The ollie is the foundational trick every skater should master. It’s the key to many other tricks and opens up a world of possibilities. Here’s how to nail it:
Stance:
Foot Placement: Place your front foot near the middle of the board and your back foot on the tail. Your front foot should be at a slight angle (about 45 degrees) for better control.
Bend Your Knees:
Crouch down slightly to prepare for the jump. Keep your shoulders parallel with the board.
Pop the Tail:
Push down on the tail of the skateboard with your back foot to make the tail hit the ground. This is the “pop” part of the ollie. The harder you pop, the higher you can go.
Slide Your Front Foot:
As you pop the tail, jump up and slide your front foot up towards the nose of the board. This motion levels out the skateboard in mid-air.
Level Out:
At the peak of your jump, the board should be level with the ground. Keep your knees bent to absorb the impact when you land.
Land:
Try to land with both feet over the bolts to distribute the impact evenly. Bend your knees to further absorb the shock of landing.
Practice:
Repetition is key. Keep practicing these steps to improve your timing and coordination.
Tips:
Timing: The timing of the pop and the slide of your front foot is crucial.
Balance: Maintain your balance throughout the trick. Focus on keeping your shoulders parallel to the board.
Commitment: Fully commit to each attempt. Half-hearted attempts can lead to falls or improper technique.
Practice Stationary: Start by practicing the ollie on a stationary board before trying it while moving.
Use Grass: Practicing on grass or carpet can help you get used to the motion without the board rolling away.