As any avid skateboarder will tell you, even the simplest of flip tricks require advanced board control and a tall vertical leap. Many novice boarders make the mistake of trying difficult tricks before mastering the beginner techniques. This can often result in painful spills and collisions with fellow riders. Practice these tricks in a low-traffic location such as your driveway or local skateboard park.
The Nose Manual
The nose manual is one of the most stylish tricks for beginners. Pro skater Brandon Biebel recommends learning the trick on a small manual pad in a parking lot or skate park. Apply pressure to the tail of the skateboard with your back foot. Jump vertically as you hear the tail make contact with the ground. Slide your lead foot forward to level out the board. Lean forward to land on the front wheels. Extend your arms while rolling forward in the nose manual position. Roll off the end of the obstacle to complete the trick.
Frontside Shuvit
Learn the frontside shuvit on flat ground before taking it to a ramp. Align your lead foot toward the middle of the board with your toes hanging over the edge. Position your back foot on the tail of the board with your heel hanging off. Apply pressure to the tail while jumping vertically. Kick your lead foot backward while pushing your back foot forward. Lift your shoes to allow the board to spin. Lower your feet as the board completes a 180-degree rotation.
Kickflip
Many beginners find the kickflip intimidating as it involves flipping the skateboard upside for a split second. Align your back foot on the tail of the board. Pro skater Lizard King recommends placing your front foot toward the middle of the board with your heel hanging off. Pop the tail against the ground while jumping vertically. Kick your lead foot against the edge of the skateboard. Lift your feet to allow the board to flip. Lower your feet onto the grip tape as the board flips around.
Heelflip
Proper foot placement is an essential part of a successful heelflip. Slide your lead foot to the middle of the skateboard with your toes hanging off. Align your back foot on the tail in a centered position. Pop the tail while leaping into the air. Kick the heel off your lead foot against the outer edge of the board. Elevate your feet to allow the board to flip. Lower your shoes as the board flips around. Bend your knees to absorb the impact.
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