A Deep Dive into the Fakie Big Spin [Complete Guide]

Skateboarding is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires dedication and practice to master. For skateboarders looking to take their skills to the next level, the Fakie Big Spin is a trick worth adding to their arsenal. This trick involves a combination of board control, foot placement, and body positioning to execute a smooth and stylish spin.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skateboarder, mastering the Fakie Big Spin can be a fun and rewarding challenge. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at the Fakie Big Spin, including its history, the mechanics behind the trick, step-by-step instructions on how to do it, common mistakes to avoid, tips for mastering the trick, and more. With this guide, you will have all the tools and knowledge you need to take your skateboarding skills to new heights.

What is a Fakie Big Spin?

Explanation of the trick and its history

A Fakie Big Spin is a skateboarding trick that involves spinning the board 360 degrees while simultaneously performing a Fakie (rolling backward with the tail of the board facing forward) in the opposite direction.

The trick was first popularized by professional skateboarder Rodney Mullen in the early 1980s, and has since become a staple of modern street skateboarding.

Comparison to other skateboard tricks

The Fakie Big Spin is a combination trick, incorporating elements of both the Fakie and the Big Spin. The Fakie involves riding backward, while the Big Spin involves a 360-degree spin of the board under the rider’s feet.

As such, the Fakie Big Spin can be considered a more advanced version of both tricks, requiring a high level of board control and coordination. Other tricks that are similar to the Fakie Big Spin include the Frontside Big Spin, the Backside Big Spin, and the 360 Flip.

The physics behind the Fakie Big Spin

The Fakie Big Spin is a complex trick that involves several physical principles. When performing the trick, the rider applies pressure to the tail of the board with their back foot, causing it to pop up off the ground. The rider then uses their front foot to flick the board in a 360-degree spin, while simultaneously jumping and turning their body in the opposite direction.

The rider must then catch the board with their feet and land smoothly. The physics of the trick involve rotational motion, angular momentum, and conservation of energy, all of which are important to understand in order to master the Fakie Big Spin.

Understanding the Basics

The necessary equipment for performing the Fakie Big Spin

Before attempting the Fakie Big Spin, it is important to have the necessary equipment. This includes a skateboard with a suitable deck size and shape, as well as high-quality trucks, bearings, and wheels. It is also important to wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards.

Essential skateboard terminology

Skateboarding has its own unique terminology, and understanding this terminology is essential for mastering the Fakie Big Spin. Some key terms to know include:

• Deck: The main board part of the skateboard
• Trucks: The metal parts that connect the deck to the wheels
• Grip tape: The rough, sandpapery material on the top of the deck that provides traction
• Wheels: The circular parts that attach to the trucks and allow the skateboard to roll
• Bearings: The small metal parts that fit inside the wheels and allow them to spin
• Tail: The back end of the skateboard
• Nose: The front end of the skateboard

Foot placement and body positioning

Proper foot placement and body positioning are crucial for successfully executing the Fakie Big Spin. The rider should start by standing with their front foot near the middle of the board, and their back foot on the tail.

As the rider begins to initiate the trick, they should jump with both feet and spin their body 180 degrees while simultaneously flicking the board with their front foot. The rider should then catch the board with their feet and land smoothly.

Pre-requisite tricks to learn before attempting the Fakie Big Spin

The Fakie Big Spin is an advanced skateboarding trick, and it is important to have a solid foundation of basic tricks before attempting it.

Some pre-requisite tricks to learn include the Fakie, the Big Spin, and the Kickflip. It is also important to have a good understanding of basic board control, balance, and coordination before attempting the Fakie Big Spin.

How to do a Fakie Big Spin

Step-by-step instructions on how to do a Fakie Big Spin

Executing a Fakie Big Spin requires a combination of board control, coordination, and timing. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Start by rolling forward at a slow to medium pace, and then come to a complete stop.
2. Turn your board around and place your back foot on the tail with your front foot near the middle of the board.
3. Begin to roll backward in a Fakie position.
4. As you gain speed, shift your weight to your back foot and pop the tail down with a strong snap.
5. Simultaneously flick the front of the board with your front foot to initiate the spin.
6. Jump and rotate your body 180 degrees in the opposite direction of the board spin.
7. Keep your eyes on the board and try to catch it with both feet as it completes the 360-degree spin.
8. Land with both feet on the board and ride away smoothly.

