Skateboard Lessons: How to Switch Varial Heelflip

The switch varial heelflip is an advanced skateboarding trick that combines the elements of a heelflip, pop shove-it, and switch stance. Mastering this trick requires a good understanding of each individual component and the ability to execute them seamlessly in one fluid motion. This comprehensive guide will take you through the necessary prerequisites, the mechanics of each component, a step-by-step process to learn the switch varial heelflip, and tips for troubleshooting common issues. Let’s dive in!

Prerequisites: Tricks to Master Before Attempting the Switch Varial Heelflip

Before you attempt a switch varial heelflip, it is crucial to have a strong foundation in the following tricks:

1. Switch Riding: Being comfortable riding in a switch stance is essential. Practice pushing, turning, and doing basic tricks like switch ollies to build confidence.

2. Heelflip: The heelflip is a fundamental trick that involves flipping the board with your heel. You should be able to perform heelflips consistently and with control.

3. Pop Shove-It: This trick involves popping the tail of the board and using your back foot to scoop the board around 180 degrees. You should be able to do pop shove-its regularly, especially while riding switch.

4. Switch Heelflip: Once you’re comfortable with regular heelflips, practice switch heelflips to get accustomed to flipping the board with your opposite foot.

5. Switch Pop Shove-It: Ensure you can perform the pop shove-it in switch stance as well.

Understanding the Mechanics: Breaking Down Each Component

The switch varial heelflip combines three elements:

1. Switch Stance: This means you ride with your non-dominant foot forward. For a regular stance skater, switch means your right foot leads, and for a goofy-footed skater, your left foot leads.

2. Heelflip: This involves flicking the board with your heel, causing it to flip once under your feet. The front foot provides the flicking motion while the back foot pops the tail.

3. Varial (Pop Shove-It): The pop shove-it part of the trick requires your back foot to scoop the tail, causing the board to spin 180 degrees.

Step-by-Step Guide to Learning the Switch Varial Heelflip

Step 1: Set Up Your Feet

Position your feet correctly to set the foundation for a successful switch varial heelflip:

• Front Foot: Place your front foot slightly behind the front bolts with your toes hanging off the edge of the board. The angle should be slightly diagonal, enabling a clean flick with your heel.

• Back Foot: Your back foot should be on the tail, positioned more towards the heelside edge. This position is crucial for getting a good pop and scoop for the shove-it motion.

Step 2: Build Momentum and Prepare

Gain some momentum by rolling at a comfortable speed. Bend your knees to prepare for the pop and the flick. Focus on keeping your weight centered and your shoulders aligned with the board.

Step 3: Execute the Pop and Flick

• Pop the Tail: Use your back foot to pop the tail down hard, simultaneously scooping it to initiate the shove-it motion. The scoop should be swift and controlled to achieve the 180-degree spin.

• Flick with Your Front Foot: As you pop, use your front foot’s heel to flick the board. Extend your leg and flick outwards towards the nose of the board. The motion should be quick and snappy to ensure a clean flip.

Step 4: Stay Centered and Watch the Board

As the board flips and spins beneath you, keep your eyes focused on it. Stay centered over the board by keeping your shoulders and hips aligned. This will help you maintain control and prepare for the landing.

Step 5: Catch the Board

Once the board completes the flip and spin, use your back foot to catch it first, followed by your front foot. This will help stabilize the board as you prepare to land.

Step 6: Land and Roll Away

Bend your knees to absorb the impact as you land. Keep your weight centered and roll away smoothly. Ensure you maintain balance and control as you ride away from the trick.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Like any complex skateboarding trick, the switch varial heelflip can present several challenges. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

Problem 1: Incomplete Flip or Spin

Solution: Focus on the flick and scoop techniques. Ensure that you are flicking the board sharply with your heel and scooping the tail firmly with your back foot. Adjust your foot placement if necessary to improve the flip and spin.

