Skateboarding Lessons: How to Bigflip

Coyote Rob gives you all the skate hacks in today's trick tip tutorial!

So, you want to learn the big flip? Buckle up, because this trick is like the rollercoaster of skateboarding—thrilling, challenging, and guaranteed to leave you grinning (or possibly bruised) at the end. The big flip combines the elegance of a kickflip with the audacity of a 360 shove-it. It’s not just a trick; it’s a statement, a declaration that you’re not afraid to push the boundaries of skateboarding. In this epic guide, we'll break down the steps to mastering the big flip, sprinkle in some laughs, and explain how Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles can be your skateboarding superhero.

What is a Big Flip?

The big flip is like the love child of a kickflip and a 360 shove-it. Imagine if your board decided to spin 360 degrees while also flipping like it's auditioning for Cirque du Soleil. Here's the breakdown:

• Kickflip: The board flips 360 degrees horizontally.

• 360 Shove-it: The board spins 360 degrees vertically.

Combining these two creates the big flip—a board that’s flipping and spinning at the same time, making your feet do a complicated tango while you try to land it with style.

Prerequisites: Get Your Skateboard Skills in Shape

Before attempting to conquer the big flip, you'll need to be comfortable with some basic tricks. Think of these as the warm-up exercises before the big game:

1. Ollie: The bread and butter of skateboarding. If you can't ollie, you might as well be trying to juggle flaming torches. Get this trick down before moving forward.

2. Kickflip: The big flip's flip component. Nail your kickflips to avoid your board looking like it's performing a weird dance move.

3. 360 Shove-it: You’ll need this for the spinning part. If you’ve mastered a 360 shove-it, you're halfway to your big flip dreams.

Get Your Skateboard Setup Ready

Your skateboard setup is like the secret sauce to a great burger—crucial but often overlooked. Here’s how to get your gear just right:

1. Deck Size: Choose a deck that’s about 7.75" to 8.25". It should be big enough to catch but not so big you need a GPS to find it.

2. Grip Tape: Fresh grip tape is your best friend. It keeps your feet from doing a dance-off with the board.

3. Trucks: Tighten them just right. Too loose, and your board will wobble like jelly; too tight, and it’ll feel like steering a tank.

4. Wheels: Medium-sized wheels (50mm to 54mm) are ideal. They’re like the Goldilocks of skateboard wheels—not too big, not too small, just right for street skating.

Foot Placement and Body Position

Getting your foot placement and body position spot-on is like setting up the perfect chess game—you need to be precise. Here’s how to do it:

Foot Placement

1. Front Foot: Place your front foot slightly below the front bolts, angled at about 45 degrees. This will help you flick the board properly.

2. Back Foot: Your back foot should be on the tail, ready to scoop. The toes should be slightly off the edge, prepared to initiate the 360 shove-it.

Body Position

1. Shoulders: Keep your shoulders aligned with the board. They’re like the co-pilots guiding the board’s flight path.

2. Knees: Bend those knees like you're trying to do the limbo. This will give you the spring needed to pop and flip.

3. Head: Look straight ahead. Your head is the leader here—if it turns, the rest of you might follow.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Big Flip

Step 1: Setup and Approach

Start rolling at a comfortable speed. If you’re moving too slowly, the trick will flop harder than a fish out of water. Find a flat, smooth surface to practice—preferably one that’s not directly over your neighbor’s freshly painted porch.

Step 2: Pop the Ollie

1. Pop the Tail: Use your back foot to pop the tail of the board down. This is like the initial thrust of a rocket—it gets everything started.

2. Slide Up: As the board begins to lift, slide your front foot up towards the nose to prepare for the kickflip.

Step 3: Execute the Kickflip

1. Flick with the Front Foot: As you reach the peak of the ollie, flick the edge of the board with your front foot. The kickflip will send the board flipping horizontally.

2. Scoop with the Back Foot: At the same time, use your back foot to initiate the 360-degree shove-it. Your back foot’s scoop is crucial for the board’s spin.

Step 4: Rotate Your Body

1. Begin the 360 Rotation: As the board flips and spins, start your own 360-degree rotation. Your body needs to match the board’s spin to land smoothly.

2. Stay Aligned: Keep your shoulders and hips aligned with the direction of the spin. A well-aligned body will help you stay on top of the board.

Step 5: Catch the Board

1. Spot the Board: Keep your eyes on the board as it completes its flip and spin. This will help you time your landing perfectly.

