- Ollie: A fundamental skateboarding trick invented in 1976 by Alan “Ollie” Gelfand and adapted for street skating by Rodney Mullen.
- Ollie Technique: Combines a powerful snap of the tail with a precise dragging motion of the front foot along the strap to lift the board into the air.
- Ollie Technique: Combines a powerful snap of the tail with a precise dragging motion of the front foot along the strap to lift the board into the air.
- Important Aspects of the Ollie: Position and timing are crucial for successful jumps; the front foot must maintain constant contact with the griptape throughout the trick.
- Kickflip: Often the first flip trick learned by many skaters, the kickflip involves spinning the board around its longitudinal axis.
- Kickflip Technique: Requires a powerful, diagonal kick of the front foot that spins the board around its axis.
- Timing and Precision: Essential for the kickflip to spin the board correctly and land safely.
- Foundation for advanced riders: Both the ollie and the kickflip are basic skills that form the basis for more complex tricks and combinations in skateboarding.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Regular practice is essential to master these tricks and continually improve your skateboarding level.
Skateboarding is not just a sport, it is a culture that combines technique, style and personal expression. Two of the most basic and essential tricks every skater should master are the ollie and the kickflip. Not only are these tricks spectacular to watch, but they are the foundation for almost every other maneuver in skateboarding. In this article we will take a closer look at these two fundamental skateboard tricks.
Ollie: The Fundamental Skateboard Trick
The Ollie is often the first trick a skateboarder learns. It was invented by Alan “Ollie” Gelfand in 1976 and later adapted for street skating by Rodney Mullen. The ollie allows the skater to lift off the ground without using his hands through a special technique where the skateboard “sticks” to his feet.
- Positioning: Place your front foot between the center of the board and the front truck screws. The back foot should be in the center of the tail (back end of the board).
- The Jump: Crouch slightly and push down hard on the tail to lift yourself and the board into the air while taking the weight off your front foot.
- Air Maneuver: As the tail hits the ground, lift the board with your front foot by flexing it slightly and pulling the outside of your shoe forward along the strap. This will make the board follow you in the air.
- Maintain Contact: It’s important that your front foot maintains contact with the griptape throughout the entire process to maintain control.
- The Landing: Once you reach the top of the jump, prepare for a stable landing by placing your feet over the trucks and squatting slightly to cushion the impact.
Kickflip: The Beginning of Flip Tricks
The kickflip often follows the ollie and is considered the first “flip trick” a skateboarder learns. It not only spins the board around its longitudinal axis, but also requires precise footwork, similar to a karate kick.
- Foot placement: As with the ollie, the back foot is placed on the tail while the front foot is placed slightly diagonally behind the front truck screws.
- The Kick: After the typical ollie jump, the front foot kicks diagonally forward over the nose and over the grip tape with more force.
- The Spin: As soon as the toes leave the board, it begins to spin around its longitudinal axis. This requires precise timing and the right amount of force.
- The Landing: Make sure the board lands with the griptape side up under your feet and try to land directly over the screws to immediately continue riding safely.
More than just tricks, ollie and kickflip are fundamental skills that open the door to a world of creative and challenging maneuvers for any skateboarder. By practicing these basics regularly, you will not only improve your skills, but also deepen your understanding and love for skateboarding. So grab your board and go on an adventure on four wheels!
