Conscious Awareness:
- Recognize the Habit: Become acutely aware of when you’re pushing Mongo. Pay close attention to your foot placement and pushing motion.
- Mental Reminder: Constantly remind yourself to push with your back foot. This consistent mental reinforcement will help break the habit.
- Practice Proper Technique:
- Start Slowly: Begin by practicing pushing with your back foot in a controlled environment like a smooth, empty parking lot.
- Focus on Body Positioning: Maintain a balanced stance and focus on shifting your weight effectively to generate power.
- Smooth Transitions: Practice smooth transitions between pushing and riding to develop a fluid motion.
- Consistent Effort:
- Regular Practice: Make a conscious effort to push with your back foot every time you skate. Consistent practice is crucial for breaking the Mongo habit.
- Don’t Give Up: It may feel awkward or unnatural at first, but with persistent effort, pushing with your back foot will become more comfortable and natural.
- Seek Guidance:
- Watch Experienced Skaters: Observe how experienced skaters push and try to emulate their technique.
- Ask for Feedback: Ask a more experienced skater for feedback on your pushing technique. They can identify any areas for improvement.
- Embrace the Challenge:
- View it as a Skill to Develop: Approach learning to push with your back foot as a skill to master. Celebrate your progress and enjoy the process of improvement.
Pro skaters that push mongo
While pushing Mongo is generally discouraged in skateboarding, some professional skaters have been known to push Mongo:
- Karl Watson: A well-known professional skateboarder who has pushed Mongo throughout his career.
- Mark Appleyard: Another professional skater who has been known to push Mongo.
It’s important to note that these are exceptions. Most professional skateboarders prioritize pushing with their back foot for efficiency and style.
How to do Pushing Mongo
In Summary:
While there might be niche situations where pushing Mongo can be advantageous, the inherent inefficiencies, awkwardness, and impact on trick performance make it generally less desirable than pushing with your back foot within the skateboarding community.