Are you a budding skateboarder eager to add some style to your repertoire? Look no further than the Ollie—the fundamental trick that opens the door to a world of skateboarding possibilities. Here at TheSkateShack.co.za, we’ve got your back with this step-by-step guide on how to ollie like a pro.
Step 1: Get the Right Gear
Before you start practicing your Ollie, ensure your skateboard is in good condition. Tighten any loose bolts, and make sure your wheels spin freely. Wearing safety gear, including a helmet, knee pads, and wrist guards, is crucial, especially for beginners.
Step 2: Find the Perfect Spot
Choose a smooth and level surface to practice your Ollie. A parking lot or an empty basketball court are ideal places to start. Avoid busy streets or crowded areas to minimize distractions and hazards.
Step 3: Stance Matters
Stand on your skateboard with your feet parallel, about shoulder-width apart. Your front foot should be across the skateboard, with your toes hanging slightly over the edge. The ball of your back foot should be positioned on the tail of the skateboard, ready to provide the pop.
Step 4: The Pre-Ollie Position
Bend your knees slightly to get into a crouched position. This will help you generate the power you need to execute the Ollie. Keep your weight centered over the skateboard for balance.
Step 5: The Pop
Now, it’s time for the magic moment. Use the ball of your back foot to smack the tail of your skateboard down onto the ground while simultaneously sliding your front foot up toward the nose. This action should create a snapping sound. The harder you pop, the higher your Ollie will go.
Step 6: The Slide
As you pop the tail and slide your front foot up, drag it gently against the grip tape. This sliding motion is what levels out the board in the air. Keep your shoulders parallel to the board for balance.
Step 7: The Lift
Once the board is level and your feet are over the bolts, bring your knees up toward your chest. This will lift the skateboard off the ground. The higher you bring your knees, the higher your Ollie will be.
Step 8: The Catch
With your knees up, start preparing for the landing. Keep your eyes on the grip tape and get ready to catch the board with your feet.
Step 9: The Landing
As you start descending, guide the skateboard back to the ground by extending your legs. Aim to land with your knees slightly bent to absorb the impact. Distribute your weight evenly on both feet to maintain balance.
Step 10: Roll Away Smoothly
Once you’ve landed successfully, roll away smoothly, and maintain your balance. Practice makes perfect, so repeat these steps until you can Ollie with confidence.
Pro Tips:
- Start small and gradually increase your Ollie height as you gain confidence.
- Film yourself to analyze your technique and identify areas for improvement.
- Be patient! Ollies can be challenging to master, but persistence pays off.
Remember, mastering the Ollie takes time and practice, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t nail it on your first try. Keep pushing yourself, and soon enough, you’ll be adding this essential trick to your skateboarding arsenal. Happy shredding!