How to Do a Behind the Back: Mastering a Cool Trick
Embarking on the journey to master a behind the back trick is both exciting and challenging. Whether you are a beginner or an intermediate level skateboarder, learning how to do a behind the back can elevate your skateboarding skills to a whole new level. This article will guide you through the essential steps and tips to successfully execute a behind the back trick.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the technicalities of performing a behind the back, it’s important to understand the basics. A behind the back trick involves maneuvering your skateboard around your back, while maintaining balance and control. This trick requires a combination of skill, timing, and practice. Let’s break down the key components of a successful behind the back.
1. Warm-Up and Flexibility
To begin with, it’s crucial to warm up your muscles and improve flexibility. Perform some light stretches, focusing on your legs, back, and shoulders. Warming up helps prevent injuries and enhances your performance. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body during the warm-up process.
2. Mastering the Ollie
The ollie is a fundamental skateboarding trick that serves as the foundation for the behind the back. To master the ollie, you need to understand the basic principles of pop power, balance, and timing. Practice the ollie on a flat surface, focusing on lifting the skateboard off the ground with your back foot while simultaneously pushing down with your front foot. Once you’ve gained confidence in performing the ollie, you can move on to the next step.
3. Practice the Behind the Back
Now that you’ve mastered the ollie, it’s time to start practicing the behind the back. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
a. Start with a flat surface, such as a skate park or a smooth street.
b. Position your skateboard perpendicular to the ground, with the front wheel facing away from you.
c. Begin the trick by performing a standard ollie, but instead of bringing the skateboard back to your front foot, pull it around your back.
d. As the skateboard swings around your back, maintain your balance and control by looking at the ground and keeping your arms straight.
e. Once the skateboard is behind you, push down with your front foot and pull up with your back foot to land the trick.
4. Tips for Success
To improve your chances of mastering the behind the back, consider the following tips:
a. Practice regularly to build muscle memory and improve your timing.
b. Focus on your form and technique, rather than rushing the trick.
c. Use a smaller skateboard with a softer deck to make it easier to maneuver around your back.
d. Wear protective gear, such as knee pads and elbow pads, to prevent injuries during practice.
Conclusion
Learning how to do a behind the back can be a rewarding experience for any skateboarder. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this cool trick. Remember to practice with patience and perseverance, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from more experienced skaters. Happy skateboarding!