Tips for executing the trick smoothly and consistently

Executing the Fakie Big Spin requires practice and patience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Start by practicing the trick while standing still to get a feel for the foot and body movements.
• Focus on popping the board and flicking it with your front foot at the same time for a smooth spin.
• Keep your body centered over the board throughout the trick to maintain balance and control.
• As you catch the board, try to absorb the impact with your knees to avoid a hard landing.
• Practice the trick on different surfaces and at different speeds to develop consistency and versatility.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Mistakes are common when learning the Fakie Big Spin, but they can be avoided with practice and attention to detail. Some common mistakes include:

• Not popping the board hard enough, which can cause the board to spin slowly or not spin at all.
• Not flicking the board with the front foot at the same time as popping the tail, which can cause the board to spin in the wrong direction.
• Not rotating the body enough, which can cause the board to hit the rider’s feet or spin out of control.
• Not keeping the body centered over the board, which can cause the rider to lose balance and fall.
• To avoid these mistakes, focus on the proper timing and coordination of the foot and body movements, and practice consistently.

Variations of the Fakie Big Spin

Once you have mastered the basic Fakie Big Spin, there are several variations you can try, including the Frontside Fakie Big Spin, the Backside Fakie Big Spin, and the Fakie Big Spin 360. These variations involve different body and foot movements, and can add complexity and style to your skateboarding repertoire.

Mastering the Fakie Big Spin

Drills and exercises to improve balance, timing, and technique

To improve your Fakie Big Spin skills, it’s essential to practice drills and exercises that target balance, timing, and technique. Here are some drills to try:

• Practice stationary board spins by standing on the board and spinning it with your feet.
• Practice rolling 180-degree pivots to improve your body rotation skills.
• Practice balance exercises by standing on one foot or practicing manual tricks.
• Use a balance board or a wobble board to improve your balance and stability.
• Practice the Fakie Big Spin on different surfaces and in different conditions to improve your adaptability.

How to progress from beginner to advanced levels

As you progress with the Fakie Big Spin, you can challenge yourself with more advanced variations and combinations. Here are some ways to progress:

• Try different foot and body movements, such as adding shuvits or flips to the Fakie Big Spin.
• Increase the speed and height of the trick to add difficulty.
• Combine the Fakie Big Spin with other tricks to create combos and lines.
• Experiment with the trick in different skateboarding disciplines, such as street, park, or vert.

Combining the Fakie Big Spin with other tricks

The Fakie Big Spin can be combined with other tricks to create unique lines and combos. Here are some tricks to try combining with the Fakie Big Spin:

• 180 flips (e.g., Kickflip Fakie Big Spin)
• Shuvits (e.g., Backside Shuvit Fakie Big Spin)
• Slides and grinds (e.g., Fakie Big Spin to Boardslide)

Using the Fakie Big Spin in different skateboarding disciplines (e.g., street, park, vert)

The Fakie Big Spin can be used in different skateboarding disciplines to add variety and creativity to your riding. Here are some ways to use the trick in different disciplines:

• Street: Use the Fakie Big Spin as a part of a street line, combining it with grinds and slides.
• Park: Use the Fakie Big Spin on transition ramps, such as quarter pipes or mini-ramps, adding height and speed to the trick.
• Vert: Use the Fakie Big Spin to add style and complexity to vert riding, combining it with airs and grabs.

Video Tutorials

A selection of online videos demonstrating the Fakie Big Spin

One of the best ways to learn the Fakie Big Spin is by watching online video tutorials. Here are some of the best video tutorials to watch:

• Braille Skateboarding: “How to Fakie Big Spin”
• VLSkate: “Fakie Big Spin – Step by Step”
• Skateboard Bruh: “How to Fakie Big Spin”

Analysis and breakdown of the technique used by professional skateboarders

Watching professional skateboarders perform the Fakie Big Spin can be incredibly helpful in understanding the proper technique. Here are some professional skateboarders to watch:

• Nyjah Huston
• Shane O’Neill
• Chris Cole

Slow-motion footage and visual aids to help beginners understand the trick

Slow-motion footage and visual aids can help beginners understand the proper technique of the Fakie Big Spin. Here are some resources to watch:

• Slow-motion tutorial by Skateboard Bruh
• Animation breakdown by VLSkate
• Tips and visual aids by Braille Skateboarding

Equipment and Safety

Recommended safety gear for skateboarding

Skateboarding can be a dangerous activity, so it’s important to wear the right safety gear. Here are some recommended safety gear for skateboarding:

• Helmet: A helmet is essential for protecting your head in case of a fall.
• Knee pads: Knee pads can help prevent knee injuries from falls and impacts.
• Elbow pads: Elbow pads can help prevent elbow injuries from falls and impacts.
• Wrist guards: Wrist guards can help prevent wrist injuries from falls and impacts.

