If you’ve ever been mesmerized by skateboarders effortlessly performing flip tricks and their mind-boggling variations, you may have wondered how on earth they do it. Well, wonder no more. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of skateboard flip tricks and unravel the secrets to mastering these gravity-defying maneuvers. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn your first flip trick or an experienced skater aiming to add some flair to your repertoire, we’ve got you covered. So grab your skateboard and get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey of flips, spins, and tricks that will leave you feeling like a true skateboarding pro.
Understanding the Basics
Skateboarding flip tricks are an exciting and impressive aspect of the sport that allow you to add your own personal style to your riding. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced rider looking to progress, mastering flip tricks can take your skateboarding skills to the next level. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of learning and improving your flip trick abilities. Let’s dive in!
Getting the Right Skateboard
Before you can start performing flip tricks, it’s crucial to have the right skateboard. Make sure you choose a skateboard that suits your style and skill level. For beginners, a skateboard with a wider deck and softer wheels can provide stability and make learning flip tricks easier. As you progress, you may opt for a narrower deck and harder wheels for better control and maneuverability. Additionally, pay attention to the quality of the components such as the trucks and bearings to ensure smooth and reliable performance.
Understanding Foot Placement
Proper foot placement is key to executing flip tricks effectively. Take the time to understand and experiment with different foot positions to find what feels most comfortable and gives you the most control. For most flip tricks, your front foot should be positioned diagonally across the skateboard’s deck, with the ball of your foot near the edge of the board. Your back foot should be placed near or slightly off the tail, ready to pop the board. Focus on finding the balance between stability and freedom of movement to achieve the best results.
Mastering the Ollie
The ollie is the foundation for many flip tricks, so it’s crucial to master this fundamental technique before moving on to more advanced tricks. Start by practicing your ollies, focusing on achieving height and leveling out the board in mid-air. The key is to pop the tail of the board by quickly sliding your back foot down while simultaneously jumping and sliding your front foot up. With practice, you’ll develop the muscle memory and timing needed to execute a clean ollie, setting the stage for mastering flip tricks.
Developing Board Control
Board control is crucial for executing flip tricks with precision and style. Spend time getting comfortable riding and maneuvering your skateboard before attempting flip tricks. Practice carving, riding fakie, and maintaining balance in various positions on the board. As you build confidence and improve your control, you’ll be better equipped to execute flip tricks smoothly and land them consistently.
Beginner Flip Tricks
Once you have a solid understanding of the basics, it’s time to move on to beginner flip tricks. These tricks are great for building your confidence and getting a feel for flipping the board. Let’s explore a few popular beginner flip tricks:
Kickflip
The kickflip is one of the most iconic flip tricks in skateboarding. It involves flipping the board by flicking your front foot off the edge and simultaneously dragging your back foot up to catch the board and bring it back under you. Start by practicing the motion without actually flipping the board to get a feel for the footwork and timing. Once you’re comfortable, start adding the flick to initiate the flip. Focus on popping the board evenly and landing with both feet over the bolts for a clean kickflip.
Heelflip
Similar to the kickflip, the heelflip involves flipping the board, but this time using the heel of your front foot instead of the toes. The motion is similar to a kickflip, but with a slight twist. Flick your front foot diagonally opposite to your toes and drag your back foot up, catching the board and bringing it back under you. Practice the footwork and timing, gradually adding more force to the flick, until you achieve a full rotation. As with the kickflip, aim to land with both feet over the bolts for a solid heelflip.
Varial Flip
The varial flip adds a 180-degree rotation to the kickflip. Start by mastering the kickflip technique, then as you flick your front foot, use your back foot to kick the board in a horizontal direction, initiating the rotation. The board should spin 180 degrees while flipping. Practice the motion slowly and focus on controlling the board’s rotation and flip. With practice, you’ll be able to land varial flips smoothly and add more style to your trick repertoire.
Backside Pop Shove-it
The backside pop shove-it is a fun and straightforward flip trick to learn. Start by positioning your feet with your back foot near the edge of the tail and your front foot angled towards the heel edge of the skateboard. Pop the tail of the board with a quick snap of your back foot while simultaneously shoving the board with your front foot. The board will spin 180 degrees horizontally while flipping. Land with both feet over the bolts, and with enough practice, you’ll be able to add style and finesse to your backside pop shove-its.
