Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to master the manual! Whether you’re a seasoned skater looking to refine your skills or a newbie eager to impress your friends, this trick is a fantastic way to showcase your balance and control on a skateboard. At Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles, we’re here to help you learn and perfect this trick, along with a ton of other awesome skateboarding and surfing skills. So, grab your board, put on your best “I’ve-got-this” face, and let’s dive into the manual—no pun intended!
What is a Manual?
A manual on a skateboard is essentially a wheelie, but with a bit more flair and skill. Unlike the classic wheelie you might have done on your bike as a kid, the manual involves balancing on your back wheels while riding forward. It’s like walking a tightrope on wheels—if tightropes had four wheels and were a lot cooler.
Key Components of a Manual
Balance: The art of keeping your balance while riding on just the rear wheels.
Pop: The initial lift-off from the ground to get into the manual position.
Timing: Knowing when and how to shift your weight to stay balanced.
Prerequisites: Getting Your Basics Down
Before you embark on your manual journey, it’s important to have a few basic tricks and skills under your belt. These will give you the control and confidence you need to nail the manual.
Ollie: The foundation of many skateboard tricks, the ollie is crucial for popping the board off the ground and into the manual.
Good Skateboard Control: Being comfortable with your board is key. This means feeling confident in your ability to ride, stop, and steer smoothly.
Preparing Your Skateboard
Before you start practicing, make sure your skateboard is in tip-top shape. A well-maintained skateboard can make a huge difference in your ability to perform tricks.
Deck Size: A standard deck size (7.75" to 8.25") works well for most skaters. If you’re just starting out, you might want a slightly wider deck for better stability.
Grip Tape: Ensure your grip tape is fresh and grippy. A good grip will help you stay in control during the manual.
Trucks: Adjust your trucks to a comfortable tightness. Too loose and the board will wobble; too tight and you won’t get the pop you need.
Wheels: Medium-sized wheels (50mm to 54mm) are great for street skating and tricks.
Foot Placement and Body Position
Proper foot placement and body position are essential for executing a successful manual. Here’s how to set up:
Foot Placement
Front Foot: Place your front foot near the front bolts. This foot will help guide the board during the manual.
Back Foot: Position your back foot near the tail of the skateboard. You’ll use this foot to pop the board and get it into the manual position.
Body Position
Shoulders: Keep your shoulders aligned with the board. This helps with balance and control.
Knees: Bend your knees slightly to prepare for the pop and maintain balance.
Head: Look straight ahead and focus on where you want to go.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Manual
Step 1: Setup and Approach
Begin by riding at a comfortable speed. You don’t need to go fast—just enough to pop the board and balance on the back wheels.
Step 2: Pop the Board
Pop the Tail: Use your back foot to pop the tail of the skateboard. This will lift the board and help you get into the manual position.
Lift the Front Wheels: As you pop the board, shift your weight back and use your front foot to help lift the front wheels off the ground.
Step 3: Balance and Hold
Find Your Balance: Once the front wheels are in the air, focus on balancing on the back wheels. Use your body weight to keep the board level.
Adjust as Needed: If you start to lean too far forward or backward, make small adjustments with your feet and body to stay balanced.
Step 4: Land and Roll Away
Prepare to Land: As you approach the end of the manual, get ready to bring the front wheels back down.
Land Smoothly: Gently lower the front wheels back to the ground and roll away smoothly. Try to land with your knees bent to absorb the impact.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Learning the manual can be tricky, and skaters often face similar challenges. Here are some common issues and how to solve them:
Problem 1: Front Wheels Don’t Lift
Solution: Make sure you’re popping the tail of the skateboard hard enough. Practice your ollies and work on getting a good pop.
Problem 2: Losing Balance
Solution: Focus on finding your center of balance. Keep your shoulders aligned with the board and make small adjustments with your feet and body.
Problem 3: The Board Wobbles
Solution: Check your truck tightness. If your trucks are too loose, the board may wobble during the manual.
Problem 4: Landing Too Hard
Solution: Practice your timing and try to land with your knees bent. This will help absorb the impact and keep you rolling smoothly.
How Coyote Skate & Surf School Can Help
At Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles, we’re passionate about helping skaters of all levels improve their skills and achieve their goals. Whether you’re looking to master the manual or learn other tricks, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.
Why Choose Coyote Skate & Surf School?
Experienced Instructors: Our team of skilled instructors has years of experience in skateboarding and surfing. They’re dedicated to helping you learn and improve.
Personalized Lessons: We offer customized lessons tailored to your skill level and learning style. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skater, we’ve got you covered.
Supportive Environment: We create a positive and encouraging atmosphere where you can feel comfortable pushing your limits and trying new things.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum includes a wide range of tricks and skills, from basics to advanced maneuvers. We provide structured lessons and practice sessions for effective learning.
Convenient Locations: Located in the heart of Los Angeles, our skate school offers easy access to various skate parks and spots in Venice Beach and Santa Monica.
Benefits of Professional Skateboarding Lessons
Accelerated Learning: With expert guidance, you’ll learn tricks faster and more efficiently. Our instructors provide valuable insights and techniques to help you progress quickly.
Improved Technique: We focus on refining your technique and correcting mistakes. Personalized feedback helps you develop your skills and style.
Increased Confidence: Mastering new tricks will boost your confidence on the board. We provide a safe environment where you can take risks and grow as a skater.
Safety and Injury Prevention: We prioritize safety and teach proper techniques to minimize injury risks. Wearing protective gear and practicing smart skateboarding habits are key components of our lessons.
Practice Drills and Exercises
To improve your manual consistency and control, incorporate these practice drills into your routine:
Manual Practice
Find a flat, smooth surface and practice holding the manual for short distances. Focus on finding your balance and maintaining control.
Ollie Drills
Work on your ollies to improve your pop and board control. A strong ollie is crucial for getting into and maintaining a manual.
Balance Exercises
Practice balancing on one foot or standing on your board while stationary. These exercises will help improve your overall balance and stability.
Pop and Scoop Drills
Practice popping the tail of the board and scooping with your back foot. This will help with the initial lift and getting the board into the manual position.
Embrace the Journey
Mastering the manual is a rewarding journey that requires patience, practice, and a sense of humor. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and remember that every attempt brings you closer to perfection. Whether you’re cruising the streets of Los Angeles, hitting up Venice Beach, or catching waves in Santa Monica, enjoy the thrill of skateboarding and the endless possibilities it offers.
By following this comprehensive guide and seeking expert guidance from Coyote Skate & Surf School, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the manual and expanding your skateboarding skills. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, there’s always something new to learn and discover. Keep pushing your limits, exploring new tricks, and enjoying the incredible journey that skateboarding—and surfing—has to offer.
And if you’re looking to add a splash of surfing to your skateboard skills, don’t forget that Coyote Skate & Surf School also offers top-notch surf lessons in Los Angeles. From riding the waves to perfecting your skateboarding tricks, we’ve got everything you need to become a well-rounded skater and surfer. So, hit us up, and let’s get rolling—on the board or in the water!
Comments