One move that’s been turning heads at every skate park is the big flip. It’s crazy, it’s exhilarating, and it’s your next challenge.
What is a big flip?
In skateboarding, a “bigflip” combines two tricks: the big spin and the kickflip.
- Bigspin: This is a trick where the skateboard rotates 360 degrees on its horizontal (or near-horizontal) axis beneath the skateboarder. This rotation is similar to a shuvit but completes a full circle.
- Kickflip: A fundamental trick where the skateboard flips once around its long axis, spinning laterally (from nose to tail or vice versa).
So, when performing a bigflip, the skateboarder makes the board do a kickflip while simultaneously making it complete a 360-degree spin on its horizontal axis. The rider jumps during this motion and then lands back on the board after both the flip and the spin are completed.
It’s a more advanced trick and requires a good deal of practice to master, as it demands coordination to achieve both the spin and the flip simultaneously.
Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings
- High-speed
- Pre-lubricated
- Inexpensive
I may earn a commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
How to do a big flip
u003cstrongu003eHere are some steps to performing a big flip.u003c/strongu003e
Get the basics right
Before attempting to perform a Bigflip, ensure you’re confident with basic tricks like the 360 shove and kickflip. When you’re secure with these moves, you’re halfway to getting your big flip game on point. Start by rehearsing the movements for these tricks separately until you feel comfortable combining them.
Understand the sequence
A Bigflip is basically a blend of a 360 shove and a kickflip, with your body spinning a 180 in the same direction as the board. It’s not exactly rocket science, but yes, it’s pretty much skateboarding lingo. The board spins entirely, completing a 360, while your body only turns a half circle (or 180). It’s like an eccentric dance duo, except you’re alone and on a skateboard.
Practice the timing
Getting the timing right is essential for executing the perfect big flip. You need to synchronize your body and board rotations so they finish simultaneously. Too long in the air, and you spin out of control. Too short, and you won’t complete the spins. It perfectly balances time and motion, like a smooth dance move.
Execute the big flip
Remember to take it one step at a time. Start spinning the board using the technique from the 360-degree shove. While the board is spinning, start turning your body the opposite way. Just when the board completes its half spin (180 degrees), perform the kickflip and start spinning your body back with the board. Voila! You just did a big flip!
Practice…then practice some more
Endless practice is crucial to nailing this trick. Aim to refine your movements, timing, and control with every attempt. Just like in any fine art or sport, consistency is key. The more you practice, the closer you get to perfecting the big flip.
Free Download: My 20 Essential Skateboard Tricks PDF
Sign up to receive my 20 Flatground Tricks Checklist—a systematic approach to tracking and landing flatground tricks.
Tips for achieving big flip nirvana
Achieving “nirvana” with the big flip in skateboarding—or mastering any complex trick, really—requires a mix of technical knowledge, consistent practice, mental conditioning, and a few secrets from seasoned skateboarders. Here are some tips to help you on your journey to big flip mastery:
- Before attempting the big flip, ensure you’re proficient with its components: the big spin and the kickflip.
- Foot Placement:
- Front foot: Position it like you would for a kickflip, a little behind the bolts.
- Back foot: Place it on the tail like a shuvit; this will help you get the full 360-degree spin.
- Practice the motions of the big flip without actually trying to land on the board. This helps you understand the movement required.
- Before attempting the trick, take a moment to visualize yourself successfully performing it. This mental imagery can be a powerful tool.
- Keep your weight centered over the board. This ensures you’re in the best position to catch the board and land the trick.
- Wear protective gear, especially when first attempting the big flip or practicing on hard surfaces.
- If possible, record videos of your attempts. This allows you to analyze your technique, spot mistakes, and make necessary adjustments.
- Progress can sometimes be slow, and it’s easy to get frustrated. Remember to stay positive, be patient with yourself, and celebrate small victories.
- Engage with the skateboarding community. Seek advice from more experienced skateboarders, or even consider skateboarding lessons if they are available in your area.
- Keeping your body in good shape can aid in balance, flexibility, and strength for skateboarding tricks. Consider exercises that focus on core strength and leg power.
- Before and after your sessions, ensure you stretch well. Flexibility can prevent injuries and improve overall trick performance.
Here are some dos and don’ts to consider while practicing:
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Practice the sequence repeatedly | Overtire yourself |
| Visualize the process | Rush through the learning phase |
| Use appropriate protective gear | Neglect any discomfort or pain |
| Take breaks between practices. | Give up easily |
Like everything we’ve talked about so far, drill into your mind that patience is key. Mastery doesn’t happen overnight, nor does the big flip. It’s okay to slam hard on the concrete; it’s okay to sail away from the board. Remember that the struggles will always be worth it.