Progressing to Intermediate Tricks
As you become more comfortable with flip tricks, it’s time to progress to intermediate-level tricks that require more skill and coordination. These tricks will challenge you and push your abilities to new limits. Let’s explore a few intermediate flip tricks:
Hardflip
The hardflip is a combination of a frontside 180 pop shove-it and a kickflip. Start by positioning your feet similar to a kickflip, with your front foot angled diagonally across the board and your back foot near or slightly off the tail. Pop the tail of the board and drag your front foot to initiate the kickflip motion. At the same time, use your back foot to flick and spin the board in a frontside 180 pop shove-it motion. The board will flip and spin simultaneously. Focus on timing and coordination to land the hardflip cleanly.
Varial Heelflip
The varial heelflip combines the varial flip and the heelflip. Position your feet similar to a heelflip, with your front foot angled opposite to your toes and your back foot near or slightly off the tail. Pop the tail, flick your front foot for the heelflip, and kick the board with your back foot to initiate the varial flip. The board will flip and spin 180 degrees horizontally. Practice the footwork and timing, gradually adding more force to the flick and kick, until you can land the varial heelflip smoothly and with style.
360 Flip
The 360 flip, also known as a tre flip, is a more advanced flip trick that combines a kickflip with a 360-degree rotation. Position your feet similar to a kickflip, but with your front foot angled slightly more towards the edge of the board. Pop the tail, flick your front foot for the kickflip, and add a slight scoop motion with your back foot to initiate the 360 rotation. The board should flip and spin at the same time. Focus on timing, coordination, and maintaining control throughout the trick. With practice and perseverance, you’ll be able to land clean and stylish 360 flips.
Advanced Flip Trick Variations
Once you’ve mastered the intermediate tricks, it’s time to take your flip trick skills to the next level with advanced variations. These tricks require a high level of skill, coordination, and style. Let’s explore a few advanced flip trick variations:
Double Flip Tricks
Double flip tricks, also known as flip-in-flips, involve executing two flips in a single trick. Examples of double flip tricks include the double kickflip, double heelflip, and double varial flip. These tricks require exceptional board control, timing, and patience. Start by mastering the individual flip tricks and become comfortable landing them consistently. Then, gradually add more force and flick to execute the double flip motion. With practice and determination, you’ll be able to add these impressive variations to your trick repertoire.
Laser Flip
The laser flip is a visually captivating trick that combines a heelflip with a 360-degree inward kickflip. Position your feet similar to a heelflip, with your front foot angled opposite to your toes and your back foot near or slightly off the tail. Pop the tail, flick your front foot for the heelflip, and simultaneously scoop and kick the board in a 360 inward motion with your back foot. The board will flip and spin simultaneously. Focus on timing, coordination, and maintaining control throughout the trick. With practice, the laser flip will become a powerful and stylish addition to your trick repertoire.
Inward Heelflip
The inward heelflip is a trick that adds a unique twist to the traditional heelflip. Position your feet similarly to a heelflip, but with your front foot angled more towards the toe edge of the skateboard. Pop the tail, flick your front foot for the heelflip, and add a quick scoop motion with your back foot inwards, causing the board to flip in the opposite direction of a regular kickflip. Focus on timing and coordination to land the inward heelflip smoothly. This trick will challenge your muscle memory and board control, but with persistence, you’ll master it.
Pressure Flip
The pressure flip is an advanced flip trick that involves flipping the board with pressure from the back foot. Position your feet with your back foot angled slightly off the tail and your front foot angled similar to a kickflip. Apply firm pressure with your back foot to cause the board to flip underneath you. The motion requires precise timing and control to execute the flip and catch the board before it completes the rotation. This trick may take time and patience to master, but once you do, it becomes a versatile addition to your trick arsenal.
Improving Flip Trick Skills
To continually improve your flip trick skills, it’s essential to practice regularly and focus on specific aspects of your technique. Here are some tips to help you refine your flip trick abilities:
Practicing Regularly
Consistency is key when it comes to mastering flip tricks. Set aside regular practice sessions to work on your flip tricks, ideally several times a week. Continual repetition and refinement of your technique will help build muscle memory and improve your overall skill level. Even short practice sessions can be productive, so make it a habit to dedicate time to your skateboarding skills.
