Have you ever wondered how to master the fakie ollie on your skateboard? This trick might seem intimidating at first, but with the right guidance, you’ll soon be adding it to your skateboarding repertoire. A fakie ollie is an essential trick for any skateboarder who wants to enhance their skills and broaden their repertoire of moves. It’s not just about performing the trick but understanding the dynamics and movements that help you execute it smoothly. Let’s journey through the steps, techniques, and helpful tips to get you confidently performing a fakie ollie.
Understanding the Basics of a Fakie Ollie
Before you start, it’s crucial to understand what makes a fakie ollie different from a standard ollie. Riding fakie means you’re moving in the opposite direction – this is essential because it changes the dynamics compared to a regular stance. While in a fakie, your nose turns into the tail and the tail into the nose, but your feet remain in the regular stance position. While the movement of the feet is quite similar to a regular ollie, the approach is somewhat different due to the fakie position.
Importance of Learning the Fakie Ollie
Why should you learn the fakie ollie? Aside from adding flair to your skateboarding, mastering this trick can improve your balance and stance transitions, making it easier to learn more complex tricks down the road. It can boost your adaptability on the board, strengthen your control, and give you a solid foundation for learning additional tricks.
Prerequisites: Skills You Need
Before attempting a fakie ollie, you should already feel comfortable on your skateboard. An understanding of riding fakie, performing a standard ollie, and maintaining balance while moving backward are crucial. Work on these fundamental skills, as they will build your confidence:
- Riding Fakie: Practice maintaining balance while rolling in a fakie stance.
- Standard Ollie: Ensure you can perform a standard ollie comfortably.
- Balance and Foot Control: Develop a strong sense of balance and control over your board.
Gear You Need
Having the right skateboarding equipment can enhance your learning experience and provide safety. Here’s what you need:
- Skateboard: Make sure it’s in good shape, with sturdy trucks and wheels suited for your riding style.
- Safety Gear: Always use a helmet and pads for elbows, knees, and wrists to protect yourself from falls.
- Skate Shoes: Wear good-quality skate shoes with excellent grip to provide enough control over your skateboard.
Step-by-Step Guide to Executing a Fakie Ollie
Once you have your equipment ready and your skills prepped, it’s time to break down the fakie ollie into manageable steps.
Step 1: Setting Your Stance
Your stance is the foundation for a successful fakie ollie. As you ride fakie:
- Front Foot Placement: Place your front foot near the tail’s middle, with your toes slightly angled for better control.
- Back Foot Placement: Your back foot should be slightly behind the front bolts for balance.
Step 2: Building Momentum
Building the right momentum can make performing the trick smoother. Push off gently and roll backward in a fakie stance. Feel the board’s motion beneath you and prepare to perform the trick as you gather enough speed. Avoid going too fast initially until you’re comfortable with the movements.
Step 3: Popping the Tail
As you gain momentum, bend your knees slightly to pop the tail off the ground. Push down on the tail with your back foot while maintaining control over the board with your front foot. The board will begin lifting into the air.
Step 4: Timing Your Jump
Nailing the timing of your jump is crucial. As the tail hits the ground, simultaneously jump into the air. Your front foot should slide forward toward the nose, guiding the board to level out.
Step 5: Leveling the Board
When in mid-air, focus on leveling the skateboard. Your front foot’s sliding motion will help flatten the board while your weight balances it. Keep your body centered above the skateboard and prepare for landing.
Step 6: Landing Smoothly
Stay focused as you come back down. Bend your knees to absorb the impact and maintain your balance. Keep your body relaxed and aligned with the board’s direction to ensure a smooth landing.
Step 7: Riding Away
Congratulations! Once you’ve landed, continue rolling in the fakie stance, asserting composure in your ride away. Embrace the exhilaration of completing the fakie ollie.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like any skill in skateboarding, perfecting the fakie ollie takes time and practice. Consistent practice not only solidifies your confidence but also enhances your muscle memory. Set aside time daily to work on the trick until it becomes second nature.
Troubleshooting: Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
As you learn the fakie ollie, there are common mistakes beginners often encounter. Let’s explore these along with solutions to improve your execution:
Problem 1: Losing Balance
- Solution: Work on core strength exercises outside of skateboarding. Practice riding fakie on flat surfaces to build your balance gradually.
Problem 2: Incomplete Pops
- Solution: Ensure that your back foot is pushing down firmly on the tail. A robust push and coordinated jump are key components for a complete pop.
Problem 3: Sloppy Landings
- Solution: Pay attention to your knee and body positioning at landing. Practice bending your knees to absorb impact, and ensure your weight is centered over the board.
Tips for Improvement
Enhancing your fakie ollie requires attention to fine details and mindful practice. These tips can accelerate your progress:
- Visualization: Imagine each step of the fakie ollie in your mind. Visualizing success can bolster your confidence and clarity of execution.
- Video Analysis: Record yourself attempting the trick. Watch the footage to identify areas for improvement.
- Peer Advice: Join skateboarding communities or practice with friends. Their insights can provide useful feedback and encouragement.
- Patience: Remember that progress can be gradual. Be patient with yourself as you learn and celebrate each small victory.
Expanding Your Trick Arsenal
Mastering the fakie ollie opens the door to more complex tricks and combinations, enhancing your overall skateboarding repertoire. Once confident with the fakie ollie, consider learning variations and transitions:
- Fakie Flip: Adding a flip to your fakie ollie for a more advanced and stylized trick.
- Fakie 180 Ollie: Rotate while executing the fakie ollie to add a stylish twist.
Conclusion
While skatboarding offers thrilling opportunities for creativity and physical activity, mastering tricks like the fakie ollie adds a sense of accomplishment and finesse to your journey. By understanding the fundamentals, practicing regularly, and maintaining an unwavering determination, you can master the fakie ollie and lay the foundation for even more impressive tricks. So, keep pushing your limits, stay safe, and enjoy the exhilarating ride of skateboarding!