You can learn to skimboard in five easy steps but you'll need a review of the basics first. One of the important things that are overlooked is attitude. Are you a person who can't stand criticism? Are you afraid of trying new things? Fear not. Skimboarding is fun, after all, why does everyone like doing it in the first place.

People learn to skimboard because they can have a hobby at the beach that does not cost a lot of money and they get a little exercise. No you don't have to do push-ups or sit-ups. Yes, you will have to run a little bit (you may want to get some exercise before going to the beach but that is your choice).

Some tips to keep in mind are:

1. Anticipate the waves so you can launch you board in the right place.

2. Jog and launch the board by dropping it onto a wave that has already broken on the shore.

3. Run behind the board, then jump and land lightly on the board with one foot in from of the other - just like you are skateboarding. If this does not work pretend you are surfing, lol.

4. Bend your knees and lower you center of gravity slightly.

"Hey, no problem I can Learn to Skimboard in an Afternoon," you say.

That's right! You can.

Really, skim boarding more about trying than crying. A lot of people go to a great deal of effort trying to get good at something first and have fun at a hobby second. It's the competitive nature in us all that can sometimes turn a good time into a stressful one. So live a little and skimboard for the fun of it.

Buying a new skimboard is fairly inexpensive. If you look around you can get one at a discount store for under $20 or go to a surf shop and still get away with a board for under $100. Surfboard wax will cost a couple of dollars and then you are set. Just remember that good pair of shorts is essential unless you plan on surfing at a nude beach - your decision.

Many beaches rent equipment so you shouldn't sweat it too much if the local shops are all sold out now. Who knows, if you live in the right beach town you may be able to pick one up at a garage sale. Some people build their own skimboards, which is not impossible, but you will spend extra time and money getting the materials together.

The idea is that the skimboard is oval in shape with the bottom curved slightly like boat. This skimboard gets its name because it skims over the water with the rider on top.

If I can do it you can do too. Have fun at the beach!