How to Nollie Big Flip | Online Skateboard Lessons

Welcome, thrill-seekers and aspiring skateboard legends! Today, we're diving into one of the most dazzling and mind-blowing tricks you can pull off on a skateboard: the nollie big flip. This trick is not just a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to show off your skating prowess. So buckle up, grab your board, and get ready for a wild ride through the steps, tips, and some comic relief on how to nail the nollie big flip. And don't forget, Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles is here to help you perfect this trick and many more with our top-notch skateboard and surf lessons.

What is a Nollie Big Flip?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of executing the nollie big flip, let’s break it down. The nollie big flip combines a nollie with a 360-degree flip of the board. Here's what you need to know:

• Nollie: It’s like a nose-blunt, but with more flair. You pop the nose of the board while your front foot scoops it up, giving it some serious airtime.

• Big Flip: This involves a 360-degree spin combined with a kickflip, making the board flip and spin simultaneously.

So, when you perform a nollie big flip, you’re essentially doing a nollie while making the board spin 360 degrees and flip, all while you look cooler than a penguin in a tuxedo.

Prerequisites: Get Your Basics Down First

Before you tackle this beast of a trick, make sure you have the following basics dialed in:

1. Nollie: Master this trick to get comfortable with popping the nose of your skateboard.

2. Kickflip: You’ll need to have your kickflips down to make the board spin properly.

3. 360 Shove-it: This trick will teach you how to make the board spin 360 degrees while you stay centered.

4. Ollie: The ollie is essential for understanding how to lift the board off the ground.

These tricks form the foundation of the nollie big flip, so make sure you're confident with them before moving on.

Setting Up Your Skateboard

A good setup is crucial for performing any trick, especially one as complex as the nollie big flip. Here’s what you need:

1. Deck Size: Opt for a deck that’s not too wide or too narrow. Around 7.75” to 8.25” should be just right. If your board is too wide, you might struggle with flips; too narrow, and you risk losing control.

2. Grip Tape: Fresh grip tape is essential. Think of it like having clean socks; you wouldn’t want to do a trick with slippery feet.

3. Trucks: Keep your trucks adjusted to your preference. Too loose and you’ll wobble; too tight and you’ll struggle with the flick.

4. Wheels: Medium-sized wheels (50mm to 54mm) are great for street tricks. They offer a good balance between speed and control.

Foot Placement and Body Position

Proper foot placement and body position are crucial for executing a nollie big flip successfully. Here’s how to set up:

Foot Placement

1. Front Foot: Place your front foot on the nose of the board at a slight angle. This position helps you pop the board effectively and get that flick just right.

2. Back Foot: Position your back foot near the tail, with your toes hanging off slightly to assist with the scoop and flip.

Body Position

1. Shoulders: Keep your shoulders aligned with the board. Think of them as the steering wheel to your body’s rotation.

2. Knees: Bend your knees to prepare for the pop and flick. This position helps you absorb the landing and maintain control.

3. Head: Keep your head up and eyes on the board. Imagine you’re giving your board the evil eye to ensure it does exactly what you want.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Nollie Big Flip

Step 1: Get Rolling

Start rolling at a comfortable speed. Too fast and you might end up doing an accidental kickflip into the next county; too slow and you won’t get enough pop.

Step 2: Pop the Nollie

1. Pop the Nose: Use your front foot to pop the nose of the board while simultaneously scooping the tail with your back foot. This is where you initiate the trick.

2. Get Airborne: As you pop the nose, the board will start to lift off the ground. Aim for a smooth, controlled lift-off.

Step 3: Initiate the 360 Flip

1. Flick the Board: As the board rises, use your front foot to flick the edge of the board. This will start the kickflip motion.

2. Scoop the Board: At the same time, use your back foot to scoop the board, making it spin 360 degrees. This dual action creates the big flip.

Step 4: Rotate Your Body

1. Body Rotation: As the board flips and spins, start rotating your body 180 degrees. Your shoulders and hips should follow the board’s rotation to keep everything aligned.

2. Spot the Landing: Keep your eyes on the board and prepare for the landing. This is where you need to be most focused to stick the trick.

