Skateboarding Made Simple · Chapter 7 of 18
Tic-tacs are quick little kick turns back and forth. They build balance, get you moving without pushing and teach you how to control the tail.
In This Chapter
- Tic-tac basics
- Building rhythm
- Moving forward without pushing
Gear Check
Board, flat shoes, flat ground.
Step by Step
- Stand on the board with your back foot on the tail.
- Lift the front wheels slightly and pivot a little to one side.
- Set the wheels down, lift again, and pivot to the other side.
- Swing your arms gently for rhythm.
- Keep going and you will start moving forward.
Tip
Keep the pivots small and fast. Think tick, tock, tick, tock.
Remember
Tic-tacs are kick turns in miniature. If kick turns feel good, these will come quickly.
Warning
Watch your toes. Do not let your front foot slide off the side.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
- Pivots too big. Small and quick.
- No arm movement. Arms help you balance and keep rhythm.
- Looking down. Look ahead.
Skate Nerd Stuff
Tic-tacking uphill is a great workout and a real skill for skating rough spots.
Your Practice Plan
- Tic-tac 20 times standing still.
- Tic-tac across a parking space.
- Try tic-tacking in a straight line.
Need gear or a hand dialing it in? Stop by the shop inside the Carson City Mall or shop completes online.