I have been skateboarding since 1976. I sometimes spend 40 hours a week in skateparks. I believe in skateboarding. I teach a type of skateboarding that is fun. I emphasize fast skating, carving bowls, and safety. I have lesson plans for skaters at all levels. Most beginners have two equipment issues. The first is their shoes. You should be wearing tight fitting shoes that have a thin soul. Converse brand “Chuck Taylor” low tops are a perfect shoe. Any generic version of this shoe is usually good. The second issue is hardness of the bushings in your trucks. I recommend buying Bones Brand bushings, Get the softest version. They are color coded with a blue ring. Call ahead to make sure the shop has them. Most shops do not carry them. The shops will try to sell you on something else, Do not buy anything else. Shop EVO in Seattle. They had them last week. I will help you navigate the skateboarding world. You are the future of skateboarding and I will treat you as such.