How to Ollie: Step-by-Step Guide to An Essential Trick

Introduction to the Ollie

The ollie is arguably the backbone of skateboarding tricks. This fundamental maneuver allows skaters to elevate their boards off the ground without using their hands, opening the door to countless other tricks. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, understanding how to perform an ollie is crucial. In this tutorial, we will break down the steps required to master the ollie and improve your overall skating abilities.

Preparing for the Ollie

Before you dive into the actual execution of the ollie, ensure you're comfortable on your skateboard. Find a flat and open area to practice, ideally away from obstacles and traffic. Start riding your board in a relaxed manner, focusing on your balance and stance. Place your feet correctly: your back foot should be on the tail, while your front foot is positioned about shoulder-width apart towards the middle of the board. Getting comfortable in this position will make the trick execution easier.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing an Ollie

Now that you're prepared, let’s break down the ollie into manageable steps. First, initiate the trick by crouching slightly to gain momentum. As you start to straighten your knees, apply pressure with your back foot onto the tail of the skateboard. This action causes the tail to hit the ground, propelling the board upwards.

Simultaneously, as your back foot pushes down, drag your front foot up the board towards the nose. This is critical because it helps lift the board off the ground. Focus on snapping your legs up towards your chest while pushing down with your back foot. This combination of actions generates the lift needed for the ollie.

Finally, as the board rises, prepare to land by extending your knees slightly to absorb the impact. Your feet should stay above the board, and you should aim to land with both feet over the bolts to ensure stability. Practice is key; don’t get discouraged if you don’t land it perfectly on your first try.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While learning how to do an ollie, many skateboarders make mistakes that can hinder their progress. One common error is not giving enough pop with the tail. Remember, a strong push down is crucial for height. Another mistake is dragging the front foot too slowly or not at all, which results in the board not lifting appropriately.

Lastly, many beginner skaters tend to land with their feet too far back, which can lead to a wobble or losing balance. Keep your feet centered and practice landing softly by bending your knees upon impact. By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the ollie.

Learning how to do an ollie is an essential step in becoming a proficient skateboarder. It may take time and practice to perfect, but with patience and a focus on the fundamental techniques, you will see improvement. Keep practicing, stay motivated, and soon you’ll be nailing your ollies with confidence. Happy skating!