Advanced Skateboarding Trick Tutorials: From Kickflip to Hardflip Variations

Skateboarding is an exhilarating sport that encompasses various techniques, including some challenging tricks. Among these, the kickflip is foundational, allowing skaters to master the art of flipping the board. To perform a kickflip, begin with your back foot on the tail while your front foot is positioned across the middle of the board. You must use a pop motion with the tail to lift the board and simultaneously slide your front foot upward. Ensure you apply pressure on the edge to flick. The success of a kickflip largely hinges on the timing and coordination of your foot movements. Additionally, practicing this trick over a flat surface will help build your confidence before attempting higher obstacles. As skaters grow comfortable with kickflips, they can progress to more advanced variations. These variations include the frontside and backside kickflips, which add a new layer of complexity and style to your skateboarding repertoire. Always remember to wear protective gear while practicing these tricks and check your skateboard for any issues that may affect your ride. Consistency and determination are crucial as you strive to improve your skills.

Understanding the Varied Techniques

Once you have the kickflip down, it’s time to explore the world of hardflips. The hardflip is a combination of a frontside shove-it and a kickflip, creating a visually stunning effect. To correctly execute a hardflip, start by positioning your feet similar to a kickflip yet slightly more toward the tail. Remember, committing fully to the trick is essential, as hesitation could lead to falls. Begin by popping the tail down while simultaneously pushing your front foot forward. The crucial step is the flicking motion with your toes that creates the flip. Make sure to jump sufficiently high to allow the board to rotate underneath you. Just as with the kickflip, practice over flat ground to cultivate muscle memory. Mastering hardflips will not only elevate your skill set but also make your routine appear more dynamic and engaging. Search for tutorials online that can provide visual guidance on how to approach these tricks effectively. Consistent practice and proper body positioning will help refine your technique, leading to successful executions.

Another interesting trick to master is the varial flip, which combines a shove-it with a kickflip. The varial flip takes time to perfect but is absolutely worth the effort. To begin, ensure that your board is positioned well beneath you. Start similarly to a kickflip, but when you pop the tail, slide your foot in a very distinct manner to execute the flick. The difference here is that as your foot is moving up, your back foot should also push laterally to perform the shove-it. Therefore, coordination between both feet is critical for this trick. Tips for perfecting the varial flip include practicing the shove-it motion and kickflips separately before combining them. Additionally, maintaining eye contact with the board during the trick can significantly improve your control over its trajectory. Filming yourself can provide insights into your form and help identify areas requiring improvement. In skateboarding, perseverance pays off, so dedicate time each week to practice beneficial variations of flips like the varial. Create a routine that balances your time across various tricks.

Progressing to the Next Level

For those ready to push their limits, the heelflip offers another layer of flair to your skateboarding library. While it shares similarities with the kickflip, the main difference is the flicking motion executed with the heel rather than the toes. To perform a heelflip, start with your feet in a similar placement as the kickflip, ensuring they are balanced and stable. With your back foot, you will perform the pop, and as the board rises, thrust your front foot forward and then flick backward with your heel. Be sure to jump high, allowing the deck to flip underneath you. It’s essential to keep your body straight and centered over the board, as this balance is crucial for landing successfully. Practicing heelflips frequently, beginning from flat ground, will develop your confidence before attempting anywhere else. Given the unique motion involved, it’s vital to focus on the control during the flip, making adjustments as necessary. Plan your heelflip practices strategically throughout your skate sessions to maximize your results.

Skaters who master these foundational tricks will find opportunities to incorporate more intricate moves, such as the impossible. This tricks involves the rider flipping the board beneath them while performing a body rotation. It’s a complex maneuver that requires significant practice to perfect. Begin by focusing on the pop and your foot placement. As you commit to the trick, your back foot should raise the board while your front foot should guide the rotation. Ensure your knees are bent and jump high enough to gain the necessary clearance. The goal is to encourage the board to wrap around your back foot in a straight flip motion as you rotate. Video aids showcasing this trick can be immensely helpful in understanding the timing and coordination required. Keep your weight centered as you land to maintain balance and control. Many skaters benefit from breaking this trick down into simpler segments before piecing it back together seamlessly. While it’s challenging, the satisfaction of nailing an impossible is unbeatable. Always practice in a safe area and wear protective gear for enhanced safety.

Staying Safe While Learning

While practicing these advanced tricks, safety should always come first. Your skateboard gear should include a helmet, knee and elbow pads to protect against falls. Accidents can happen even to the most experienced skaters, so protective gear is crucial. The choice of terrain also impacts your comfort and safety during practice sessions. Find smooth, flat surfaces free from obstacles initially, which will allow you to master each trick without the added distraction of potential hazards. Gradually, as your confidence and skills grow, you can begin to explore more complicated terrains and ramps. Also, warming up before each session will enhance your performance while reducing the risk of injury. Skateboarding is not just about performing tricks; it’s about pursuing personal enjoyment and growth. Alongside physical readiness, mental preparation is equally essential; practice visualizing each trick before attempting. Set realistic goals for your skate sessions, and don’t be afraid to ask experienced skaters for tips or advice while practicing. Embracing the challenging aspects of skateboarding is rewarding when approached with both caution and enthusiasm.

To sum up, mastering advanced skateboarding tricks such as kickflips, hardflips, varial flips, and heelflips significantly enhances both the aesthetics and performance of your riding. Emphasizing the correct technique and proper implementation of each trick is crucial to your progression. Each trick builds upon your foundation, allowing for a more comprehensive grasp of skateboarding. Consistent practice and the willingness to learn will eventually lead to success, whether in a casual session with friends or while impressing at competitions. Remember, every seasoned skater started from the basics and advanced their skills through dedication. Utilize resources such as skateboarding tutorials, video demonstrations, and the guidance of fellow skaters. Stay committed to your training and always set aside time to practice the fundamental movements that contribute to advanced tricks. Surrounding yourself with positive influences can significantly bolster your development and motivation. The skateboarding community is vast and welcoming, so engage with other skaters for support during your journey. Eventually, the reward of executing an advanced trick will outweigh the trials faced along the way. Keep pushing boundaries and enjoy every ride!