Venice Beach skateboarding coach Coyote Rob shows us how to back lip in today's online skateboard lesson!
If you've ever watched a skateboarder glide effortlessly along a rail or ledge, chances are you've seen a backside lip slide in action. This trick is a staple in the skateboarding world, combining style, precision, and just the right amount of swagger. Whether you're a newbie eager to add some flair to your tricks or a seasoned skater looking to refine your skills, learning the backside lip slide is a thrilling adventure. And if you’re in Los Angeles, you’re in luck! Coyote Skate & Surf School is here to help you nail that slide while also offering top-notch skateboarding and surf lessons.
What’s a Backside Lip Slide?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s break down what a backside lip slide is. Essentially, a backside lip slide involves sliding along a rail or ledge with the skateboard’s front side facing outward while your body rotates 90 degrees from the approach. It’s like the skateboard is giving the rail a high-five, but with the side of the board instead of the palm.
The Components of a Backside Lip Slide
Backside Approach: Approaching the rail or ledge from behind, with your body facing away from it.
Lip Slide: Sliding the skateboard along the rail or ledge with the front trucks locked while the back of the board is slightly angled.
Body Rotation: Your body should be rotated 90 degrees, keeping your balance and maintaining control as you slide.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before Attempting the Backside Lip Slide
Before you slide into this trick, make sure you’re comfortable with a few foundational skills. Think of these as your skateboarding warm-up routine.
Essential Tricks
Ollie: The basic pop and lift-off maneuver that’s crucial for getting onto the rail or ledge.
50-50 Grind: Getting comfortable with grinding on rails or ledges will help you understand the feeling of sliding.
Frontside 180: Familiarity with frontside spins will aid in your body rotation for the lip slide.
If you’ve mastered these tricks, you’re already halfway to mastering the backside lip slide!
Preparing Your Skateboard Setup
Having the right setup is like having the perfect outfit for a big night out—essential for looking and feeling your best. Here’s how to prep your board:
Deck Size: Opt for a deck that provides enough stability but isn’t too bulky. A width around 7.75" to 8.25" is usually ideal.
Grip Tape: Fresh grip tape ensures your feet stay firmly planted. Think of it as the ultimate traction for your feet.
Trucks: Adjust your trucks to a snug fit that allows for smooth slides. Too tight, and you'll struggle; too loose, and you’ll wobble like a duck on roller skates.
Wheels: Medium-sized wheels (50mm to 54mm) are perfect for street skating and grinding. Bigger wheels might make you feel like a tank, while smaller ones might leave you feeling like you’re skating on marbles.
Foot Placement and Body Position
Foot placement and body position are key to executing a clean backside lip slide. Here’s how to set up:
Foot Placement
Front Foot: Place your front foot near the middle of the board, angled slightly towards the rail or ledge. This positioning will help you lock in the slide.
Back Foot: Position your back foot on the tail with your toes hanging slightly off the edge. This helps with pop and control.
Body Position
Shoulders: Keep your shoulders aligned with the rail or ledge, facing away from it.
Knees: Bend your knees to prepare for the pop and slide.
Head: Keep your head up and your eyes focused on the rail or ledge to maintain balance.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Backside Lip Slide
Step 1: Setup and Approach
Start by riding towards the rail or ledge at a comfortable speed. Make sure you’re aligned correctly and in control. This is your chance to psych yourself up and think of the rail or ledge as your new best friend.
Step 2: Execute the Ollie
Pop the Board: Use your back foot to pop the board off the ground. This action will lift the board towards the rail or ledge.
Aim for the Rail: As you pop, aim to get the front trucks of the skateboard over the rail or ledge. Your front foot should help in guiding the board onto the rail.
Step 3: Lock in the Slide
Slide into Position: As the board makes contact with the rail or ledge, make sure the front trucks lock in. Your back foot should be angled slightly to keep the board in place.
Maintain Balance: Keep your body centered and balanced. Engage your core muscles to prevent wobbling.
Step 4: Finish the Slide
Prepare to Exit: As you near the end of the rail or ledge, prepare to exit the slide. Shift your weight slightly to prepare for the dismount.