Just keep the spirit high, keep shredding, and keep saying, “One more try, I’ll nail this,” until you do. Being a skateboarder isn’t just about the tricks; it’s about how you get up after a fall, all the while smiling and saying, “That one was a killer; let me try again!”. Our journey in the art of skateboarding is like a madly spinning wheel on a bumpy street, full of energy and unpredictable—it never ends; it just keeps rolling.
“Just keep the spirit high, keep shredding, and keep saying, “One more try, I’ll nail this,” until you do.”
Life lessons from skateboarding, huh? It’s kind of nuts how a street sport can unravel the bigger picture of life, right? But skateboarding isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle, an art, and a vehicle for self-expression.
Ever wondered how to choose a good skateboard when you’re just starting with skateboarding? We’ve got you covered. Stroll around the website for more kickass content, and join the crazy, fun ride that skateboarding is!
Skateboarding tricks: Complexity matrix
Below is a table giving you an overview of some skateboarding tricks, their complexity, and the required skills to perform them. The complexity is measured on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the easiest and 10 being the most difficult.
| Trick | Complexity (1-10) | Required Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Bigflip | 9 | 360 shove it, kickflip, body 180 |
| 540 Flip | 10 | 360-degree spin, another 180, body balance, coordination |
| Laser Flip | 10 | Aerial spin, great balance, and speed |
| Royal Flip | 8 | Kickflip, 180 body varial |
| Dragon Flip | 10 | 360 Kickflip, Front Foot Impossible |
| Gazelle Flip | 9 | 360-degree body rotation, 540-degree board flip |
| 900 Trick | 10 | Aerial spin, great balance and speed |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As you carve your path into the exciting world of advanced skateboarding tricks and maneuvers, you’re likely to unlock a wealth of questions. Here are some common queries that budding skateboarders often find boggling their minds.
Is the big flip a good trick for competitions?
Absolutely! The big flip is a jaw-dropping spectacle when executed perfectly and can score you some serious points in competitions. It demonstrates one’s advanced skateboarding proficiency, command over intricate moves, and ability to maintain stability amidst complex motions. The big flip essentially screams, “I know what I’m doing, and I’m damn good at it!”
How can I prevent injuries while practicing the big flip?
Skateboarding, especially tricks like the big flip, can indeed lead to injuries if not done properly. To minimize the risk, always ensure you’ve got the right protective gear on. This includes a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards. Also, learning the right ways to fall can significantly lessen the likelihood of severe injuries.
What’s the best board for performing a big flip?
The best board for you would depend on your comfort, balance, and style. However, a balanced, medium-sized board is often the most suitable for complex tricks like the big flip. It’s always recommended to go for a skateboard that complements your body type and skating style and, most importantly, feels like a natural extension of your body.
Can you provide more information about the psychology behind skateboarding?
Skateboarding is a lot more than just a sport; it’s a mindset, an attitude, and even a lifestyle! The psychology of skateboarding is quite fascinating and can provide a deeper insight into this beloved street sport and its far-reaching influence on personal development, creativity, and the knack for pushing limits.
Keep stoked, Shredder, and remember: falling isn’t failing; it’s a stepping stone to that epic ride that’s awaiting you!
Final thoughts
If mastering the big flip were a movie, we’d have nailed the blockbuster script! It’s been a wild ride through the ins and outs of conquering the Bigflip, one of skateboarding’s most insane tricks. Now, it’s up to you to be the star performer and roll out the craziest moves on your deck! Remember, every skater has a tale to tell, but you’re writing an epic saga with each flip and spin.
Let me know your questions in the comments section below (I read and reply to every comment). If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on mastering the world of skateboarding. From a beginner’s guide to advanced tricks, I’ve got it all covered! Thanks for reading, and keep grinding!
Key takeaways
This article covered the process of mastering the Bigflip, a high-level skateboarding trick. Here are some key takeaways:
- The Bigflip combines a 360-degree shove and a kickflip with a body spin of 180 degrees.
- Achieving the big flip requires practicing the movements of the fundamental tricks separately till you can merge them smoothly.
- Timing synchronization between body and board rotations is crucial.
- The article explains the complexity and skills required for various advanced skateboarding tricks.
- Focused and regular practice and understanding your unique board preferences can enhance execution efficiency.
- Proper protective gear and learning to fall correctly can help prevent serious injuries.
EN 
ES 
FR 
DE 
IT