Los Angeles' favorite skate coach breaks it down in today's skateboard trick tip video!
If you're looking to add a little flair to your skateboarding skills, the backside 180 heelflip is the perfect trick to learn. This trick combines the graceful spin of a backside 180 with the crisp, clean flick of a heelflip, making it a crowd-pleaser at any skate park. But don't let its impressive appearance fool you—this trick is as challenging as it is rewarding. In this guide, we'll break down the steps to mastering the backside 180 heelflip, discuss common pitfalls, and explain how Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles can help you with personalized skateboard and surf lessons.
Understanding the Backside 180 Heelflip
What is a Backside 180 Heelflip?
The backside 180 heelflip is a trick that involves two main components:
Backside 180: This involves a 180-degree turn with your body and board in the backside direction (turning away from your front side).
Heelflip: The board flips with the motion of your heel, spinning along its length.
Why Learn the Backside 180 Heelflip?
Learning the backside 180 heelflip can elevate your skateboarding skills to new heights. This trick combines two fundamental skills—a backside 180 and a heelflip—allowing you to demonstrate a blend of control, timing, and style. Not only is it an impressive addition to your trick repertoire, but it's also a gateway to more advanced combinations.
Prerequisites: Building Your Foundation
Before attempting a backside 180 heelflip, it's important to be comfortable with the following tricks:
Ollie: Essential for getting off the ground.
Backside 180: Familiarizes you with the rotational aspect.
Heelflip: Teaches you how to flip the board with your heel.
Frontside 180: Helps with understanding body rotation while flipping.
These foundational tricks will give you the skills and confidence needed to tackle the backside 180 heelflip.
Preparing Your Skateboard Setup
Having the right skateboard setup can significantly impact your ability to perform a backside 180 heelflip. 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 backside 180 heelflip. Here’s how to set up for the trick:
Foot Placement
Front Foot: Place your front foot with your toes slightly hanging off the edge, angled diagonally towards the nose. This position will help you flick the board effectively.
Back Foot: Position your back foot on the tail, with your toes near the edge for control during the spin.
Body Position
Shoulders: Align your shoulders with the board, preparing to rotate in the backside direction.
Knees: Bend your knees to prepare for the pop and spin.
Head: Look straight ahead and stay focused on the nose of the board.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Backside 180 Heelflip
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 the Ollie
Pop the Tail: Use your back foot to pop the tail of the board down firmly. This action will initiate the board’s upward motion.
Step 3: Execute the Heelflip
Flick with Your Front Foot: As the board begins to rise, use your front foot to flick the edge of the board with your heel. This flick will initiate the heelflip.
Step 4: Rotate Your Body
Begin the 180 Rotation: As you flick the board, start rotating your body 180 degrees in the backside direction. Use your shoulders to lead the rotation.
Step 5: Catch the Board
Spot the Board: Keep your eyes on the board as it spins beneath you.
Catch with Your Back Foot: As the board completes its spin and flip, aim to catch it with your back foot to stabilize it before landing.
Step 6: 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 backside 180 heelflip!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Learning the backside 180 heelflip can be challenging, and skaters often encounter similar issues. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
Problem 1: Incomplete Flip
Solution: Focus on your flick technique. Ensure you’re using enough force with your front foot to complete the heelflip. Practice the flick motion separately if needed.
Problem 2: Losing Control of the Board
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 Completing the Body Rotation
Solution: Practice the backside 180 separately to build confidence in the rotational aspect. Use your shoulders to initiate and complete the rotation.
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 & Surf School Can Help
Mastering a trick like the backside 180 heelflip requires guidance, practice, and dedication. Coyote Skate & Surf 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 & Surf School?
Experienced Instructors: Our team of experienced instructors is 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 & Surf 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 backside 180 heelflip consistency and confidence, incorporate these practice drills into your routine:
Heelflip Practice
Work on your heelflip technique by practicing heelflips on flat ground. Focus on flicking the board with your heel and landing smoothly.
Backside 180 Drills
Perform backside 180s to build confidence in the rotational aspect of the trick. Pay attention to your shoulder and hip alignment during the spin.
Pop and Balance Exercises
Work on your pop and balance by performing ollies and nollies on flat ground. Focus on maintaining a consistent pop and landing smoothly with both feet over the bolts.
Embrace the Journey
Learning the backside 180 heelflip 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 & Surf School, you'll be well on your way to mastering the backside 180 heelflip 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.
Coyote Skate & Surf School: Your Go-To for Skateboarding and Surfing
Coyote Skate & Surf School offers not only skateboarding lessons but also expert surfing lessons. If you're looking to experience the thrill of catching waves, our surfing instructors are here to help you learn the ropes and ride the waves with confidence.
Why Choose Coyote for Surfing?
Professional Surf Instructors: Our surfing instructors have years of experience and a passion for teaching. They provide personalized instruction to help you learn quickly and safely.
Perfect Locations: With access to some of the best surfing spots in Los Angeles, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica, you'll have the opportunity to surf in iconic locations.
All Skill Levels Welcome: Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced surfer looking to improve your skills, our surf lessons are tailored to your needs.
Focus on Safety: We prioritize safety and teach you the fundamentals of surfing, including paddling, wave selection, and proper technique.
Fun and Supportive Environment: Our goal is to make learning to surf a fun and enjoyable experience, fostering a supportive community of surfers.
Benefits of Professional Surf Lessons
Rapid Progress: With expert guidance, you'll learn the basics of surfing more quickly and build a strong foundation for advanced techniques.
Boosted Confidence: As you master new skills and catch your first waves, your confidence in the water will grow.
Safety Awareness: Our instructors teach essential safety tips and techniques to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable surfing experience.
Whether you're looking to learn skateboarding tricks like the backside 180 heelflip or catch waves at Venice Beach, Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles is your go-to destination for expert lessons and personalized coaching. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and make the most of your skateboarding and surfing experiences. Sign up for lessons today and start your journey to becoming a skilled skater and surfer!
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