How to Pull Off Basic Skateboard Tricks

When you first learn how to skateboard it may be too soon for skateboard tricks. You get caught up in the excitement of learning a new sport.  Once you've mastered standing and cruising on your skateboard, it's natural to want to take your skill to the next level. Learning basic skateboarding tricks isn't terribly hard and can dramatically increase your passion for the sport.

The first step in doing an Ollie is to put your front foot about an inch behind the front bolts on your deck. (Your front foot will be your left foot if you're a regular rider and your right foot if you're goofy). Place your back foot on the tail, or rear, of your skateboard. Bend your knees, keeping in mind that the more you bend, the higher you will go. Slam your back foot down on the tail of your skateboard, using your front foot as momentum to help you get up. You may feel as though you're jumping, which means you're doing it right. Pull your knees to your chest and use your back foot to pull your board up as high as you want to jump. As you land, bend your knees to absorb the impact of the ground.

Another basic skateboard trick do is the kickturn. The stance for the kickturn is basically the same as the stance for an Ollie; place your front foot about an inch behind the front bolts and your back foot on the tail of the skateboard. As with the Ollie, you should be moving when you attempt this trick. Push your foot down on the tail of the board and use your body to turn the skateboard. You can turn your skateboard 90, 180 or 360 degrees, depending on your needs.

A manual involves skating on two wheels, rather than four. To begin, get into the Ollie stance. While moving, put most of your weight on your back foot. The front two wheels should come off the ground. Keeping yourself balanced is the most difficult part of performing manuals. Once you have mastered a basic manual, you can experiment with different types including one foot and nose manuals.

Practice and determination are the keys to successfully pulling off skateboard tricks. Make sure you're wearing a helmet and other safety gear, especially when you're learning. And don't give up, no matter how many spills you take!

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