The skateboard ollie is the fundamental trick that allows you to lift the board into the air without using your hands. It involves a combination of popping the tail and sliding your front foot up the board while jumping.
Understanding the Ollie
The ollie is essentially an aerial jump performed with the skateboard. Mastering it opens the door to countless other tricks, such as riding over obstacles or performing flips. It requires coordination, timing, and practice.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Ollie
Performing an ollie can be broken down into a few key movements:
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Stance and Preparation:
- Place your back foot on the tail of the board.
- Place your front foot roughly in the middle of the board, or slightly behind the front bolts.
- Bend your knees in a comfortable athletic stance.
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The Pop:
- Push down firmly on the tail of the board with your back foot, causing the nose to lift off the ground.
- Immediately after the tail hits the ground, lift your back foot up.
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The Slide/Roll:
- Simultaneously with the pop and while you are jumping up, you need to roll your front foot up to the nose of the board. This action levels the board in the air and brings it with you as you jump. As the reference states, "Up. And at the same time while you're jumping in order to pick the board off the ground you need to roll your foot. Up to the nose of the board." This rolling/sliding motion is what guides the board upwards and levels it out mid-air.
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Leveling and Landing:
- As you reach the peak of your jump and your front foot slides up the nose, try to level the board out in the air by bringing your back foot up.
- Bend your knees again to absorb the impact as you land, aiming to land with your feet over the bolts.
Key Ollie Movements
An ollie relies on these coordinated actions:
| Action | Foot | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Pop | Back Foot (Tail) | Lifts the nose off the ground |
| Slide/Roll | Front Foot | Levels the board and brings it up mid-air |
| Jump | Both Legs | Provides the height for the trick |
| Landing | Both Feet | Controls the board and absorbs impact |
Tips for Learning
- Practice the Pop: Get comfortable quickly pushing the tail down and lifting your back foot.
- Practice the Slide: Off the board, mimic the motion of sliding your foot up an imaginary board.
- Combine Slowly: Start by practicing the pop and slide without trying to get much height. Focus on the coordination.
- Stay Centered: Try to keep your weight balanced over the board throughout the process.
- Commit: Hesitation is a common obstacle. Trust the process and commit to the jump and slide.
- Find a Smooth Surface: Practice on a flat, smooth surface like concrete or asphalt initially.
- Watch and Learn: Observing others or instructional videos (like the referenced material) can help visualize the movements.
Mastering the ollie takes time and persistence. Focus on understanding each step and practicing regularly.
