Skateboarding Lessons: How to Kickflip!

The kickflip is one of the most iconic and fundamental tricks in skateboarding. It’s a trick that forms the backbone of many advanced maneuvers and variations. Mastering the kickflip opens up a world of possibilities for skateboarders, from performing combinations to exploring street and park skating with more confidence and style. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about learning and perfecting the kickflip, including the basics, foot placement, step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting common problems, and tips for refining your technique.

Understanding the Basics: What is a Kickflip?

The kickflip is a trick that involves the skateboard flipping 360 degrees along the board's long axis, known as the "kickflip axis," while the skater jumps into the air and lands back on the board. It’s a fundamental move that builds on the basic ollie by adding a flick with the front foot to initiate the spin.

Prerequisites: Building a Strong Foundation

Before attempting the kickflip, it's crucial to have a solid grasp of the following skills:

1. Riding and Balancing: Be comfortable riding your skateboard at different speeds, making turns, and stopping.

2. Ollie: Master the ollie, as it forms the basis for the kickflip. You should be able to ollie with control and confidence, both stationary and while moving.

3. Pop Shove-It (optional): While not required, knowing the pop shove-it can help you understand board control and the mechanics of flipping tricks.

Equipment Considerations

Having the right equipment can make learning the kickflip easier and more enjoyable. Here are a few tips for optimizing your skateboard setup:

1. Deck Size: Choose a deck size that feels comfortable under your feet. Most street skaters prefer a deck width between 7.75 and 8.25 inches.

2. Grip Tape: Ensure your grip tape is clean and provides sufficient traction for your shoes to grip the board during the flick.

3. Trucks and Wheels: Adjust your trucks to a tightness that suits your riding style, balancing stability with maneuverability. Opt for medium-sized wheels (50-54mm) for a good mix of speed and control.

4. Footwear: Wear skate shoes with a flat sole and good grip to enhance board control and flick precision.

Foot Placement and Body Position

Correct foot placement and body position are crucial for executing a successful kickflip. Here’s how to set up for the trick:

Foot Placement

1. Front Foot: Place your front foot slightly angled (about 45 degrees) across the board with your toes hanging off the edge slightly. Your heel should be positioned just behind the front bolts.

2. Back Foot: Place your back foot flat across the tail of the skateboard, similar to an ollie setup. Your toes should be centered on the tail to allow for a strong pop.

Body Position

1. Shoulders: Keep your shoulders parallel to the board to maintain balance and control.

2. Knees: Bend your knees to prepare for the jump and to help absorb the impact upon landing.

3. Head: Look forward, keeping your eyes on the nose of the board. This will help you stay centered and focused during the trick.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Kickflip

Step 1: Setup and Approach

Begin by riding at a comfortable speed. While you can learn kickflips stationary, performing them while rolling gives you better balance and helps simulate real skating conditions.

Step 2: Pop and Flick

1. Pop the Tail: Use your back foot to pop the tail of the skateboard down firmly, just like you would in an ollie. This action will lift the board off the ground.

2. Flick with the Front Foot: As the board begins to rise, use your front foot to flick the board. To do this, slide your foot up the board towards the nose, and as you reach the edge, flick your foot outwards and slightly upwards. Aim to make contact with the edge of the board using the side of your shoe to initiate the spin.

Step 3: Jump and Level

1. Jump: As you pop and flick, jump into the air, allowing the board to spin beneath you. Keep your body centered over the board.

2. Level Out: As the board completes its flip, use your knees to bring your feet back over the board. This requires timing and coordination, so practice staying centered and poised above the board.

Step 4: Catch and Land

1. Catch the Board: Use your back foot to catch the board first, then bring your front foot down to stabilize it.

2. Land: Bend your knees to absorb the impact of the landing, ensuring both feet are positioned over the bolts for maximum stability.

3. Roll Away: Maintain your balance and continue rolling forward smoothly, celebrating your success!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Learning the kickflip can be challenging, and many skaters encounter similar issues during the learning process. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Problem 1: Board Flipping Too Quickly or Slowly

Solution: Adjust the force and speed of your flick. Practice varying the flick's intensity to control the board's spin rate. Ensure you’re flicking with the side of your foot and not your toes.

