Mastering the Ollie: The Gateway to Skateboard Tricks
In the world of skateboarding, there is one trick that stands above the rest in terms of popularity and significance—the Ollie. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skateboarder, understanding and mastering the Ollie is essential as it serves as the foundation for numerous other tricks. In this informative blog post, we will delve into the art of the Ollie, exploring its variations, techniques, and historical significance. By the end, you'll have the knowledge and inspiration to conquer this fundamental aerial maneuver.
The Basics of the Ollie: To perform an Ollie, start by assuming your usual riding stance on the skateboard. Although it's easiest to execute the Ollie while already rolling, it is possible to do it while stationary as well.
Begin with your front foot a few inches behind the front hardware of your skateboard, while your back foot rests towards the tip of the tail. Next, crouch down and spring into the air, exerting as much force and achieving maximum height. Simultaneously, forcefully snap the tail of the board against the ground. This action propels the board into the air alongside you.
As the board elevates, your feet will leave the deck. The key to a successful Ollie lies in landing on the board split seconds before your feet reconnect with it. Upon landing, ensure that your legs are slightly bent to absorb the impact, but not as bent as during the initial crouch.
Achieving Balance and Control:
When at the peak of your Ollie, slide your front foot forward along the skateboard's surface. This action levels the front of the board with the back, preparing it for landing. Placing your front foot too far back can disrupt balance while airborne, making the landing challenging. Be prepared for the possibility of missing the landing and falling off the board by wearing appropriate safety gear such as a helmet and pads during Ollie practice.
Progression and Exploration:
Once you have mastered the basic Ollie on flat ground, you can increase the difficulty by attempting it over curbs, benches, or even another skateboard. However, it is crucial to ensure that you have confidently mastered the Ollie itself before progressing to more challenging obstacles. Additionally, you can aim to increase the height of your Ollie, as many skateboard competitions include a "Highest Ollie" component. To achieve greater height, practice snapping the tail harder against the ground—a skill that requires dedicated effort and practice.
The Ollie's Historical Significance:
In the late 1970s, a skateboarder named Alan Gelfand from Florida revolutionized the sport with a groundbreaking trick. Nicknamed "Ollie," he created a maneuver that allowed skaters to launch themselves and their boards into the air. This trick, forever known as the Ollie, quickly became a fundamental aspect of skateboarding, shaping the evolution of the sport. Without the Ollie, skateboarding as we know it today would not exist, and many other awe-inspiring tricks would remain impossible.
The Ollie is not just a trick; it is the gateway to a world of skateboarding possibilities. As you embark on your skateboarding journey, mastering the Ollie is an essential step toward developing your skills and exploring new tricks. Remember to practice proper technique, maintain balance, and gradually push your limits. By mastering the Ollie, you'll gain a solid foundation upon which to build your skateboarding repertoire. Embrace the challenge, celebrate your progress, and enjoy the exhilaration of skateboarding as you unlock new realms of creativity and self-expression.