Skateboarding Made Simple · Chapter 6 of 18
A kick turn is lifting your front wheels and pivoting on your back wheels. It is the move that unlocks ramps, tight turns and a ton of tricks.
In This Chapter
- Finding the balance point
- Pivoting on the back wheels
- Kick turns on a ramp
Gear Check
Board, flat shoes, smooth ground.
Step by Step
- Stand still with your back foot on the tail and front foot behind the front bolts.
- Press the tail down gently until the front wheels just lift.
- Turn your shoulders and the board follows, pivoting on the back wheels.
- Set the front wheels back down.
- Now try it while rolling slowly.
Tip
Use your shoulders to lead. Turn your head and shoulders first and your hips follow.
Remember
You only need to lift the front wheels an inch or two.
Warning
Too much pressure on the tail and the board shoots out. Press just enough.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
- Lifting too high. Small lifts, smooth pivots.
- Not turning shoulders. Your upper body drives the turn.
- Weight all on back foot. Keep some weight on your front foot.
Skate Nerd Stuff
Kick turns are the base for 180s, reverts and turning on ramps.
Your Practice Plan
- 10 small kick turns each way standing still.
- 10 each way while rolling slowly.
- Try a 90 degree kick turn, then work toward 180.
Need gear or a hand dialing it in? Stop by the shop inside the Carson City Mall or shop decks online.