From: hubermanlab
Skateboarding has undergone a significant evolution since it first emerged, evolving from a fringe activity into a highly celebrated and diverse sport. This transformation has been significantly shaped by influential figures and events in the skateboarding community. In a talk with Andrew Huberman on the [Huberman Lab Podcast](neuroscience_and_brain_function), Tony Hawk provides insights into how skateboarding culture has developed over the decades.
## Early Days and Perception
In its early days, skateboarding was considered an activity without mainstream appeal. Tony Hawk recalls that when he was emerging as a skater, skateboarding was not held in high regard, and public skate parks were rare. It was considered counter-culture, something rebellious youth gravitated towards, often viewed with skepticism by those outside the community. Parents typically dissuaded their children from pursuing it as the culture was seen as the antithesis of organized sports and mainstream norms <a class="yt-timestamp" data-t="01:10:16">[01:10:16]</a>.
## Influence of Iconic Skaters
The Bones Brigade, a skateboarding team formed by Stacy Peralta, became crucial in catapulting skateboarding into the public eye. Skaters like Tony Hawk, Steve Caballero, and Rodney Mullen embraced innovation, each bringing unique styles and tricks that inspired new generations of skateboarders. Despite being initially labeled as a "circus act" for his trick innovations, Tony Hawk contributed to the sport's legitimacy and popularity through his unique style and relentless progression [[tony_hawks_passion_and_persistence]] <a class="yt-timestamp" data-t="00:28:01">[00:28:01]</a>.
## Mainstream Recognition and Professionalization
The late 1990s and early 2000s marked a turning point as skateboarding started gaining mainstream recognition, spurred partially by events like the X Games and the release of Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game series, which popularized skateboarding on a global scale [[impact_of_tony_hawks_video_game]] <a class="yt-timestamp" data-t="01:19:03">[01:19:03]</a>. These platforms illustrated skateboarding's creativity and athleticism, expanding its reach beyond those who physically engaged in the sport.
## Skateboarding in the Olympics
The inclusion of skateboarding in the Olympics represents a milestone for the sport, symbolizing its acceptance as a legitimate and serious athletic endeavor. This has shifted the perception of skateboarding, recognizing it as both a sport and an art form <a class="yt-timestamp" data-t="01:14:00">[01:14:00]</a>.
## Diversification and Inclusivity
A significant development in recent years has been the increased participation and recognition of female skateboarders. Skateboarding has become more inclusive, with platforms like social media showcasing talents such as Sky Brown and Lizzie Armanto. Competitions now feature gender-equal representation and prize money, contributing to a more diverse skateboarding scene <a class="yt-timestamp" data-t="01:50:00">[01:50:00]</a>.
## Philanthropy and Community Development
Tony Hawk's philanthropic efforts, through organizations like the Skatepark Project, have also been pivotal in driving the culture forward [[philanthropy_and_the_skateboard_project]]. By supporting the development of public skateparks, these efforts have provided safe spaces for skateboarders to hone their skills and form supportive communities <a class="yt-timestamp" data-t="02:06:02">[02:06:02]</a>.
## Conclusion
From its roots as a counter-cultural activity to its current status as an Olympic sport, skateboarding continues to evolve while retaining its core values of creativity and individuality [[creative_process_and_artistic_inspiration]]. The cultural shift within skateboarding over the years reflects broader social changes towards diversity, acceptance, and community support.