Have you ever watched a skateboarder effortlessly execute a tre flip and wondered how on earth they make it look so easy? This seemingly magical maneuver combines elements of both a kickflip and a shove-it, flipping and spinning the board underneath you. If you’re eager to add this trick to your skateboarding repertoire, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down everything you need to know to master the tre flip on a skateboard.
Understanding the Basics of a Tre Flip
Before diving into the mechanics of the tre flip, it’s essential to understand what this trick entails. A tre flip, also known as a 360 flip, involves the skateboard doing a full 360-degree rotation combined with a kickflip. It’s a combination of a 360 shove-it and a kickflip, requiring both dexterity and precision.
What Makes a Tre Flip Different?
While you might be familiar with tricks like the ollie or the kickflip, the tre flip incorporates elements of both, with added complexity. The unique combination of flips and spins set it apart from other tricks, making it both challenging and rewarding. Developing the muscle memory for this maneuver involves patience and practice.
Prerequisites for Learning the Tre Flip
Before tackling a tre flip, ensure you are comfortable with the following:
- Ollie: The foundation for most skateboard tricks, the ollie is crucial for gaining the height needed for a tre flip.
- Kickflip: A key component of the tre flip, the kickflip is indispensable to executing the trick.
- Backside 180 Shove-It: Understanding this motion will help you manage the full 360-degree spin.
If you’re proficient in these tricks, you’re ready to take the next step and work on your tre flip.
Preparing Yourself and Your Skateboard
Preparation is key in achieving success with any skateboard trick. Ensuring both you and your skateboard are ready will set you up for a smoother learning process.
Gear and Equipment
- Skateboard: Ensure your skateboard is in good condition, with tight trucks for stability and well-maintained grip tape for control.
- Shoes: Proper skate shoes will provide necessary grip and support.
- Safety Gear: Protect yourself with a helmet and pads, especially if you’re new to skateboarding.
Mental Preparation
Equally important is the mental preparation involved in learning new tricks:
- Patience: Learning a tre flip can be frustrating. Be prepared for trial and error.
- Focus: Concentration is crucial. Minimize distractions so you can devote full attention to mastering this skill.
- Confidence: Believe in your ability to succeed. A positive mindset can greatly enhance your learning process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Executing a Tre Flip
With preparation out of the way, let’s get into the step-by-step process of learning a tre flip. Breaking down the motion into smaller parts can make it more manageable.
Step 1: Foot Placement
Proper foot placement is crucial for executing a successful tre flip.
- Back Foot: Place your back foot on the tail of the skateboard with your toes hanging slightly over the edge.
- Front Foot: Position your front foot around the middle of the board with toes pointed diagonally. This position helps in flicking the board properly.
Step 2: The Pop and Scoop
The tre flip starts with a strong pop and scoop from your back foot:
- Pop: Press down hard on the tail of the skateboard with your back foot.
- Scoop: As you pop, scoop the board around with the ball of your back foot. This helps initiate the 360-degree spin.
Step 3: The Kickflip Motion
While your back foot is busy scooping, your front foot performs the kickflip:
- Flick: Use the toes of your front foot to flick the board at a slight upwards angle.
- Timing: Timing the flick with the scoop is critical for a successful tre flip. The board should flip and spin simultaneously.
Step 4: Catching the Board
Now that the board is in motion, the next step is all about control and timing:
- Hover: Keep yourself over the board, maintaining balance.
- Catch: Aim to catch the board with your back foot first, stabilizing it before your front foot lands.
Step 5: Landing
Landing is perhaps the most rewarding part of the tre flip. Here’s how to do it with grace:
- Stabilize: Once your back foot catches the board, quickly bring down your front foot to stabilize it.
- Absorb Impact: Bend your knees as you land to absorb the impact and maintain your balance.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Mastering the tre flip comes with its set of challenges. You might encounter a few bumps along the road, but with persistence, these can be overcome.
Flicking Too Hard or Not Enough
Finding the right flick can be tricky. If you’re over-flicking or under-flicking, the board won’t complete the desired flip:
- Solution: Practice controlling the strength of your flicks. Experiment with different pressures to find what works best for you.
Losing Balance During the Trick
Balance issues can arise due to incorrect posture or timing issues:
- Solution: Keep your shoulders aligned with the board. Focus on keeping your body centered throughout the trick.
Landing Off the Board
If you’re landing beside your board, it could be due to uneven scooping or poorly timed flicks:
- Solution: Practice your footwork and pay attention to the timing of your movement. This will help in syncing the pop, scoop, and flick.
Tips for Successful Tre Flips
Even though practice makes perfect, some tips and tricks can fast-track your learning.
Recording Your Practice
Recording your sessions with a camera can give you valuable insights. You’ll be able to see what you’re doing right and where you need to improve.
Practicing With Patience
Learning the tre flip doesn’t come overnight. Make a practice schedule and stick to it, incorporating breaks to prevent burnout.
Incorporating Variation
Once you get the hang of the tre flip, try incorporating it into lines with other tricks. This not only makes practice more enjoyable but also builds your skill set.
Seeking Help From Experienced Skaters
Sometimes, an outside perspective is all you need. Don’t hesitate to ask more experienced skaters for advice.
Helpful Table: Foot Placement Tips
| Aspect | Back Foot | Front Foot |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Edge of the tail with toes over the edge | Middle of the board with diagonal toe placement |
| Purpose | Initiates pop and scoop for spin | Provides flick for kickflip |
Building Confidence and Skill Over Time
The tre flip is a complex trick that improves with sustained effort and time. Build your confidence by appreciating small successes along the way. Each attempt, whether successful or not, contributes to your overall growth as a skateboarder.
Embracing the Learning Curve
It’s important to remember that every skateboarder has been through the learning curve. Embrace your journey, celebrate progress, and view each practice session as a step towards mastering the tre flip.
Incorporating Creativity
Once you’re comfortable with the standard tre flip, sprinkle in your creativity. Try performing it with varied speeds, on different terrains, or even off ledges for a new challenge.
Participating in Skate Communities
Join skateboarding communities, either locally or online. Sharing your journey and hearing others’ experiences can provide motivation, advice, and most importantly, camaraderie.
Concluding Thoughts
Your path to conquering the tre flip will be filled with trial and triumph. Armed with patience, practice, and perseverance, you’re well on your way to mastering this skateboard trick. Remember, the key is to make each attempt better than the last. Don’t forget to celebrate every tiny victory and most importantly, enjoy the process!
Happy skateboarding!