Step 5: Catch and Land

1. Catch the Board: As the board completes its rotation and flip, aim to catch it with your back foot to stabilize it.

2. Land Smoothly: Bend your knees and land with both feet over the bolts. Absorb the impact and roll away cleanly.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Even the best skaters run into problems. Here’s how to troubleshoot some common issues with the nollie big flip:

Problem 1: Incomplete Spin or Flip

Solution: Focus on your flick and scoop technique. Ensure you’re using enough force with your front foot to complete the flip and with your back foot to complete the spin. Practice the scoop and flick separately if needed.

Problem 2: Board Flipping Away

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

Problem 3: Losing Balance During Rotation

Solution: Practice the body rotation separately to build confidence. Focus on your shoulders and hips to maintain balance during the trick.

Problem 4: Not Catching the Board

Solution: Practice spotting the board and catching it with your back foot. Work on your timing and aim to catch the board as it completes the flip.

How Coyote Skate & Surf School Can Help

Learning a trick as complex as the nollie big flip can be challenging, and having expert guidance can make all the difference. At Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles, we offer top-notch skateboard and surf lessons to help you master this and many other tricks.

Why Choose Coyote Skate & Surf School?

1. Expert Instructors: Our team of experienced instructors are passionate about skateboarding and dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. They have the skills and knowledge to guide you through the process of learning the nollie big flip.

2. Personalized Lessons: We offer tailored lessons based on your skill level and learning style. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, we provide personalized instruction to help you improve.

3. Supportive Environment: At Coyote Skate & Surf School, we create a fun and supportive environment where skaters can learn, progress, and have a great time. Our goal is to make learning enjoyable and rewarding.

4. Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum covers a wide range of tricks and skills, from basic maneuvers to advanced tricks like the nollie big flip. We provide structured lessons and practice sessions to ensure efficient progress.

5. Convenient Locations: Located in Los Angeles, our skate school offers convenient locations for lessons, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica. We provide access to diverse skate spots to enhance your learning experience.

Benefits of Professional Skateboarding Lessons

1. Accelerated Learning: With professional guidance, you’ll learn tricks more quickly and efficiently. Our instructors provide valuable tips and techniques to help you progress faster.

2. Improved Technique: We focus on refining your technique and helping you overcome common mistakes. Personalized feedback from our instructors will help you perfect your nollie big flip.

3. Increased Confidence: As you master new tricks and improve your skills, your confidence on the board will grow. We provide a safe and encouraging environment where you can push your limits.

4. Safety and Injury Prevention: Our instructors emphasize safety and teach proper techniques to minimize the risk of injury. We ensure you wear protective gear and practice smart skateboarding habits.

Practice Drills and Exercises

To improve your nollie big flip consistency and confidence, incorporate these drills into your practice routine:

Nollie Practice

Work on perfecting your nollies on flat ground. Focus on popping the nose and getting a clean lift-off.

Kickflip Variations

Practice different kickflip variations to improve your flick technique. Experiment with the intensity and angle of the flick to understand how it affects the board’s flip.

360 Shove-it Drills

Perform 360 shove-its separately to build confidence in the spinning aspect of the trick. Pay attention to your back foot’s scooping motion and the board’s rotation.

Pop and Balance Exercises

Work on your ollies and nollies to enhance your pop and balance. This will help you get comfortable with lifting the board and controlling its movement.

Embrace the Journey

Learning the nollie big flip is a thrilling journey that requires dedication, patience, and a bit of humor. Embrace the challenge, celebrate your progress, and enjoy the ride. Remember, every attempt brings you closer to nailing the trick.

Whether you’re cruising around Los Angeles, Venice Beach, or Santa Monica, skateboarding offers endless opportunities for fun and self-expression. With the guidance of Coyote Skate & Surf School, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the nollie big flip and expanding your skateboarding skills.

So grab your board, hit the pavement, and get ready to impress everyone with your new nollie big flip. And if you ever need a helping hand, remember that Coyote Skate & Surf School is here to support you every step of the way. Happy skating!

By incorporating these tips and leveraging the expertise of Coyote Skate & Surf School, you’ll be able to master the nollie big flip and other impressive tricks. Our skateboard lessons in Los Angeles are designed to help you succeed and have fun while doing it. Whether you're looking for skateboard lessons for beginners or advanced tricks, we have the resources and knowledge to guide you. So don't hesitate to reach out and start your journey to becoming a skateboarding superstar!