Double Flip Skate Trick: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hey guys! Ever watched a skater nail a sick double flip and wondered how they did it? Well, you're in the right place. This guide breaks down the double flip, making it easier for you to learn. Whether you're just starting out or already have some tricks under your belt, mastering the double flip is a great way to level up your skating game. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Double Flip

Before we jump into the steps, let's talk about what a double flip actually is. Simply put, it's an ollie combined with two rotations of the board along its horizontal axis. This trick takes timing, coordination, and a solid understanding of basic skateboarding maneuvers. Think of it as taking everything you know about kickflips and turning it up a notch – or, in this case, two notches!

Prerequisites

Before you even think about attempting a double flip, you need to have a few tricks dialed in. I'm talking about a consistent ollie, a reliable kickflip, and a decent pop shove-it. These tricks form the foundation for more advanced maneuvers like the double flip. If you're shaky on any of these, spend some time practicing them. Trust me, it'll make learning the double flip way easier. A good ollie gives you the height you need, a solid kickflip teaches you the flick motion, and the pop shove-it helps with board control. Get comfortable with these basics, and you'll be setting yourself up for success.

Setting Up Your Stance

Your stance is super important for any trick, and the double flip is no exception. You'll want your feet in a similar position to a kickflip, but maybe a little bit further back. Your front foot should be angled slightly towards the nose of the board, and your back foot should be in the pocket of the tail. Experiment with different positions to find what feels most comfortable for you. Everyone's different, so what works for one person might not work for another. The key is to find a stance that allows you to get a good pop and a clean flick. Play around with it until you find that sweet spot where you feel in control and ready to launch.

Step-by-Step Guide to Landing a Double Flip

Okay, now for the fun part! Here’s a breakdown of how to get those double flips dialed in. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't get discouraged if you don't land it right away. Keep at it, and you'll get there!

Step 1: The Ollie

Just like with almost any other trick, the double flip starts with a solid ollie. Get a good bend in your knees, pop the tail hard, and slide your front foot up the board. Focus on getting as much height as possible. The higher you ollie, the more time you have to complete the rotations. A good ollie is the foundation of the entire trick, so make sure you're comfortable and consistent with it. Practice your ollies until they're second nature. The better your ollie, the better your chances of landing a clean double flip.

Step 2: The Flick

This is where the magic happens. As you reach the peak of your ollie, flick your front foot out and forward, just like you would for a kickflip, but with a bit more force. The key is to flick early and with enough power to get the board rotating twice. Don't be afraid to really commit to the flick. It's what makes the double flip a double flip. Experiment with the angle and intensity of your flick to find what works best for you. Some people prefer a more aggressive flick, while others prefer a more subtle one. Find your style and own it.

Step 3: The Catch

Once the board has rotated twice, it's time to catch it. Keep your eyes on the board and try to land with your feet over the bolts. This will help prevent the board from slipping out from under you. Bend your knees as you land to absorb the impact. A soft landing is key to riding away clean. Don't try to stomp the landing; instead, focus on gently guiding your feet onto the board. This will give you more control and stability.

Step 4: Ride Away

After you've caught the board and absorbed the impact, ride away smoothly. Keep your balance centered and your knees bent. Look ahead and focus on where you want to go. A smooth ride away is the perfect ending to a sick double flip. Practice riding away from your double flips until it becomes second nature. The more comfortable you are riding away, the more confident you'll be in attempting the trick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best skaters mess up sometimes, especially when learning new tricks. Here are a few common mistakes to watch out for when learning the double flip:

• Not ollieing high enough: You need height to give the board time to rotate twice.
• Not flicking hard enough: The flick is what gets the board spinning, so don't be shy.
• Leaning back: This will cause the board to flip behind you.
• Not committing: You have to fully commit to the trick to land it. Hesitation will only lead to frustration.
• Landing primo: Landing with the board sideways is a painful mistake. Focus on keeping your feet over the bolts.

Tips and Tricks for Mastering the Double Flip

Alright, let's get into some pro tips that can help you nail those double flips. These are the kinds of things that can make a big difference in your progress.

Visualize the Trick

Before you even step on your board, take a moment to visualize yourself landing the double flip. Imagine every step, from the ollie to the flick to the catch. This mental rehearsal can help you build confidence and improve your muscle memory. Close your eyes and see yourself stomping that trick. The more vividly you can imagine it, the more likely you are to succeed.

Practice Over Obstacles

Once you're comfortable with the double flip on flat ground, try taking it over small obstacles. This will help you improve your timing and coordination. Start with something small, like a crack in the pavement, and gradually work your way up to bigger obstacles. This will also help you get used to landing with more speed and momentum.

Use a Trampoline Board

If you're having trouble with the rotation, try practicing the flick on a trampoline board. This will allow you to focus on the motion without having to worry about landing. You can also use a trampoline board to work on your balance and coordination. It's a great way to build confidence and get a feel for the trick before taking it to the streets.

Film Yourself

Filming yourself can be a great way to identify areas for improvement. Watch your videos closely and pay attention to your stance, your ollie, your flick, and your landing. You might be surprised at what you notice. Sometimes, seeing yourself on video can help you spot mistakes that you wouldn't otherwise catch.

The Mental Game

Learning a trick like the double flip isn't just about the physical skills; it's also about the mental game. You need to be patient, persistent, and confident. Don't get discouraged if you don't land it right away. Just keep practicing, and eventually, you'll get there. Believe in yourself, and don't let fear hold you back. The mental game is just as important as the physical skills. Stay positive, stay focused, and keep pushing yourself.

Overcoming Fear

Fear is a natural part of learning new tricks. It's important to acknowledge your fear and find ways to overcome it. Start by breaking the trick down into smaller steps. Focus on mastering each step before moving on to the next. This will help you build confidence and reduce your fear. You can also try practicing with a friend who can help spot you and encourage you. Remember, everyone feels fear, but it's how you deal with it that matters.

Staying Positive

It's easy to get discouraged when you're learning a new trick, but it's important to stay positive. Celebrate your small victories and don't dwell on your mistakes. Learn from your mistakes and use them as motivation to keep improving. Surround yourself with supportive friends who will encourage you and help you stay positive. A positive attitude can make all the difference in your progress.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a complete guide to learning the double flip. It might seem daunting at first, but with practice and persistence, you can definitely nail this trick. Remember to start with the basics, break the trick down into smaller steps, and stay positive. And most importantly, have fun! Skateboarding is all about pushing yourself and having a good time. Now get out there and start flipping!