top of page
  • Writer's pictureWill Ermish

Skateboard Lessons: How to Nollie Heelflip!

Head instructor Coyote Rob breaks it down in today's trick tip tutorial!

The nollie heelflip is a stylish and technical trick that adds flair to your skateboarding repertoire. Combining elements of the nollie and the heelflip, this trick requires precision, timing, and practice to execute smoothly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the steps to mastering the nollie heelflip, offer tips to troubleshoot common issues, and highlight how Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles can help you learn this trick through expert skateboard lessons. By targeting keywords like "skateboard lessons Los Angeles," "skateboard lessons for beginners," and "learn nollie heelflip," we aim to ensure this post ranks highly for those searching for top-notch skateboarding guidance in LA.

Understanding the Nollie Heelflip

What is a Nollie Heelflip?

A nollie heelflip is a combination of two skateboarding maneuvers: the nollie and the heelflip. Here's a breakdown of each component:

  • Nollie: A nollie, short for "nose ollie," is performed by popping the nose of the skateboard with your front foot while sliding your back foot forward to level the board in mid-air.

  • Heelflip: This trick involves using the heel of your front foot to flick the board, causing it to spin 360 degrees along the axis of the tail.

Key Components of the Nollie Heelflip

  1. Nollie Pop: Initiating the trick with a strong nollie pop.

  2. Heel Flick: Using the front foot to flick the board into a heelflip motion.

  3. Board Spin: Achieving a full 360-degree flip along the board’s horizontal axis.

  4. Timing and Precision: Synchronizing the pop, flick, and catch for a smooth execution.

Prerequisites: Building Your Foundation

Before attempting a nollie heelflip, it’s crucial to be comfortable with the following tricks:

  1. Nollie: Mastering the basic nollie will help you with the pop required for the nollie heelflip.

  2. Heelflip: Understanding the flick motion involved in a heelflip is essential.

  3. Ollie: Proficiency in ollies will provide a solid foundation for overall board control.

  4. Nollie Flip: This trick combines elements of both the nollie and the flip, so practicing nollie flips can be beneficial.

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

Preparing Your Skateboard Setup

Having the right skateboard setup can significantly impact your ability to perform a nollie heelflip. 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 heelflip. 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 flip.

Body Position

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

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

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

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Nollie Heelflip

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 Heelflip

  1. Flick with the Front Foot: As the board begins to rise, use the heel of your front foot to flick the board off the nose. This flick should initiate the board’s heelflip motion.

Step 4: Spot and Catch the Board

  1. Spot the Board: Keep your eyes on the board as it spins beneath you.

  2. Catch with Both Feet: As the board completes its flip, aim to catch it with both feet, ensuring your weight is centered over the bolts.

Step 5: 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 heelflip!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Learning the nollie heelflip 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 Catching the Board

Solution: Work on timing and coordination. Practice catching the board with your back foot first, then work on using both feet.

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 heelflip 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 is 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 heelflip 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.

Heelflip Drills

Perform heelflips to build confidence in the flick motion. Pay attention to your front foot’s flick technique.

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 heelflip 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 heelflip 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.

Comentarios


bottom of page