2. Catch with Your Feet: As the board finishes its rotation, aim to catch it with your feet. Your back foot will help stabilize the board as you prepare for landing.

Step 6: Land and Roll Away

1. Land with Both Feet: Bend your knees to absorb the impact and ensure both feet land over the bolts. This will help you stay balanced and avoid slamming onto the pavement.

2. Roll Away Smoothly: Maintain your balance and roll away smoothly. Congratulations, you’ve just pulled off a big flip!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Learning the big flip can be like trying to juggle flaming swords—challenging but incredibly rewarding. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

Problem 1: Incomplete Flip or Spin

Solution: Focus on your flick and scoop techniques. Make sure you’re giving enough force to both the flick and the scoop. Practice these motions separately if needed.

Problem 2: Board Flipping Away

Solution: Check your foot placement and body alignment. Ensure your flick is directed towards the nose and your scoop is consistent. If the board is flying off in unexpected directions, you might need to adjust your technique.

Problem 3: Not Completing the 360 Spin

Solution: Work on your 360 shove-it technique. Make sure you’re scooping hard enough with your back foot and using your shoulders to help with the rotation. Practice backside 360 shove-its to build confidence.

Problem 4: Landing Off-Balance

Solution: Practice your balance and landing techniques. Focus on keeping your weight centered over the board and bending your knees to absorb the impact.

How Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles Can Help

Mastering the big flip is no small feat. It requires skill, practice, and a bit of skateboarding magic. That’s where Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles comes in. We offer expert skateboard lessons designed to help you tackle challenging tricks like the big flip with confidence and style.

Why Choose Coyote Skate School?

1. Experienced Instructors: Our team of skateboarding pros is passionate about helping you achieve your goals. They’ve been through the grind and can offer valuable tips and tricks to accelerate your learning.

2. Tailored Lessons: We provide personalized lessons that cater to your skill level and learning style. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, we tailor our approach to meet your needs.

3. Supportive Environment: At Coyote Skate School, we create a fun and supportive environment where you can learn, progress, and enjoy skateboarding.

4. Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum covers a wide range of tricks and techniques, from basic ollies to advanced big flips. We offer structured lessons and practice sessions to help you improve efficiently.

5. Convenient Locations: Based in the heart of Los Angeles, we offer lessons at various locations, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica. No matter where you are, we’ve got you covered.

Benefits of Professional Skateboarding Lessons

1. Accelerated Learning: With professional guidance, you’ll learn tricks faster and more effectively. Our instructors provide valuable feedback to help you improve quickly.

2. Improved Technique: We focus on refining your technique and addressing common mistakes. Our personalized feedback helps you develop your unique skateboarding style.

3. Increased Confidence: As you master new tricks, your confidence on the board will soar. We provide a safe and encouraging environment to help you push your limits.

4. Safety and Injury Prevention: Our instructors emphasize safety and teach proper techniques to reduce the risk of injury. We prioritize wearing protective gear and practicing smart skateboarding habits.

Practice Drills and Exercises

To perfect your big flip, incorporate these drills into your practice routine:

Flick and Scoop Practice

Work on flicking and scooping the board while standing still. This will help you get a feel for the motions and how they affect the board’s flip and spin.

360 Shove-it Drills

Practice 360 shove-its separately to build confidence in the spinning aspect of the trick. Focus on your back foot’s scoop and how it affects the board’s rotation.

Kickflip Exercises

Work on your kickflip technique to ensure a clean and consistent flip. Practice kickflips on flat ground and over obstacles to build your skill and confidence.

Balance and Landing Exercises

Practice landing techniques by performing ollies and nollies on flat ground. Focus on maintaining balance and landing smoothly with both feet over the bolts.

Embrace the Big Flip Journey

Learning the big flip is like a rollercoaster ride—full of twists, turns, and exhilarating moments. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the ride, and remember that every attempt brings you closer to mastering the trick. Whether you’re skating in Los Angeles, Venice Beach, or Santa Monica, the journey is as rewarding as the destination.

By following this comprehensive guide and seeking expert guidance from Coyote Skate School, you’ll be well on your way to conquering the big flip and expanding your skateboarding repertoire. Remember to keep pushing your limits, practicing diligently, and having fun along the way. Skateboarding is an adventure, and with the right skills and support, you’ll be flipping and spinning your way to success in no time.