Welcome to the thrilling world of skateboarding, where tricks aren’t just tricks—they’re a way of life, a statement, and sometimes, a spectacular wipeout in the making. Today, we’re diving into the jaw-dropping, board-spinning, foot-flipping magic of the varial heelflip. Ever wondered how to make your skateboard look like it's auditioning for a circus act while you nail that trick? Fear not! We’re here to break down the varial heelflip, sprinkle in some humor, and show you how Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles can help you become a local legend.
What is a Varial Heelflip?
Before you start imagining your skateboard as a magician’s wand, let’s clarify what a varial heelflip actually is. It’s a blend of two classic skateboarding tricks:
Kickflip: Your board does a 360-degree flip along its horizontal axis.
Shuvit: The board spins 180 degrees along its vertical axis.
When combined, you get the varial heelflip—a trick where the board performs a 360-degree spin with a heelflip. It’s like a kickflip with a little extra spin and pizzazz. To sum it up: it's one of those tricks that makes you look cooler than you actually are, kind of like wearing sunglasses indoors.
Prerequisites: Getting Your Skateboarding Basics Down
Before diving headfirst into the varial heelflip, you should master a few foundational tricks:
Ollie: The essential trick that involves popping the board off the ground. It’s the base for most tricks and the reason your board doesn’t just float away like an overzealous drone.
Kickflip: You need this trick to get the board flipping. Think of it as the cool cousin who shows up at family gatherings and makes everyone look twice.
Shuvit: This trick is crucial for the spinning aspect. It’s like the fun, carefree friend who’s always spinning in circles just for kicks.
If you can’t pull off these tricks smoothly, it might be time to hit the practice session before attempting the varial heelflip. The good news? Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles has got your back.
Preparing Your Skateboard for the Big Leagues
Your skateboard setup can impact your performance. Make sure your board is ready for action:
Deck Size: Opt for a medium-sized deck (7.75" to 8.25"). It’s the skateboard equivalent of wearing a well-fitted suit—just the right balance of style and functionality.
Grip Tape: Fresh grip tape keeps your feet from slipping off and your tricks from becoming unintentional dance moves. A grippy surface is crucial for flicking and control.
Trucks: Adjust the tightness to suit your preference. Too loose and you’ll wobble; too tight and you’ll feel like you’re skating on a tightrope.
Wheels: Medium-sized wheels (50mm to 54mm) are ideal. They give you a good mix of speed and control, like having a sports car with a smooth ride.
Foot Placement and Body Position: The Basics
Correct foot placement and body alignment are essential for nailing that varial heelflip. Here’s how to get it just right:
Foot Placement
Front Foot: Position it near the middle of the board, angled slightly. Your toes should hang off a bit, ready to execute the heelflip with a flick.
Back Foot: Place it on the tail, slightly off-center. This foot is responsible for the 180-degree spin and pop.
Body Position
Shoulders: Keep them aligned with the board. Imagine your shoulders as a compass guiding the direction of your trick.
Knees: Bend them to prepare for the pop and flick. Think of them as the shock absorbers of a car—vital for a smooth landing.
Head: Keep your gaze focused on the board. No peeking at your phone or daydreaming about your next meal!
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Varial Heelflip
Step 1: Setup and Approach
Ride at a comfortable speed. Place your feet as described above and get a feel for how the board reacts.
Step 2: Pop and Spin
Pop the Board: Use your back foot to pop the tail down. It’s like giving your board a firm nudge, making it leap into the air.
Scoop with Back Foot: As you pop, scoop the board 180 degrees with your back foot. This action will initiate the spin.
Step 3: Execute the Heelflip
Flick with the Front Foot: As the board begins to rise, use your front foot to flick the edge of the board. This flick will cause the board to flip while spinning.
Step 4: Catch the Board
Spot the Board: Keep your eyes glued to the board as it spins and flips. This is where your ability to focus will pay off.
Catch with Back Foot: As the board completes its rotation, use your back foot to catch and stabilize it.
Step 5: Land and Roll Away
Land with Both Feet: Bend your knees to absorb the landing and ensure both feet land over the bolts for stability.
Roll Away Smoothly: Continue rolling forward and celebrate your successful varial heelflip. Maybe do a victory dance if no one’s watching.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even seasoned skaters encounter problems with the varial heelflip. Here’s how to tackle common issues:
Problem 1: Incomplete Spin or Flip
Solution: Focus on your scoop and flick techniques. Make sure you’re giving the board enough of both to complete the trick. Practice each motion separately if needed.
Problem 2: Board Flipping Away
Solution: Check your foot placement and body alignment. Ensure your flick is directed toward the nose of the board, and your scoop is consistent.
Problem 3: Not Catching the Board
Solution: Practice spotting the board and catching it mid-air. Work on your timing and aim to catch the board with your back foot as it completes the flip.
Problem 4: Landing Off-Balance
Solution: Maintain your balance throughout the trick. Keep your weight centered over the board and bend your knees to absorb the landing impact.
How Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles Can Help
Mastering a trick like the varial heelflip is a thrilling challenge that benefits from expert guidance and practice. Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles offers a range of skateboarding lessons and surf lessons to help you achieve your goals, whether you're mastering tricks or riding the waves.
Why Choose Coyote Skate & Surf School?
Experienced Instructors: Our instructors are passionate skateboarders and surfers who bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to each lesson.
Tailored Lessons: We offer personalized skateboard and surf lessons tailored to your skill level and goals. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to perfect your tricks, we’ve got you covered.
Supportive Environment: Our school provides a friendly and encouraging atmosphere, ideal for learning and improving. We celebrate progress and make the learning process fun and engaging.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum includes everything from basic skills to advanced tricks and techniques. We provide structured lessons to help you advance efficiently.
Convenient Locations: With locations in Los Angeles, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica, we offer flexible and accessible options for your skateboarding and surfing adventures.
Benefits of Professional Skateboarding and Surfing Lessons
Accelerated Learning: Expert guidance helps you learn tricks more quickly and efficiently. Our instructors offer valuable tips and feedback to enhance your skills.
Improved Technique: We focus on refining your technique and addressing common mistakes. Personalized feedback helps you improve and develop your unique style.
Increased Confidence: Mastering new tricks and skills boosts your confidence. Our supportive environment encourages you to take risks and push your limits.
Safety and Injury Prevention: Our instructors prioritize safety and teach proper techniques to minimize the risk of injury. We emphasize the importance of protective gear and smart practices.
Practice Drills and Exercises
To improve your varial heelflip consistency, incorporate these drills into your practice routine:
Nollie and Kickflip Practice
Work on your nollies and kickflips separately to build a strong foundation for the varial heelflip. Focus on perfecting each component of the trick.
Shuvit and Scoop Drills
Practice 180 and 360 shuvits to build confidence in the spinning aspect. Pay attention to your back foot’s scoop and control.
Pop and Balance Exercises
Perform ollies and kickflips on flat ground to enhance your pop and balance. Consistent pop and landing technique are crucial for a successful varial heelflip.
Embrace the Journey
Learning the varial heelflip is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and remember that every attempt brings you closer to mastering the trick. Whether you're hitting the skateparks of 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 & Surf School, you'll be well on your way to mastering the varial heelflip and expanding your skateboarding skills. 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.
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