Land Smoothly: Once you’ve exited the slide, land with both feet over the bolts. Bend your knees to absorb the impact and roll away smoothly.
Step 5: Roll Away with Style
Celebrate: Give yourself a high-five, a nod, or an air guitar solo. You’ve just nailed a backside lip slide!
Check Your Setup: Inspect your skateboard for any damage. A well-maintained board is crucial for your next session.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Let’s face it—skateboarding is all about overcoming challenges. Here are some common issues skaters face when learning the backside lip slide and how to fix them:
Problem 1: The Board Slips Off
Solution: Ensure your front foot is properly positioned and that you’re applying enough pressure to lock in the slide. Practice your balance and body positioning to keep the board steady.
Problem 2: Wobbly Slide
Solution: Focus on keeping your body centered and your shoulders aligned with the rail. Engaging your core and maintaining a steady balance will help with a smoother slide.
Problem 3: Hitting the Rail Wrong
Solution: Adjust your approach and make sure you’re popping the board at the right angle. Practice your ollie to improve the height and accuracy of your approach.
Problem 4: Landing Too Hard
Solution: Work on bending your knees to absorb the impact. Proper technique and timing will help you land smoothly and roll away with style.
How Coyote Skate & Surf School Can Help
Learning a trick like the backside lip slide requires practice, guidance, and a bit of grit. Coyote Skate & Surf School in Los Angeles is here to help you every step of the way with expert skateboard lessons and surf coaching. Here’s how we can help you perfect your backside lip slide and more:
Why Choose Coyote Skate & Surf School?
Expert Instructors: Our experienced instructors are passionate about skateboarding and surfing. They’re dedicated to helping you achieve your goals with personalized feedback and guidance.
Tailored Lessons: We offer skateboard lessons and surf lessons tailored to your skill level and interests. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your techniques, we’ve got you covered.
Supportive Environment: At Coyote Skate & Surf School, we foster a fun and supportive environment where you can learn, progress, and enjoy yourself. Our community is all about encouragement and improvement.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum includes everything from basic tricks to advanced maneuvers. We provide structured lessons and practice sessions to help you master new skills efficiently.
Convenient Locations: With locations throughout Los Angeles, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica, we offer diverse environments for both skateboarding and surfing experiences.
Benefits of Professional Skateboarding and Surf Lessons
Accelerated Learning: Our expert instructors can help you learn tricks more quickly and efficiently. Get personalized feedback and tips to speed up your progress.
Improved Technique: We focus on refining your technique and helping you overcome common mistakes. Personalized lessons ensure that you’re working on the right skills.
Increased Confidence: As you master new tricks and improve your skills, your confidence on the board or in the water will grow. Enjoy a safe and encouraging environment to push your limits.
Safety and Injury Prevention: We emphasize safety and teach proper techniques to minimize the risk of injury. Learn how to use protective gear and practice smart skateboarding and surfing habits.
Practice Drills and Exercises
To improve your backside lip slide consistency and confidence, incorporate these practice drills into your routine:
Ollie Practice
Work on your ollies to improve your ability to pop the board and approach the rail or ledge effectively. Focus on height and accuracy.
50-50 Grind Drills
Practice 50-50 grinds to get comfortable with grinding on rails or ledges. This will help you understand the feeling of sliding.
Balance Exercises
Work on your balance and core strength to maintain stability during the slide. Try balance boards or exercises to enhance your control.
Rail or Ledge Practice
Find a low rail or ledge to practice your backside lip slides. Start with shorter slides and gradually increase the length as you gain confidence.
Embrace the Journey
Learning the backside lip slide is a challenging yet rewarding journey. Embrace the process, celebrate your progress, and enjoy every moment on the board. Whether you’re in Los Angeles, Venice Beach, or Santa Monica, skateboarding offers endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression.
With the guidance of Coyote Skate & Surf School, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the backside lip slide and expanding your skateboarding skills. Keep pushing your limits, exploring new tricks, and enjoying the incredible world of skateboarding and surfing.
So grab your skateboard, channel your inner pro, and get ready to slide into style with confidence and flair. And remember, every slide brings you closer to becoming the skater you’ve always dreamed of being. Happy skating!
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