Hardflip
Many new to skateboarding want to learn how to do a hardflip, as it is one of the most popular skateboard tricks today. Assuming you have some experience using the skateboard, the following step by step instructions should help you learn the basic techniques.
What You Will Do
Basically what you’re going to do is flip the board through your legs. You will make a half rotation and backflip at the same time. Veteran skateboarders will realize the motion is similar to frontside flips.
Step 1
Get on the skateboard. Set your feet at a forward stance and roll at slow to medium speed.
Step 2
Begin the hardflip by jamming the back kick as you drag the front foot up. As the front foot goes up the deck, drag it to one side. This is similar to what you do in a kickflip.
Step 3
Now open your legs so the board can flip through it. Do this without rotating the body as you would in a 180 degree frontside flip. Your foot should circle so it doesn’t get in the way of the board’s tail.
The trick can be done with the back or front foot. For beginners it is best to do it with the front foot. The reason is you can see the board better. It also keeps you from hitting the tail. As the board finishes with the vertical part, stomp on it.
Precise Movements
When you do the hardflip, make sure you pop the tail hard. This is necessary so it goes into a backflip. As the board makes the backflip and half twist, ensure the feet are foisting these movements.
As you drag your foot to the board, the movement to the side must be gentle. Don’t try to flip like you would in a kickflip. You just want it to turn halfway through.
Mastering the Ollie
Before you can master complex skateboard tricks, you must learn how to do the ollie. The ollie is the foundation for the hardflip and the other tricks. The ollie is done by putting the right foot on the back of the skateboard.
The left foot is set on the board’s center. Now slam the back foot and raise the front foot a bit. The end result is the board is airborne.
Slide the front foot forward. This should level the board as it’s in the air. With all tracks off the surface, try to land with your feet on the board.
Skateboarding Safety Tips
Always wear protective gear when you attempt these tricks. Whatever your level of experience, you should always don a helmet, pads and other safety gear.
For beginners, the trick should be performed on flat surfaces. When you gain experience, you can try it on obstacle courses or different kinds of ramps. The key to improving of course, is practice.
To master the hardflip, you must move at the right pace and your feet properly set. With enough practice, this trick will become second nature to you.