I started street riding/racing with the rest of the intercity kids on our department store bikes in Philadelphia during the late 80's early 90's. I eventually started riding up to the 'burbs with the more 'priviledged' kids who were on Torkers,Dyno, DiamondBacks, etc. They were the ones who were organizing the local street races and freestyle sessions. I started buying upgrades for my crappy little bike at the local bike shop with what little money I had so I could be apart of it all. It all came to and end when we moved to Texas in 1990. Or so I thought...

fast-forward many years...

On Xmas 2006, my wife was sweet enough to surprise me with a brand new DK Step Up. I took it for a ride that night! It had been so long since I rode a 20"(or 24, or 29, or scooter), that I barely made it down the block before my legs(and lungs) were completely spent. I walked the bike home with my burning lungs and noodle legs and stayed slumped on the couch for the rest of the evening. But I was still pretty happy to have a 20" again. Eventually, I realized that the Step-up was not going to hold up to me(6ft, 200lbs) or my type of riding. I rode it gently for the next year or so, researched the popular parks and trails, then sold it in favor of a stronger, more upgradable 20". So, with my newly acquired '08 DK Cleveland and at 34, I am ready to fully rejoin the world of BMX and MTB(I also plan on getting a 24" or MTB for longer rides and technical trails.)

Dilema:
A few weeks ago, had the rare free time to hit one of the local skatepark pools by myself(no kids). I waited for the few skaters to finish their runs and decided to give it a try. I didn't have the nerve to attempt to drop-in on the bike, so I just grabbed it, slid down on my feet, hopped on and went for it. Getting vertical wasn't as difficult as I expected. I just couldn't seem to get up enough speed to keep the momentum going without pedaling. Even though I had the pool all to myself, I wore out quickly(about 3 min). I got out to rest for a few before trying again. Still, the pushing and unnecessary pedaling killed me after only a few minutes. It was exhausting but extremely fun!!

Question:
Does anyone have advice on how to effectively improve on my pool/bowl skills? I would like to be able to increase my momentum and speed going and get as high as the coping - or above.