Skateboarding is more than just a sport; it’s an art form, a culture, and a thrilling way to express yourself. Among the myriad of tricks that skateboarders aspire to master, the varial kickflip stands out as a classic move that combines the complexity of a kickflip with the elegance of a pop shove-it. Whether you’re a seasoned skater looking to expand your trick repertoire or a beginner eager to conquer new challenges, mastering the varial kickflip is an achievable goal with the right guidance and practice. In this article, we’ll break down the essential steps, techniques, and tips to help you land this impressive trick with confidence. So grab your board, gear up, and get ready to elevate your skateboarding skills to new heights!
Perfecting Your Stance and Setup for Success
Before you can execute a flawless varial kickflip, it’s essential to hone your stance and setup. This foundational step is what sets the stage for success. Begin by ensuring your front foot is positioned just behind the front bolts, angled slightly forward. This will allow for optimal flicking motion. Your back foot should rest comfortably on the tail, with the toes hanging off slightly to ensure a strong pop.
- Foot Placement: Your front foot should be in a kickflip position, ready to flick, while your back foot is poised for a solid scoop.
- Balance and Posture: Maintain a centered balance over the board, keeping your shoulders parallel to it. This will help you stay aligned during the trick.
- Mindset: Approach the trick with confidence and focus. Visualize the movement and commit to the flick and scoop.
Mastering your stance and setup not only increases your chances of landing the trick but also builds the confidence you need to progress in skateboarding. Remember, practice makes perfect, so take your time to get comfortable with your setup before attempting the varial kickflip.
Understanding the Mechanics of the Varial Kickflip
At its core, the varial kickflip is a harmonious blend of two fundamental tricks: the pop shove-it and the kickflip. To execute it effectively, understanding the intricate mechanics of each component is crucial. Start by mastering the pop shove-it, which involves the back foot scooping the tail of the board to create a 180-degree rotation. Simultaneously, the front foot performs the kickflip motion, flicking the edge of the board to initiate a flip. These movements must be synchronized to achieve a smooth, fluid motion.
- Stance: Position your front foot slightly angled near the middle of the board, and your back foot on the tail with toes hanging off the edge.
- Timing: As you pop the board with your back foot, begin flicking with your front foot. The flick should be quick and precise.
- Focus: Keep your eyes on the board as it spins and flips, preparing to catch it with your front foot.
- Landing: Aim to land with both feet over the bolts to maintain balance and control upon impact.
Remember, patience and practice are your best allies. Each attempt brings you one step closer to mastering this impressive trick. Stay committed, and soon the varial kickflip will be a proud part of your skateboarding repertoire.
Developing Consistency Through Practice and Patience
Mastering the varial kickflip is not just about landing the trick once, but doing so consistently. This requires a blend of practice and patience. As you embark on this journey, remember that each attempt is a step towards mastery. Start by setting aside dedicated time each week to practice. Consistency is key, so aim for at least three to four sessions per week. During each session, focus on the fundamentals: your foot placement, the flick of your front foot, and the pop of your back foot. Pay attention to what works and what doesn’t, and adjust accordingly.
It’s also essential to embrace patience. Progress may be slow, but every small improvement is a victory. Celebrate these wins to keep your motivation high. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Record your sessions: Use your phone to film your attempts. Watching your form can help you identify areas for improvement.
- Visualize success: Before each attempt, take a moment to visualize yourself executing the perfect varial kickflip. This mental practice can be surprisingly effective.
- Rest and recover: Don’t forget to give your body time to rest. Overworking can lead to fatigue and injuries, which can slow down your progress.
With dedication, your efforts will pay off, and the varial kickflip will become a reliable part of your skateboarding repertoire.
Troubleshooting Common Varial Kickflip Challenges
When tackling the elusive varial kickflip, many skateboarders face a few common challenges that can be overcome with persistence and technique adjustments. Here are some key issues and solutions to help you land this trick with confidence:
- Improper Foot Placement: Make sure your front foot is positioned at a slight angle near the middle of the board, while your back foot is set up in the tail pocket. This alignment is crucial for generating the right flick and spin.
- Insufficient Pop: Focus on popping the tail with enough force. A strong pop will help the board achieve the necessary height and rotation. Practice snapping the tail down sharply and using your back foot to guide the board’s trajectory.
- Inconsistent Flick: Ensure your front foot flicks off the edge of the board in a smooth, controlled motion. This flick should be quick yet deliberate, guiding the board’s flip without over-rotating.
- Lack of Commitment: Trust in your abilities and commit to the trick. Hesitation often leads to incomplete rotations or missed landings. Visualize a successful varial kickflip and maintain focus throughout the motion.
Remember, every skateboarder faces hurdles, but with consistent practice and these adjustments, you’ll soon master the varial kickflip. Keep pushing forward and embrace the journey of improvement!
To Conclude
As you wrap up your journey toward mastering the varial kickflip, remember that persistence and patience are your greatest allies. Each attempt brings you one step closer to landing that perfect trick. Embrace the process, celebrate small victories, and learn from every fall. Skateboarding is as much about the joy of improvement as it is about the thrill of success. Keep pushing your boundaries, stay inspired by the vibrant skateboarding community, and most importantly, have fun on your board. With dedication and practice, you’ll soon find yourself confidently executing the varial kickflip and ready to tackle even more challenging tricks. Keep shredding, and enjoy the ride!
