Skateboarding Lessons: How to Nollie Flip

Head skateboard coach Coyote Rob lays it down in today's skate trick tip video!

Skateboarding is all about style, creativity, and pushing your limits. One trick that perfectly embodies these qualities is the nollie flip. A nollie flip combines a nollie (nose ollie) with a kickflip, resulting in a smooth and impressive maneuver that showcases your skills on a skateboard. Whether you're a seasoned skater looking to expand your repertoire or a beginner eager to learn something new, this guide will walk you through the steps to master the nollie flip. We'll also highlight how Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles can help you learn this trick through expert skateboard lessons.

Understanding the Nollie Flip

What is a Nollie Flip?

The nollie flip is a combination of two tricks: the nollie and the kickflip. Let's break them down:

• Nollie: A nollie is a trick where you pop the nose of the skateboard off the ground using your front foot, allowing the board to rise into the air.

• Kickflip: A kickflip involves flicking the board with your front foot to make it spin horizontally in the air.

Key Components of the Nollie Flip

1. Nollie: Popping the board with the front foot.

2. Kickflip: Flicking the board with the front foot for a horizontal spin.

3. Timing and Coordination: Synchronizing the nollie and flick for a smooth execution.

Prerequisites: Building Your Foundation

Before attempting a nollie flip, it's important to be comfortable with the following tricks:

1. Nollie: Essential for understanding how to pop the nose of the board.

2. Kickflip: Familiarizes you with the flicking motion required for the trick.

3. Ollie: Helps with balance and timing on the board.

These foundational tricks will give you the skills and confidence needed to tackle the nollie flip.

Preparing Your Skateboard Setup

Having the right skateboard setup can significantly impact your ability to perform a nollie flip. Here are some considerations for your gear:

1. Deck Size: A medium-sized deck (around 7.75" to 8.25") provides a good balance of control and stability.

2. Grip Tape: Ensure your grip tape is fresh and grippy to help with popping the board.

3. Trucks: Adjust your trucks to a comfortable tightness that allows for smooth spins and solid landings.

4. Wheels: Medium-sized wheels (50mm to 54mm) are ideal for street skating and learning flip tricks.

Foot Placement and Body Position

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

Foot Placement

1. Front Foot: Position your front foot on the nose of the board, with your toes hanging off slightly. This position will help you pop the board effectively.

2. Back Foot: Place your back foot slightly behind the back bolts, angled slightly forward to assist with the spin.

Body Position

1. Shoulders: Keep your shoulders aligned with the board and prepare to rotate in the backside direction.

2. Knees: Bend your knees to prepare for the pop and spin.

3. Head: Look straight ahead and stay focused on the nose of the board.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Nollie Flip

Step 1: Setup and Approach

Begin by riding at a comfortable speed with your feet in the correct positions. Find a flat, smooth surface to practice on.

Step 2: Pop the Nollie

1. Pop the Nose: Use your front foot to pop the nose of the board down firmly. This action will initiate the board’s upward motion.

Step 3: Execute the Kickflip

1. Flick with the Front Foot: As the board begins to rise, flick your front foot off the side of the board to initiate the kickflip rotation. Aim to flick with the toe of your front foot.

Step 4: Watch the Board Spin

1. Spot the Board: Keep your eyes on the board as it spins beneath you. This will help you anticipate the landing.

Step 5: Catch the Board

1. Catch with Both Feet: As the board completes its flip, aim to catch it with both feet for a stable landing.

Step 6: Land and Roll Away

1. Land with Both Feet: Bend your knees to absorb the impact and ensure both feet are over the bolts for stability.

2. Roll Away Smoothly: Maintain your balance and continue riding forward smoothly, celebrating your successful nollie flip!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Learning the nollie flip can be challenging, and skaters often encounter similar issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Problem 1: Incomplete Flip

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

Problem 2: Losing Control of the Board

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 3: Not Completing the Body Rotation

Solution: Practice the kickflip separately to build confidence in the rotational aspect. Use your shoulders to initiate and complete the rotation.

Problem 4: Landing Off-Balance

Solution: Focus on maintaining your balance throughout the trick. Keep your weight centered over the board and bend your knees to absorb the landing impact.

How Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles Can Help

Mastering a trick like the nollie flip requires guidance, practice, and dedication. Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles offers expert lessons and personalized coaching to help skaters of all levels learn this and other tricks.

Why Choose Coyote Skate School?

1. Experienced Instructors: Our team of experienced instructors are passionate about skateboarding and dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.

2. Tailored Lessons: We offer personalized lessons tailored to your skill level and learning style, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater.

3. Supportive Environment: At Coyote Skate School, we foster a supportive and encouraging environment where skaters can learn, progress, and have fun.

4. 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.

5. Convenient Locations: Located in the heart of Los Angeles, our skate school is easily accessible and offers diverse locations for skateboarding experiences, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica.

Benefits of Professional Skateboarding Lessons

1. Accelerated Learning: With professional guidance, you’ll learn tricks more quickly and efficiently. Our instructors provide valuable insights and techniques to accelerate your learning process.

2. Improved Technique: We focus on refining your technique and helping you overcome common mistakes. Our instructors provide personalized feedback to improve your skills and develop your unique style.

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

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

Practice Drills and Exercises

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

Nollie Practice

Work on your nollie technique by practicing nollies on flat ground. Focus on popping the board with your front foot and leveling it out with your back foot.

Kickflip Drills

Perform kickflips to build confidence in the rotational aspect of the trick. Pay attention to your shoulder and hip alignment during the spin.

Pop and Balance Exercises

Work on your pop and balance by performing ollies and nollies on flat ground. Focus on maintaining a consistent pop and landing smoothly with both feet over the bolts.

Embrace the Journey

Learning the nollie flip is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires patience, persistence, and passion. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and remember that every attempt brings you closer to mastering the trick. Whether you're skating in Los Angeles, Venice Beach, or 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 School, you'll be well on your way to mastering the nollie flip and expanding your skateboarding repertoire. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, there's always something new to learn and discover in the world of skateboarding. Keep pushing your limits, exploring new tricks, and enjoying the incredible journey that skateboarding offers.