Have you ever watched skaters executing those dazzling tricks and wondered how they make it look so effortless? One of those intriguing tricks is the varial flip, a combination of a kickflip and a pop shove-it. It’s a stunning trick that looks great when performed smoothly. If you’re curious about how to pull off a varial flip on your skateboard, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down step by step, so by the end of this guide, you’ll have the knowledge you need to attempt it!
Understanding the Varial Flip
Before diving into the actual execution of the varial flip, it’s crucial to understand what this trick involves. Essentially, a varial flip combines two movements: the classic kickflip and the pop shove-it. This means your board needs to both rotate and flip in the air. The varial flip can be challenging because you’re manipulating the board in two different ways simultaneously.
The Basics: Kickflip and Pop Shove-It
To execute a varial flip, you should first be comfortable with the kickflip and the pop shove-it individually. Each trick forms the building blocks of the varial flip, so if you’re struggling with either, it’ll be tough to manage them together.
Kickflip: This involves using your front foot to flick the board’s edge, causing it to flip underneath you.
Pop Shove-It: This motion involves using the back foot to scoop the board, causing it to rotate 180 degrees.
Preparing for Your Varial Flip
Preparation is key to pulling off any trick on a skateboard. This involves both mental and physical readiness as well as ensuring your equipment is in top shape.
Physical and Mental Preparation
Before you hit the pavement, make sure you’re mentally prepared. Confidence is crucial, as hesitancy can disrupt your balance or lead to injury. Practically, make sure to stretch and warm up your muscles to prevent strains. Visualization can also help; imagine yourself nailing the trick before you actually attempt it.
Equipment Check
A common saying among skaters is “Know Your Board,” and there’s wisdom in that. Ensure your skateboard is well-maintained:
Ensure the Truck Tightness: You want your trucks tight enough to give you control but loose enough to allow maneuverability.
Inspect the Wheels: Make sure your wheels spin freely and are not worn out, as this can affect tricks.
Grip Tape: Ensure your grip tape is clean and capable of providing the necessary traction.
Foot Positioning for a Varial Flip
Foot placement is vital to performing a varial flip. Proper positioning allows you to exert the right amount of force needed for both the flip and the spin.
Back Foot Placement: Place your back foot so that it’s centered on the tail. It’s the key to scooping your board for the pop shove-it part of the trick.
Front Foot Placement: Angle your front foot slightly with your toes close to the edge. This positioning will allow you to flick the board effectively for the kickflip.
Here’s a simple table to summarize this:
| Foot | Placement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Back | Centered on the tail | Scoop for pop shove-it |
| Front | Toes near edge, angled | Flick for kickflip |
Executing the Varial Flip Step by Step
With your foot positioning nailed, it’s time to put it all together into a series of fluid movements.
Step 1: Rolling Momentum
Start rolling at a comfortable speed. Too slow, and the board won’t spin well; too fast, and control becomes challenging.
Step 2: Initiating the Pop
Push down on the tail with your back foot to pop the board into the air. This is much like starting a pop shove-it and should be a simultaneous movement.
Step 3: Scooping Action
As the back foot pops, scoop the board behind you. This motion should naturally start the 180-degree spin of the board.
Step 4: Flicking the Board
Simultaneously, use your front foot to flick towards the heel side of the board. This action will flip the board while it spins.
Step 5: Watching the Spin
Keep your eyes on the board. Following its movement helps in timing your landing. This ensures you catch it at the right moment.
Step 6: Landing the Trick
Stay calm and composed as you bring your feet back towards the board to land. Aim to catch the board with your back foot first, gently bringing the front foot down to control the board as you land.
Step 7: Rolling Away
Once you land, bend your knees slightly to absorb the impact and roll away smoothly. It’s the finishing stroke of your trick!
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Don’t be discouraged by failures; they’re part of learning. Here are some common mistakes and how to address them:
Mistake 1: Incomplete Spin
The board can sometimes fall short of the 180-degree rotation. Try to focus on a more forceful scoop motion with your back foot.
Mistake 2: Over-flipping
If your board flips more than needed, you might be flicking too aggressively. Adjust the force in your front foot’s flick accordingly.
Mistake 3: Poor Landing
Landing hard or unevenly is common. Focus on keeping your weight balanced and your body over the board as it spins and flips.
Practice Tips and Progress Tracking
Mastering the varial flip won’t happen overnight. Here are some tips to track your progress and become proficient in no time.
Incremental Progress
Break down the trick and practice the individual components repeatedly. Start with pop shove-its and kickflips separately until they feel natural. Gradually incorporate parts of the varial flip.
Video Analysis
Recording yourself can provide insightful feedback. Watch the footage to spot errors and correct mistakes you might not have noticed otherwise.
Skating Buddies
Sometimes a second pair of eyes can spot what you might miss. If possible, practice with friends who skate, and don’t hesitate to ask for their input.
Safety Considerations
Skateboarding involves risks, and varial flips are no exception. Always prioritize safety.
Protective Gear
Don’t skip helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads. They can save you from serious injuries, especially while learning new tricks.
Safe Environment
Choose a safe location to practice, such as a skatepark or an area with no obstacles or traffic.
Listening to Your Body
If you feel tired or in pain, listen to what your body tells you. Taking breaks and resting are as important as practice.
The Path to Mastery
Learning to perfect the varial flip on a skateboard is a journey filled with practice, patience, and perseverance. As you navigate through the ups and downs, remember that every great skater started where you are today. Embrace the process, celebrate small victories, and grow with each attempt. One day, when you’re flipping effortlessly through the air, you’ll thank yourself for putting in the time and effort. Now, strap on your helmet, step on that board, and get ready to master the varial flip!
