LA skate coach Coyote Rob teaches us this trick in today's online skateboarding lesson!
Welcome to the world of frontside tailslides, where style and finesse meet sheer skateboard wizardry. As one of the coolest tricks you can pull off on a ledge or rail, the frontside tailslide is a staple for anyone looking to elevate their skate game. Whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the ins and outs of executing a flawless frontside tailslide, all while keeping things light, entertaining, and informative.
And hey, if you find yourself needing a little extra help, Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles has your back. We offer top-notch skateboard and surf lessons to get you riding waves or rails like a pro in no time. But first, let's dive into the world of frontside tailslides!
Understanding the Frontside Tailslide
What is a Frontside Tailslide?
The frontside tailslide is a skateboarding trick where you approach a ledge or rail frontside (with your front facing the obstacle), ollie up, and slide along the obstacle with the tail of your board. It’s a trick that showcases your control, balance, and style. When done correctly, it looks as smooth as a hot knife slicing through butter.
Key Components of the Frontside Tailslide
Ollie: Popping the board up onto the ledge or rail.
Tail Placement: Positioning the tail of the board on the obstacle.
Slide: Maintaining balance and control while sliding.
Exit: Coming off the obstacle smoothly and riding away clean.
Prerequisites: Building Your Foundation
Before attempting a frontside tailslide, it’s essential to be comfortable with the following tricks and skills:
Ollie: This is the foundation of almost every skate trick, and it’s crucial for getting onto the ledge or rail.
Frontside 180: Helps with the rotation and approach to the obstacle.
Balance and Control: General board control and balance are vital for maintaining the slide.
Setting Up Your Skateboard
Your skateboard setup plays a significant role in how well you can perform a frontside tailslide. Here are some tips for optimizing your gear:
Deck Size: A medium-sized deck (around 8.0" to 8.5") provides a good balance of control and stability.
Trucks: Medium-tight trucks are ideal for grinding and sliding without being too wobbly.
Wheels: Smaller wheels (50mm to 54mm) allow for better control and easier slides.
Foot Placement and Body Position
Proper foot placement and body position are crucial for a successful frontside tailslide. Here’s how to set up for the trick:
Foot Placement
Front Foot: Place your front foot near the middle of the board, angled slightly forward. This position helps with the ollie and keeps the board stable.
Back Foot: Position your back foot on the tail, ready to pop the board and control the slide.
Body Position
Shoulders: Keep your shoulders parallel to the board, facing the obstacle as you approach.
Knees: Stay low and keep your knees bent to maintain balance and control.
Head: Look at the obstacle and focus on where you want to slide.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Frontside Tailslide
Step 1: Approach the Obstacle
Start by rolling towards the ledge or rail at a comfortable speed. Make sure you have enough momentum to carry you through the slide, but not so much that you lose control.
Step 2: Pop the Ollie
Ollie Up: As you reach the obstacle, pop a clean ollie. Aim to land your back truck and tail onto the ledge or rail.
Step 3: Lock into the Slide
Position the Tail: As you land, make sure the tail of your board is on the ledge or rail, with your back foot firmly controlling it.
Balance: Use your front foot to balance and guide the board as you slide along the obstacle.
Step 4: Maintain the Slide
Stay Centered: Keep your weight centered over the board and use your shoulders to help guide the slide.
Control the Speed: Use subtle pressure from your back foot to control the speed and length of the slide.
Step 5: Exit the Slide
Lift the Front Truck: As you near the end of the obstacle, gently lift your front truck to prepare for the dismount.
Ride Away Smoothly: Land cleanly on all four wheels and ride away with style, celebrating your successful frontside tailslide!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Learning the frontside tailslide can be tricky, but with practice and perseverance, you’ll get it. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
Problem 1: Not Locking into the Slide
Solution: Focus on your ollie technique and aim to land your back truck and tail securely on the obstacle. Practice ollies and approach the ledge with confidence.
Problem 2: Losing Balance During the Slide
Solution: Keep your weight centered over the board and use your shoulders to help guide the slide. Practice balancing on the ledge or rail without sliding to get a feel for the position.
Problem 3: Falling Off the Board
Solution: Check your foot placement and make sure your knees are bent to absorb any bumps or wobbles. Practice sliding on smaller obstacles before attempting larger ones.
Practice Drills and Exercises
To improve your frontside tailslide consistency, incorporate these practice drills into your routine:
Ollie Drills
Work on your ollie technique by practicing on flat ground. Focus on popping the board evenly and landing with control.
Balance Exercises
Practice balancing on curbs or small ledges without sliding to get comfortable with the position and weight distribution.
Slide Practice
Find a waxed ledge or rail and practice sliding slowly to build confidence and control. Gradually increase your speed as you improve.
How Coyote Skate & Surf School Can Help
Mastering a trick like the frontside tailslide can be challenging, but with the right guidance and support, you’ll be sliding like a pro in no time. Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles offers expert skateboard and surf lessons to help you achieve your goals and take your skills to the next level.
Why Choose Coyote Skate & Surf School?
Experienced Instructors: Our team of experienced instructors are passionate about skateboarding and surfing and dedicated to helping you succeed.
Tailored Lessons: We offer personalized lessons tailored to your skill level and learning style, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater or surfer.
Supportive Environment: At Coyote Skate & Surf School, we foster a supportive and encouraging environment where students can learn, progress, and have fun.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum covers a wide range of tricks and skills, from basics to advanced maneuvers. We provide structured lessons and practice sessions for efficient progress.
Convenient Locations: Located in the heart of Los Angeles, our school is easily accessible and offers diverse locations for skateboarding and surfing experiences, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica.
Benefits of Professional Lessons
Accelerated Learning: With professional guidance, you’ll learn tricks and skills more quickly and efficiently.
Improved Technique: We focus on refining your technique and helping you overcome common mistakes.
Increased Confidence: As you progress and master new tricks, your confidence will grow.
Safety and Injury Prevention: Our instructors prioritize safety and teach proper techniques to minimize the risk of injury.
The Joy of Skateboarding and Surfing
Skateboarding and surfing are more than just sports—they’re a way of life. The freedom, creativity, and joy that come with riding a board are unmatched. Whether you’re hitting the pavement or catching a wave, the thrill of learning and progressing is what keeps us coming back for more.
At Coyote Skate & Surf School, we’re passionate about sharing that joy with others. Whether you’re looking to master the frontside tailslide or catch your first wave, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Embrace the Journey
Learning the frontside tailslide is a journey that requires patience, practice, and perseverance. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and remember that every attempt brings you closer to mastering the trick.
So, grab your board, head to the skatepark, and get ready to impress your friends with your newfound skills. And if you ever need a little extra help, remember that Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles is here to support you on your skateboarding and surfing journey.
Happy skating, and see you on the waves!
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