Jumping down a flight of stairs or gliding down a ramp can be fun on a skateboard. But for many people, it’s also a mode of transportation.

 For a commute of a few miles around Center City , a skateboard can be a worthwhile investment. The initial deck, or board, costs $30 to $50, while the full package ranges between $70 and $140, said Schane Vonhartleben, owner of the Subzero skateboarding shop at 520 S. 5th St., between Lombard and South streets.

 Getting around on a skateboard can be a workout, but most riders don’t skate for speed, so the board will normally carry a rider 5 to 10 miles per hour. And unlike tricksters noodling on public property, commuters wheeling around the city don’t have much trouble with the law.

 “As far as getting around town, we sort of fall into the path of a bicycler, so they don’t give us a hard time on the transportation to and from,” said Vonhartleben, 30, of South Philly.

 The cost and style of the board depends on whether the rider wants to use it for recreation or transportation.

 “College students will get a wheel that’s smooth and forgiving of bumps, where [those with only recreational] interest will have a board that’s very light and very able to be maneuvered,” said Vonhartleben.

 “[For transportation purposes], we recommend a larger wheel, a faster bearing, and a faster wheel to accommodate the smoother roll,” Vonhartleben said.

 — Joshua Mellman

SKATEBOARDING

Skateboarding has some fitness benefits, but it’s not for everyone. You need a good sense of balance and agility, and a strong core for long-term skateboarding. To strengthen your core, try:

“The Plank” — similar to the starting position of a push-up, but on your elbows, face down on the floor with legs straight out, knees in line with hips. Contract your abs and hold that position as long as you can, up to 90 seconds.

— Kimberly Garrison