Tips for choosing the right skateboard for your skill level and riding style

Choosing the right skateboard is important for your safety and performance. Here are some tips for choosing the right skateboard:

• Skateboard size: Choose a skateboard that is appropriate for your height and shoe size.
• Skateboard shape: Choose a skateboard with a shape that suits your riding style and preferences.
• Skateboard trucks: Choose skateboard trucks that are appropriate for your skill level and riding style.
• Skateboard wheels: Choose skateboard wheels that are appropriate for your skill level and riding style.

Maintaining and repairing your skateboard for optimal performance

Maintaining and repairing your skateboard is important for optimal performance and safety. Here are some tips for maintaining and repairing your skateboard:

• Regularly clean your skateboard to prevent dirt and debris from affecting its performance.
• Check your skateboard regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
• Replace worn or damaged parts as needed, such as bearings, wheels, and grip tape.
• Keep your skateboard properly adjusted and tightened for optimal performance and safety.

Skateboarding Culture and Community

The history and evolution of skateboarding culture

Skateboarding has a rich history and culture that has evolved over time. From its origins in California in the 1940s and 1950s to its mainstream popularity in the 1990s and beyond, skateboarding culture has been shaped by a variety of factors, including music, fashion, and art.

Famous skateboarders who have mastered the Fakie Big Spin

Many famous skateboarders have mastered the Fakie Big Spin and helped to popularize the trick. Here are some famous skateboarders to know:

• Nyjah Huston: A professional skateboarder who is known for his technical skills and consistency, including his Fakie Big Spin.
• Shane O’Neill: A professional skateboarder who is known for his smooth and precise style, including his Fakie Big Spin.
• Chris Cole: A professional skateboarder who is known for his versatility and creativity, including his Fakie Big Spin.

The importance of community and support in skateboarding

Skateboarding is not just a sport, but also a community and culture that provides support and camaraderie for skateboarders of all levels. Whether through local skate shops, skate parks, or online communities, skateboarders can find the support and encouragement they need to improve their skills and enjoy the sport. Additionally, skateboarding culture often emphasizes creativity, self-expression, and individuality, which can be empowering for skateboarders of all backgrounds.

Recap of key points covered in the guide

In this guide, we’ve covered the basics of the Fakie Big Spin, including its history, equipment needed, how to do the trick, and drills to improve your technique. We’ve also discussed the physics behind the trick, common mistakes to avoid, and variations of the trick. Additionally, we’ve touched on the importance of safety gear, skateboarding culture and community, and famous skateboarders who have mastered the Fakie Big Spin.

Final thoughts on the Fakie Big Spin and its place in skateboarding

The Fakie Big Spin is a challenging and impressive trick that requires practice, skill, and patience to master. As one of the more technical skateboard tricks, it has become a staple in skateboarding culture and is often used in competitions and demonstrations.

Encouragement for readers to practice and have fun with the trick

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skateboarder, the Fakie Big Spin can be a fun and rewarding trick to learn. Remember to practice in a safe environment, use proper safety gear, and have fun with the process. With dedication and practice, you too can master the Fakie Big Spin and take your skateboarding skills to the next level.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to learn the Fakie Big Spin?

Learning the Fakie Big Spin takes time and practice, and the length of time it takes to master the trick varies depending on the individual’s skill level and dedication. Some may pick it up quickly, while others may take weeks or even months of consistent practice to get it down.

2. Is the Fakie Big Spin a dangerous trick?

Like any skateboarding trick, there is always a risk of injury when attempting the Fakie Big Spin. However, with proper safety gear and technique, the risk can be minimized. Always wear a helmet and other protective gear, and make sure to practice the trick in a safe and controlled environment.

3. Can the Fakie Big Spin be done on any type of skateboard?

The Fakie Big Spin can be performed on any type of skateboard, but some may be more suitable than others. A skateboard with a medium to large-sized deck, medium concave, and medium to hard wheels is recommended for this trick.

4. How can I improve my Fakie Big Spin technique?

Practice is key to improving your Fakie Big Spin technique. However, there are several drills and exercises you can do to strengthen your balance and timing, such as practicing the trick stationary, practicing the rotation without popping, and practicing the trick with your eyes closed.

5. Are there any variations of the Fakie Big Spin?

Yes, there are several variations of the Fakie Big Spin that can be done by adding or removing certain elements of the trick. Some popular variations include the Half Cab Big Spin, the Frontside Big Spin, and the Backside Big Spin.