Mastering Ramp Skate Land Tricks: A How-To Guide

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Skateboarding is an art form that combines balance, skill, and creativity. Among the various skateboarding disciplines, ramp skating stands out for its high-flying maneuvers and technical tricks. One of the most satisfying aspects of ramp skating is landing a trick perfectly. This guide will walk you through some essential land tricks that every ramp skater should master.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into specific tricks, it's crucial to have a solid foundation. Balance, posture, and board control are the building blocks of successful ramp skating. Spend time practicing riding up and down the ramp to get comfortable with the transitions. Learn how to maintain your balance while shifting your weight, as this will be essential for more advanced tricks.

Essential Skills to Master:

  • Basic Balance: Practice balancing on your board while stationary and in motion.
  • Ramp Transitions: Get comfortable riding up and down the ramp smoothly.
  • Weight Distribution: Learn how to shift your weight to control your board effectively.

Beginning Land Tricks

Once you're comfortable with the basics, it's time to start learning some fundamental land tricks. These tricks will help you develop your coordination and confidence on the ramp.

1. The Ollie

The ollie is the cornerstone of almost all skateboarding tricks. It involves popping the board into the air while keeping your feet on it. To perform an ollie on a ramp:

  1. Ride towards the ramp with moderate speed.
  2. As you approach the transition, crouch down and prepare to pop the tail of the board.
  3. Snap the tail down sharply while simultaneously sliding your front foot towards the nose of the board.
  4. Pull your knees up towards your chest to give the board room to rise.
  5. Level out the board in the air and prepare for landing.
  6. Land with your feet over the bolts and bend your knees to absorb the impact.

2. The Pop Shuvit

The pop shuvit involves popping the board and spinning it 180 degrees before landing back on it. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Approach the ramp with a comfortable speed.
  2. Crouch down and place your back foot on the tail of the board.
  3. Pop the tail and scoop it backward to initiate the spin.
  4. As the board spins, jump slightly and allow it to rotate fully.
  5. Catch the board with your feet and land with your knees bent.

Intermediate Land Tricks

After mastering the ollie and pop shuvit, you can move on to more challenging tricks that require greater precision and control.

1. The Kickflip

The kickflip is a visually impressive trick that involves flipping the board 360 degrees along its horizontal axis. Here’s how to execute it:

  1. Ride towards the ramp with a steady pace.
  2. Position your front foot at a slight angle near the front bolts.
  3. Pop the board and slide your front foot up and outwards, creating a flipping motion.
  4. Allow the board to rotate fully, then catch it with your feet.
  5. Land with your knees bent to absorb the impact.

2. The Heelflip

The heelflip is similar to the kickflip, but instead of flipping the board with your toes, you use your heel. Follow these steps:

  1. Approach the ramp confidently.
  2. Place your front foot at an angle with your heel slightly hanging off the edge.
  3. Pop the board and flick your heel outwards to initiate the flip.
  4. Let the board rotate completely before catching it.
  5. Land with your feet over the bolts and bend your knees.

Advanced Land Tricks

For experienced ramp skaters, advanced tricks combine multiple elements and require significant practice and dedication.

1. The 360 Flip

The 360 flip combines a 360 shuvit with a kickflip. This trick requires excellent coordination and timing. Here’s a simplified approach:

  1. Approach the ramp with a good speed.
  2. Pop the board and initiate both a 360 shuvit and a kickflip simultaneously.
  3. Keep your body centered over the board as it spins.
  4. Catch the board and land smoothly.

2. The Varial Kickflip

The varial kickflip combines a pop shuvit with a kickflip. It's a challenging trick that can add flair to your ramp skating.

  1. Ride towards the ramp.
  2. Pop the board and perform a pop shuvit while also initiating a kickflip.
  3. Allow both rotations to complete before catching the board.
  4. Land with bent knees and maintain your balance.

Tips for Success

  • Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your skills.
  • Use Protective Gear: Always wear a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads to prevent injuries.
  • Watch Tutorials: Study videos of experienced skaters to learn new techniques.
  • Start Slow: Don’t rush into advanced tricks before mastering the basics.
  • Stay Positive: Skateboarding can be challenging, so stay patient and persistent.

Conclusion

Mastering land tricks on a ramp takes time and dedication, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By following this guide and practicing consistently, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a proficient ramp skater. Remember to always prioritize safety and have fun while you're at it. Now, grab your board and start practicing these tricks to elevate your skateboarding game!