Skateboarding is more than just a sport; it’s an art form that combines balance, creativity, and a willingness to push boundaries. Whether you’re a novice stepping onto a board for the first time or an experienced skater looking to refine your skills, understanding the basic techniques is essential. In this article, we will demystify some of the most popular skateboarding tricks and offer tips for mastering them.
1. The Ollie
What It Is:
The Ollie is the foundation of many skateboard tricks. It involves leaping into the air with the board, making it rise off the ground without grabbing it.
How to Do It:
- Stance: Position your back foot over the tail and your front foot near the middle of the board.
- Pop and Slide: Push down hard with your back foot to "pop" the tail of the board while simultaneously dragging the side of your front foot up towards the nose.
- Jump: As the board rises, jump off the tail with your back foot, lifting your knees to level the board beneath you.
Tips:
- Practice on a flat surface, gradually elevating the height of your jumps.
- Keep your shoulders aligned with the board to maintain balance.
2. The Kickflip
What It Is:
The Kickflip is an evolution of the Ollie that flips the board mid-air. It adds style and flair to any routine.
How to Do It:
- Start with the Ollie: Master the Ollie first.
- Foot Placement: Place your front foot near the middle, angled to the side while keeping your back foot on the tail.
- Pop and Flick: Perform an Ollie, and as you slide your foot up, flick your toes outward to the side. This motion will cause the board to flip.
Tips:
- Commit to the flick — it’s what generates the flip.
- Practice catching the board with your feet once it’s flipped to land safely.
3. The Heelflip
What It Is:
Similar to the Kickflip, the Heelflip uses the heel for the flipping motion. It offers a unique twist to your trick repertoire.
How to Do It:
- Foot Position: Set your front foot similar to the Kickflip, but angle it slightly inward.
- Pop and Slide: Execute the Ollie, sliding up your foot.
- Flick with Heel: Instead of your toes, use your heel to flick outward.
Tips:
- Focus on the motion of your foot and how it interacts with the grip tape.
- Ensure your body is properly aligned to land cleanly.
4. The 180
What It Is:
The 180 involves rotating your body and board 180 degrees while in the air, creating a half-turn.
How to Do It:
- Ollie First: Again, the Ollie serves as your launching pad.
- Wind Up: Before jumping, twist your shoulders slightly in the direction you plan to rotate.
- Jump and Turn: As you pop the board, turn your head and shoulders in the intended direction. Guide the board with your feet as it follows your turn.
Tips:
- Look over your shoulder in the direction of your turn to help guide your rotation.
- Keep your knees bent to absorb the landing and ensure stability.
5. The Grind
What It Is:
Grinding is a trick that involves sliding along an edge or rail using the trucks of your skateboard.
How to Do It:
- Approach: As you near the edge, maintain speed and prepare to ollie onto it.
- Jump: Pop an Ollie just before reaching the edge and aim to land on the obstacle.
- Balance: Position your body to keep the balance while grinding, either on the front or back truck.
Tips:
- Start with lower ledges or rails until you get comfortable.
- Lean slightly forward for frontside grinds and back for backside grinds.
Final Thoughts
Skateboarding is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. Each trick unlocks new possibilities for creativity and expression. While mastering these techniques takes time and practice, every skater has their unique style, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find what works best for you. Remember, falling is part of the learning process – get back up, dust yourself off, and keep skating!