Problem 2: Losing Balance

Solution: Maintain a centered stance over the board. Keep your shoulders aligned with the board and avoid leaning too far forward or backward. Practicing switch riding and other switch tricks can help improve balance and control.

Problem 3: Not Landing Cleanly

Solution: Pay attention to catching the board with your back foot first. Practice the timing of your catch to ensure a smoother landing. Bend your knees as you land to absorb the impact and maintain control.

Problem 4: Board Flipping Too Fast or Too Slow

Solution: Adjust the flicking motion of your front foot. A faster flick will result in a quicker flip, while a more controlled flick will slow it down. Experiment with the speed and force of your flick to find the right balance.

Practice Drills and Exercises

To build consistency and confidence in executing the switch varial heelflip, incorporate the following practice drills into your routine:

1. Foot Positioning Drills: Practice setting up your feet in the correct position repeatedly without executing the trick. This will help you build muscle memory for quick and accurate foot placement.

2. Switch Riding: Spend time riding around in switch stance, practicing basic tricks like ollies, heelflips, and pop shove-its to improve your comfort and balance.

3. Flick and Scoop Drills: Focus on the flick and scoop motion separately. Stand stationary on your board and practice flicking with your front foot, followed by the scooping motion with your back foot.

4. Landing Practice: Use a soft surface, like grass or carpet, to practice landing the trick. This will help you focus on catching the board and improving your landing technique without worrying about falling.

Mental Preparation and Visualization

Mastering complex tricks like the switch varial heelflip requires not only physical practice but also mental preparation. Visualization is a powerful tool that can enhance your performance and boost your confidence. Here’s how to incorporate mental preparation into your training:

1. Visualize Success: Spend time visualizing yourself successfully performing the switch varial heelflip. Picture each step of the trick in detail, from the setup to the landing. This mental rehearsal helps reinforce your understanding of the trick and builds confidence.

2. Set Realistic Goals: Break down the learning process into achievable goals. Focus on mastering each component of the trick before attempting the full switch varial heelflip. Celebrate small victories along the way to stay motivated.

3. Stay Positive: Approach the learning process with a positive mindset. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and remember that progress takes time and perseverance.

Equipment and Setup

Having the right equipment can make a significant difference in your skateboarding experience. Here are some tips for optimizing your setup for the switch varial heelflip:

1. Board Size: Choose a skateboard size that suits your body type and riding style. A deck width between 7.75 and 8.25 inches is a good starting point for most skaters.

2. Grip Tape: Ensure your grip tape provides enough traction for effective flicking and control. Clean or replace it regularly to maintain optimal grip.

3. Trucks and Wheels: Adjust your trucks to your preference, keeping them tight enough for stability but loose enough for maneuverability. Choose wheels that suit the terrain you’re skating on, with a hardness and size that complements your style.

4. Footwear: Invest in quality skate shoes that provide support, flexibility, and grip. The right shoes can significantly enhance your control and performance.

The Path to Mastery: Consistency and Patience

Mastering the switch varial heelflip is a journey that requires dedication, consistency, and patience. Here are some final tips to guide you along the path to mastery:

1. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your skills and building confidence. Set aside dedicated time for practice sessions and focus on specific aspects of the trick each time.

2. Analyze and Adjust: Pay attention to your technique and analyze your attempts. Identify areas for improvement and make adjustments to your approach as needed.

3. Seek Feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback from fellow skaters or instructors. They can provide valuable insights and tips to help you refine your technique.

4. Stay Determined: Progress may be slow at times, but persistence is essential. Stay determined, stay positive, and remember that every attempt brings you closer to success.

5. Enjoy the Process: Embrace the journey of learning and enjoy each step of the process. Skateboarding is about creativity, expression, and having fun, so make sure to enjoy the ride.

The switch varial heelflip is a challenging yet rewarding trick that showcases your skill and creativity on a skateboard. By mastering the foundational components, practicing consistently, and maintaining a positive mindset, you can achieve success in executing this complex maneuver.