Analyzing Footwork
Pay close attention to your footwork during flip trick attempts. Record yourself or ask a friend to film you to review your technique. Look for any inconsistencies or areas of improvement in your foot placement, flick, and catch. By analyzing your footwork, you can identify patterns and make adjustments to achieve cleaner and smoother flip tricks.
Perfecting Timing
Timing is crucial for executing flip tricks correctly. Work on synchronizing your body movements with the motion of the trick. Focus on the timing of your pop, flick, and catch to ensure a smooth and controlled rotation. With practice, you’ll develop a sense of timing that will enhance the overall execution of your flip tricks.
Increasing Pop and Spin
To improve the height and spin of your flip tricks, focus on increasing your pop and spin motion. Pop the tail of the board with more force to achieve greater height, and experiment with the amount of flick and scoop to increase the board’s rotation. Gradually increase the intensity of your pop and spin while maintaining control and stability. By pushing yourself to achieve more height and rotation, you’ll continually push the boundaries of your flip trick abilities.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
As you work on your flip tricks, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes and troubleshoot them to ensure consistent progress. Here are a few common issues you may encounter and how to address them:
Landing with Too Much Weight Forward
Landing with too much weight forward can cause balance issues and make it difficult to maintain stability. To avoid this, focus on distributing your weight evenly over the board and keeping your body centered. Aim to land with both feet over the bolts, ensuring a solid and balanced stance.
Insufficient Pop
Sometimes flip tricks may lack height and rotation due to insufficient pop. To address this issue, focus on generating more power and force when popping the tail of the board. Engage your legs and use a quick and explosive motion to achieve a higher pop. Additionally, make sure to fully extend your legs during the pop to maximize upward force.
Inconsistent Foot Placement
Inconsistent foot placement can lead to unpredictable flip trick outcomes. It’s essential to practice consistency in your foot positioning to achieve more controlled and reliable results. Take the time to understand the correct foot placement for each trick and focus on replicating it consistently during your attempts.
Fear of Commitment
Fear of commitment is a common hurdle when learning and attempting flip tricks. Overcoming this fear is essential to progressing and achieving success with your tricks. Build confidence gradually by starting with smaller drops and progressing to more challenging obstacles. Visualize successful landings and focus on the joy of landing tricks rather than the fear of failure. Remember, with practice and determination, you can conquer your fear and achieve your skateboarding goals.
Building Confidence
Building confidence is a crucial aspect of skateboarding and can greatly enhance your flip trick abilities. Here are some strategies to help you develop confidence on and off the skateboard:
Starting with Low Drops
Beginner skateboarders can build confidence by starting with low drops. Find small curbs, ramps, or other low obstacles to practice dropping off and landing smoothly. Gradually progress to higher drops as you become more comfortable and confident in your abilities. By progressively challenging yourself, you’ll build confidence and overcome fear.
Using Supportive Gear
Using supportive gear such as helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads can provide an added layer of safety, boosting your confidence on the skateboard. Knowing that you’re protected can alleviate fear and allow you to focus on your flip tricks. Invest in high-quality protective gear and wear it consistently to maintain safety and build confidence.
Visualizing Successful Landings
Visualizing successful landings before attempting a flip trick can greatly enhance your confidence. Take a moment to vividly imagine yourself executing the trick smoothly and landing with grace. Visualizing success primes your mind and body for the actual execution and reinforces a positive mindset.
Learning from Failures
Mistakes and failures are part of the learning process, and embracing them is key to building confidence. Instead of dwelling on failed attempts, view them as valuable learning experiences. Analyze what went wrong, make adjustments, and approach the trick with renewed determination. By learning from your failures, you’ll develop resilience and confidence in your abilities.
Safety Considerations
Skateboarding, including flip tricks, comes with inherent risks. Prioritizing safety is crucial to prevent injuries and ensure a positive and enjoyable skateboarding experience. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind:
Wearing Protective Equipment
Always wear appropriate protective equipment when skateboarding. A helmet is essential to safeguard against head injuries, and knee and elbow pads provide additional protection to vulnerable joints. Invest in high-quality protective gear designed specifically for skateboarding and make it a non-negotiable part of your skateboarding routine.
