How to 5 0 Grind Step-by-Step Guide

The 5-0 grind is a stylish, technical trick that builds off the basics of the 50-50. Instead of grinding with both trucks locked on the ledge or rail, you balance only on your back truck while your front truck hovers in the air. It’s like doing a manual — but on top of an obstacle while sliding forward. Mastering this trick takes balance, timing, and confidence, but once you get it, it feels smooth and looks clean.

Why Learn the 5-0 Grind?

• It’s the natural step after learning 50-50s.

• It teaches balance and board control on obstacles.

• It looks stylish and can be combined with flips and other variations.

• It sets you up for harder grinds like nose grinds.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roll up with speed and confidence

Approach the ledge or rail at a slight angle. You’ll need a little more speed than for a 50-50 since you’re balancing on one truck instead of two.

2. Set your stance

Place your back foot firmly on the tail for popping and control. Put your front foot just behind the bolts so you can guide the board and help keep balance once you’re locked in.

3. Pop your ollie

As you reach the obstacle, ollie up just like you would for a 50-50. The difference is you’re aiming to land only your back truck onto the edge or rail. Keep your front foot light so the nose hovers.

4. Lock in the back truck

Guide your back truck onto the ledge and make sure it’s centered. If you’re too far off to one side, you’ll slip. Once you’re locked in, the front truck should float above the obstacle.

5. Balance like a manual

This is the hardest part. Lean slightly back over your rear truck, but not so far that you slip out. Think of it like doing a manual — your shoulders and hips should stay squared with the obstacle. Look forward, not down.

6. Ride it out

Stay light on your feet and let the grind carry. Keep your knees bent and absorb the bumps as you slide along the ledge or rail.

7. Dismount smoothly

At the end of the ledge, give a small nudge forward to let the nose drop and roll off, or pop out clean with a little ollie. Bend your knees to land and ride away smooth.

Tips for Learning Faster

• Start on low, wide ledges before moving up to rails.

• Make sure the ledge is waxed so you don’t stick and slam.

• Keep your weight centered over the back truck — too much forward and you’ll clip the ledge.

• Imagine you’re doing a manual, but on top of an obstacle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Both trucks locking in → that’s just a 50-50, not a 5-0.

• Nose dipping down → means you’re leaning too far forward.

• Slipping out → leaning too far back or landing off-center.

• Not enough pop → board won’t clear the edge cleanly, causing hang-ups.

The 5-0 grind is a must-learn once you’re comfortable with 50-50s. It teaches you how to control your board on obstacles while balancing in motion, and it’s the stepping stone to a lot of advanced grind variations. Start small, focus on balance, and once you’ve got it, you’ll be able to take your grinds to bigger spots and add style to your lines.