Skateboarding is an exhilarating and difficult activity that demands a balance of skill, co-ordination, and imagination. Numerous of the most popular tricks are the frontside and backside flip, two foundational procedures all skateboarders should understand. These maneuvers may appear intimidating at first glance, but with the right approach and training, you can easily learn them in no time.
In this article, we will examine the stages involved in performing a frontside as well as backside flip, from stance to touchdown. We will also review frequent errors and provide advice to help you refine your technique. Let’s get started!
Understanding the Difference between Frontside and Backside Flip
When it comes to which flip you should use while skateboarding, it’s important to understand the difference between a front-side flip and a backside flip.
A frontside flip involves flipping the board in front of you, with your feet positioned on the outside edges of your board. This flip requires you to rotate your body in order for the board to complete the flips manoeuvre. When performing this type of flip, it’s important to remember that the rotation will be in an anti-clockwise motion.
On the other hand, a backside flip requires flipping the board behind you instead of in front of you. This requires turning your shoulders and hips towards the direction that is opposite from where your feet are facing.
In terms of timing and movement, this is typically done after launching off an obstacle or ramp. The rotation for a backside flip occurs clockwise when compared to a frontside flip.
It’s also important to note that your foot positioning will dictate which type of flip you are going to perform when considering these two differences.
Foot Placement and Stance
Getting your foot placement and stance right is essential for executing a successful frontside or backside flip.
For a frontside flip, your front foot should be positioned behind the front truck bolts of the board, with your toes hanging over the edge slightly. Your back foot should then be placed on the tail, toes facing off the edge. When in position, make sure that your stance is shoulder-width apart and that both knees are slightly bent.
When performing a backside flip, you’ll need to adjust your foot positioning accordingly. Your front foot should still be positioned at the front truck bolts, but this time facing outwards instead of towards the nose of the board.
Similarly, place your back foot on the tail with your heels hanging off slightly from the edge. Again remember to keep knees slightly bent and your stance shoulder-width apart for optimal balance during execution of this trick.
Pop and Flick
Once you have your foot placement and stance sorted, it’s time to pop and flick the board. To execute a frontside flip, use your back foot to pop the tail of the skateboard and launch it into the air. As the board begins to rise, use your front foot to flick it in an anti-clockwise motion towards the heel side of the board.
For a backside flip, use your back foot once again to pop the tail of the skateboard, but this time you need to flick it with your front foot in a clockwise motion towards the toe side of the board. Remember that when performing these flicking motions, a stronger flick will result in more height and rotation during your flip.
Board Rotation
As the board is flipping, it is important to rotate your body accordingly in order to maintain control and balance.
For a frontside flip, you need to twist your shoulders towards the toe side of the board. This will help you keep your balance and control as the board rotates in a clockwise direction.
For a backside flip, similarly, twist your shoulders towards the heel side of the board as the board rotates anti-clockwise in mid-air. Maintaining body rotation throughout this trick is essential for executing it successfully.
Catching the Board
Once the flip is complete, your feet need to catch the board and bring it back under your feet. Your back foot should be placed firmly on the tail of the skateboard, while your front foot should be placed just in front of the bolts.
Be mindful of how much clearance you have around you as you catch the board so that you don’t interfere with its rotation. With practice, you’ll become adept at timing when to catch the board perfectly and land it without any difficulty.
Commitment and Confidence
Performing a frontside or backside flip requires a lot of commitment and confidence. You need to be fully dedicated to the trick and trust your own ability to complete it. It is normal for your confidence to waver sometimes, but you must stay focused and determined in order to master it. Even if you fall several times, don’t give up – practice makes perfect!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When learning how to perform a frontside or backside flip, there are some common mistakes that beginners tend to make. Popping the board too weakly is an issue that can cause a weak flip, so it’s important to give the board an adequate amount of pop.
If you hesitate during the trick, you could end up bailing mid-turn. To avoid these mistakes, make sure you practice with proper form and focus on getting more height and power from your pop.
Practicing on Flat Ground
Practicing on flat ground is the best way to perfect your frontside and backside flip. It’s important to find a smooth and flat surface with plenty of room to move around.
Begin by practicing just the pop and flick motion, and then gradually work up to the full trick. Make sure you practice until you can consistently land it with control. As you continue to practice, focus on getting more height and power from your pop for a cleaner flip.
Progressing to Obstacles
Once you’re comfortable with performing the frontside and backside flip on flat ground, you can move on to obstacles. Start with smaller obstacles such as curbs and small ramps. As your confidence and skills improve, progress to larger obstacles.
Whenever you approach an obstacle it’s important to use caution and wear proper safety gear. With practice, determination and patience, you will eventually master the trick.
Tweaking Your Technique
As you practice the frontside and backside flip, you may notice certain elements of your technique that could be improved. Focus on adjusting your timing, pop and flick action as well as experimenting with different foot positioning to find what works best for you.
When tweaking your technique, don’t be afraid to try new things or go outside of your comfort zone. With patience and practice, you’ll eventually find the ideal technique that works for you.
Pushing Your Limits
Now that you’ve mastered the frontside and backside flip, it’s time to push your limits and challenge yourself. Look for ways to mix up the trick by adding variations such as a frontside flip to fakie or a backside flip to manual.
It’s important to have proper form and safety measures in mind when attempting new tricks. With some practice, patience and dedication, you’ll be able to master these more advanced variations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mastering the frontside and backside flip can be achieved by following the key steps and tips outlined in this guide. With dedication, practice and patience, you will gain the confidence to take on more challenging skateboard tricks.
Whenever performing any skateboarding trick or activity, it’s important to wear proper safety gear and practice in a safe environment. Good luck on your skateboarding journey!
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!