Problem 2: Not Getting Enough Height

Solution: Focus on your pop. Make sure you’re popping the tail down firmly to generate enough lift. Bend your knees more before the jump to increase your vertical leap.

Problem 3: Board Flipping Away from You

Solution: Check your foot placement and body alignment. Keep your shoulders parallel to the board and ensure your flick is directed towards the nose, not off to the side.

Problem 4: Landing with One Foot

Solution: Practice the timing of your flick and jump. Visualize landing with both feet and focus on keeping your body centered over the board. Drill the motion by practicing the flick on its own without popping the board.

Problem 5: Board Not Flipping Fully

Solution: Concentrate on the flicking motion. Make sure your front foot is properly positioned, and the flick is sharp and outward. The flick should come from your ankle rather than your whole leg.

Practice Drills and Exercises

To improve your kickflip consistency and confidence, incorporate these practice drills into your routine:

Flick Practice

Without popping the board, practice the flicking motion while standing still. Focus on making a crisp flick and observing how the board spins under different angles and pressures.

Ollie Precision

Perform ollies with an emphasis on clean execution and balance. Being able to control your ollies will translate into better kickflips.

Half-Flip Drills

Practice flicking the board into a half-flip and landing back on it. This drill helps you get used to the timing and feel of the board under your feet as it flips.

Balance and Coordination Exercises

Strengthen your core and improve balance with exercises like planks, squats, and balance board training. A strong core aids in maintaining control during tricks.

Mental Preparation and Visualization

The mental aspect of learning a kickflip is as important as the physical. Here’s how to mentally prepare for success:

Visualize Success

Before attempting the trick, close your eyes and visualize yourself executing a perfect kickflip. Imagine each step, from the setup to the landing, and picture yourself landing it smoothly.

Set Realistic Goals

Break down the learning process into manageable goals. Celebrate small victories, like consistently landing the flick or improving your pop height.

Stay Positive

Approach the learning process with a positive attitude. Remember that progress takes time and that every failed attempt is an opportunity to learn and improve.

Practice Patience

Be patient with yourself. Learning a new trick requires dedication and persistence. Trust the process, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks.

Refining Your Technique

Once you’ve successfully landed a kickflip, the next step is to refine and perfect your technique. Here are some tips to take your kickflip to the next level:

Increase Consistency

Aim to land your kickflips consistently by practicing regularly. Focus on maintaining the same foot placement and flicking motion for each attempt.

Add Style

Add your unique flair to the kickflip by experimenting with your body posture, arm movements, and landing style. Developing your style makes the trick more personal and expressive.

Explore Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic kickflip, explore variations like the kickflip indy grab, double kickflip, or kickflip 180. These variations challenge your skills and open new possibilities for creativity.

Transition to Switch Stance

Challenge yourself by learning to perform kickflips in switch stance. This not only improves your overall board control but also adds versatility to your skating repertoire.

The Path to Mastery: Consistency and Dedication

Mastering the kickflip is a rewarding journey that requires dedication, patience, and a willingness to embrace challenges. Here are some final tips to guide you on your path to mastery:

Practice Regularly

Set aside time for regular practice sessions. Consistent practice is key to building muscle memory and improving your skills.

Seek Feedback

Don’t hesitate to seek advice and feedback from fellow skaters or instructors. They can provide valuable insights and help you refine your technique.

Embrace Challenges

View challenges as opportunities for growth. Each difficulty you overcome strengthens your skills and builds resilience.

Enjoy the Journey

Remember that skateboarding is about creativity, expression, and fun. Enjoy the process of learning and exploring new tricks, and don’t forget to have fun along the way.

The kickflip is an essential trick that serves as a gateway to a world of skateboarding possibilities. By mastering the fundamentals, practicing consistently, and maintaining a positive mindset, you can successfully land kickflips with confidence and style. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your progress, and continue to push the boundaries of your skills. With dedication and persistence, the kickflip will become an integral part of your skateboarding repertoire, unlocking new opportunities for creativity and self-expression on your board.