How to Nollie: A Step-by-Step Skateboarding Tutorial

What is a Nollie?

The nollie is a fundamental skateboarding trick that is often considered the front-foot version of the ollie. This trick involves popping the board off the ground using your front foot while keeping your back foot on the tail. It serves as a building block for a variety of advanced tricks, making it an essential maneuver for any skateboarder looking to expand their repertoire.

How to Prepare for the Nollie

Before attempting a nollie, ensure you are comfortable with riding your skateboard and performing basic maneuvers like the ollie. Being proficient in these skills will help you execute the nollie more effectively. Start by finding a flat and smooth surface where you can practice without distractions. Here are some pre-requisites to consider:

• Good balance while riding your skateboard.

• Familiarity with snapping the tail of the board down with your back foot.

• Confidence in jumping with both feet to control the board.

Step-by-Step Guide to Executing a Nollie

Once you feel ready, follow these steps to learn the nollie:

1. Position Your Feet: Place your back foot on the tail of the skateboard firmly, while your front foot should be positioned near the front bolts on the board at a slight angle.

2. Squat Down: Bend your knees to prepare for the motion. This will give you the necessary power when you jump.

3. Pop the Board: Push down on the tail with your back foot while simultaneously jumping with your front foot. Make sure to lift your front foot upwards as the board pops off the ground.

4. Level the Board: As you pop the board, use your front foot to level it out mid-air. This requires practice to perfect and will help prevent the board from kicking out.

5. Land Smoothly: Aim to land with your knees slightly bent to absorb the impact. Position your feet over the bolts to maintain balance upon landing.

As with any trick, practice is key. You may not land the nollie perfectly on your first try, but with time and perseverance, you will improve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To enhance your chances of success with the nollie, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not popping the board high enough—make sure to fully utilize your foot to create enough lift.

• Leaning too far forward or back during the trick, as this can cause you to lose balance.

• Landing with your feet too far apart or on the edge of the board, which makes it difficult to ride away smoothly.

In conclusion, the nollie is a rewarding trick that opens up a world of possibilities in skateboarding. With dedication and practice, you can master this trick and use it as a foundation for more advanced skateboarding skills.