Choosing Suitable Skateboarding Locations
Select skateboarding locations that are appropriate for your skill level and the specific tricks you want to practice. Skateboarding parks, dedicated skate spots, or smooth concrete surfaces are generally safer options. Avoid areas with heavy traffic, rough terrain, or dangerous obstacles that could increase the risk of accidents.
Avoiding Dangerous Obstacles
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid dangerous obstacles such as stairs, rails, or ledges that may pose a higher risk of injury. As you progress and gain more experience, you can gradually introduce these obstacles into your practice sessions, but always prioritize safety and take necessary precautions.
Skating with a Buddy
Skating with a buddy adds an extra layer of safety and support. Having someone to spot you during your attempts and offer feedback can help prevent accidents and provide encouragement. Additionally, in case of an emergency, a skateboarding buddy can provide immediate assistance or seek help if needed.
Gaining Inspiration from Professional Skateboarders
Observing and getting inspired by professional skateboarders can fuel your passion for skateboarding and motivate you to improve your flip trick skills. Here are some ways to gain inspiration from the pros:
Observing and Analyzing Pro Performances
Watch professional skateboarders in action by attending skate competitions, watching live events, or viewing recorded performances. Analyze their technique, style, and execution of flip tricks. Pay attention to their body movements, foot placement, and overall approach to tricks. Observing experts can provide valuable insights and inspiration for your own skating journey.
Studying Trick Breakdowns
Many professional skateboarders and skateboarding channels offer trick breakdown videos that explain the mechanics and nuances of specific flip tricks. Watching these breakdowns can deepen your understanding of the tricks and help you identify areas for improvement in your own technique. Take advantage of these educational resources to refine your flip trick skills.
Watching Skateboarding Videos
Skateboarding videos, whether they feature professional skateboarders or talented amateurs, can be a great source of motivation and inspiration. These videos showcase a wide range of flip tricks performed in various settings and with different styles. Immerse yourself in the skateboarding culture by watching videos from reputable skateboarding channels and filmmakers.
Attending Skate Competitions
Attending local skate competitions can be an exhilarating experience that allows you to witness flip tricks and other impressive skateboarding maneuvers up close. The energy and enthusiasm at these events can be infectious, sparking your own desire to push your limits and improve your skills. Seek out local skate competitions and make it a point to attend and support the skateboarding community.
Taking it to the Streets
Once you’ve built a solid foundation of flip trick skills, it’s time to take your skateboarding to the streets and explore the urban landscape. Here are some ways to make the most of street skateboarding:
Utilizing Urban Landscape
Cities and urban areas offer endless opportunities for creative skateboarding. Look for ledges, stairs, rails, gaps, and other features that can be incorporated into your flip trick sessions. Use your flip trick skills to navigate and conquer different obstacles, adding a sense of adventure and exploration to your skateboarding experience.
Exploring Skateparks
Skateparks are specifically designed to cater to skateboarders of all skill levels. Explore your local skatepark and take advantage of the various ramps, banks, boxes, and rails available. Skateparks provide a controlled environment where you can practice flip tricks in a safe and supportive atmosphere while connecting with other skateboarders.
Filming and Sharing Your Progress
Documenting your flip trick journey by filming yourself can be a valuable tool for improvement and a way to showcase your progress. Set up a camera or ask a friend to film your tricks, allowing you to review your technique, identify areas for improvement, and track your progress over time. Sharing your footage with friends and online communities can provide additional motivation and support.
Finding Local Skateboarding Community
Connecting with the local skateboarding community is a fantastic way to enhance your skateboarding experience. Seek out skateboarding groups or meetups in your area to meet fellow skateboarders, exchange tips and tricks, and share the excitement of skateboarding. The community can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and guidance as you continue to develop your flip trick skills.
In conclusion, learning and mastering skateboard flip tricks and their variations requires a combination of dedication, practice, and a willingness to push your limits. By understanding the basics, progressing from beginner to advanced tricks, improving your technique, building confidence, prioritizing safety, gaining inspiration from professionals, and taking your skills to the streets, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled and stylish flip trick skateboarder. Embrace the journey, have fun, and never stop pushing yourself to achieve new heights in your skateboarding endeavors.