The 360 flip, also known as the tre flip, is a popular and stylish trick that every skateboarder aspires to master. It combines a kickflip with a 360-degree rotation of the board, resulting in a trick that looks impressive and is incredibly satisfying to land. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the steps to mastering the 360 flip, offer tips to troubleshoot common issues, and highlight how Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles can help you learn this trick through expert skateboard lessons.
What is a 360 Flip?
A 360 flip involves flipping the skateboard with your front foot while simultaneously using your back foot to spin the board 360 degrees along the vertical axis. This trick combines a kickflip with a pop shove-it, making it one of the more complex tricks in skateboarding.
Key Components of a 360 Flip
Kickflip: Flipping the board with the front foot.
360 Pop Shove-it: Spinning the board 360 degrees with the back foot.
Timing: Proper synchronization of the kick and spin.
Control: Balancing and catching the board in mid-air.
Prerequisites: Building Your Foundation
Before attempting a 360 flip, it's crucial to have a strong foundation in the following tricks:
Ollie: The most basic trick in skateboarding that involves popping the board off the ground.
Kickflip: The board flips 360 degrees along its horizontal axis.
360 Pop Shove-it: The board spins 360 degrees along its vertical axis without flipping.
Pop Shove-it: The board spins 180 degrees along its vertical axis without flipping.
Being proficient in these tricks will give you the skills and confidence needed to tackle the 360 flip.
Preparing Your Skateboard Setup
Having the right skateboard setup can significantly impact your ability to perform a 360 flip. Here are some considerations for your gear:
Deck Size: A medium-sized deck (around 7.75" to 8.25") provides a good balance of control and stability.
Grip Tape: Ensure your grip tape is fresh and grippy to help with flicking the board.
Trucks: Adjust your trucks to a comfortable tightness that allows for smooth spins and solid landings.
Wheels: Medium-sized wheels (50mm to 54mm) are ideal for street skating and learning flip tricks.
Foot Placement and Body Position
Correct foot placement and body position are crucial for successfully executing a 360 flip. Here’s how to set up for the trick:
Foot Placement
Front Foot: Position your front foot just below the front bolts at a slight angle, similar to a kickflip setup. Your toes should hang off the edge of the board slightly.
Back Foot: Place your back foot on the tail with your toes hanging off the edge. This position will help you scoop the board effectively.
Body Position
Shoulders: Keep your shoulders parallel to the board.
Knees: Bend your knees to prepare for the pop and flick.
Head: Look straight ahead and stay focused on the nose of the board.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a 360 Flip
Step 1: Setup and Approach
Begin by riding at a comfortable speed with your feet in the correct positions. Find a flat, smooth surface to practice on.
Step 2: Pop and Scoop
Pop the Tail: Use your back foot to pop the tail down firmly, as you would in an ollie. This action will initiate the board's upward motion.
Scoop the Tail: Simultaneously scoop the tail backward with your back foot, initiating the board’s 360-degree spin.
Step 3: Execute the Flick
Flick with the Front Foot: As the board begins to rise and spin, use your front foot to flick the board’s edge. Slide your foot up towards the nose and flick it outwards to start the kickflip rotation.
Step 4: Catch the Board
Spot the Board: Keep your eyes on the board as it flips and spins beneath you.
Catch with Your Back Foot: As the board completes its 360 flip, aim to catch it with your back foot to stabilize it before landing.
Step 5: Land and Roll Away
Land with Both Feet: Bend your knees to absorb the impact and ensure both feet are over the bolts for stability.
Roll Away Smoothly: Maintain your balance and continue riding forward smoothly, celebrating your successful 360 flip!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Learning the 360 flip can be challenging, and skaters often encounter similar issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
Problem 1: Incomplete Flip or Spin
Solution: Focus on your flick and scoop techniques. Ensure you’re using enough force with your front foot to complete the flip and with your back foot to complete the spin. Practice each motion separately if needed.
Problem 2: Board Flipping Away
Solution: Check your foot placement and body alignment. Keep your shoulders parallel to the board and ensure your flick is directed towards the nose, not off to the side.
Problem 3: Not Catching the Board
Solution: Practice spotting the board during its rotation. Work on your timing and aim to catch the board with your back foot as it completes the flip.
Problem 4: Landing Off-Balance
Solution: Focus on maintaining your balance throughout the trick. Keep your weight centered over the board and bend your knees to absorb the landing impact.
How Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles Can Help
Mastering a trick like the 360 flip requires guidance, practice, and dedication. Coyote Skate School in Los Angeles offers expert lessons and personalized coaching to help skaters of all levels learn this and other tricks.
Why Choose Coyote Skate School?
Experienced Instructors: Our team of experienced instructors are passionate about skateboarding and dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.
Tailored Lessons: We offer personalized lessons tailored to your skill level and learning style, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater.
Supportive Environment: At Coyote Skate School, we foster a supportive and encouraging environment where skaters can learn, progress, and have fun.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum covers a wide range of tricks and skills, from basics to advanced maneuvers. We provide structured lessons and practice sessions for efficient progress.
Convenient Locations: Located in the heart of Los Angeles, our skate school is easily accessible and offers diverse locations for skateboarding experiences, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica.
Benefits of Professional Skateboarding Lessons
Accelerated Learning: With professional guidance, you’ll learn tricks more quickly and efficiently. Our instructors provide valuable insights and techniques to accelerate your learning process.
Improved Technique: We focus on refining your technique and helping you overcome common mistakes. Our instructors provide personalized feedback to improve your skills and develop your unique style.
Increased Confidence: As you progress and master new tricks, your confidence on the board will grow. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can take risks and push your limits.
Safety and Injury Prevention: Our instructors prioritize safety and teach proper techniques to minimize the risk of injury. We emphasize the importance of wearing protective gear and practicing smart skateboarding habits.
Practice Drills and Exercises
To improve your 360 flip consistency and confidence, incorporate these practice drills into your routine:
Scoop and Flick Practice
Without popping the board, practice the scooping and flicking motions while standing still. Focus on making a crisp flick and observing how the board spins under different angles and pressures.
360 Pop Shove-it Drills
Practice performing 360 pop shove-its separately to build confidence in the spinning aspect of the trick. Pay attention to your back foot’s scooping motion.
Kickflip Variations
Perform kickflips with different flick intensities and angles to understand how the board reacts. This practice will improve your flick technique for the 360 flip.
Pop and Balance Exercises
Work on your pop and balance by performing ollies and kickflips on flat ground. Focus on maintaining a consistent pop and landing smoothly with both feet over the bolts.
Embrace the Journey
Learning the 360 flip is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires patience, persistence, and passion. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and remember that every attempt brings you closer to mastering the trick. Whether you're skating in Los Angeles, Venice Beach, or Santa Monica, enjoy the thrill of skateboarding and the endless possibilities it offers.
By following this comprehensive guide and seeking expert guidance from Coyote Skate School, you'll be well on your way to mastering the 360 flip and expanding your skateboarding repertoire. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, there's always something new to learn and discover in the world of skateboarding. Keep pushing your limits, exploring new tricks, and enjoying the incredible journey that skateboarding offers.
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