Learn Tech Deck Half Pipe Tricks: Step-by-Step Instructions
Ever dreamt of mastering the art of skating, proving your skills in a Tech Deck half pipe? A Tech Deck, popularly known as a fingerboard, is a compact, portable, and best of all, a whole lot of fun. Half pipes are the bread and butter of street skaters and fingerboarders alike. Getting started on your Tech Deck half pipe journey is as easy as following these simple, step-by-step instructions.
With the right technique and a little determination, you'll be performing awesome tricks like the pros in no time. Let's dive right in, and learn how to master the Tech Deck half pipe!
Setting Up Your Tech Deck Half Pipe
The first step in your fingerboarding journey is setting up your half pipe. A well-built, stable half pipe will help you perform your tricks with ease and confidence. Here's how to set it up correctly:
Positioning,-mounted properly at a comfortable height – usually around your belly button level. This ensures you have adequate leverage to control your Tech Deck while performing tricks. Remember, the height can be adjusted to suit your preference as your skills progress.
Mounting Your Half Pipe
Mounting your half pipe is a breeze. Most half pipes come with pre-drilled holes and screws for mounting. Here's what you need to do:
- Find a solid wall or structure that can support the weight of the half pipe and your activities.
- Use the pre-drilled holes to mark where you want to drill into the wall. Ensure the half pipe's angle is about 30-40° from the ground.
- Drill holes into the wall. Make sure to use a drill bit that matches or is slightly smaller than your wall screws.
- Secure the half pipe to the wall using the screws provided. Ensure it's sturdy before you start skating.
Angling Your Half Pipe
Angling your half pipe correctly is crucial to performing your tricks safely and effectively.
Tech Deck half pipes are designed to mimic real skateboarding half pipes. Therefore, the angle is typically around 30-40 degrees.
Testing your half pipe at different angles is essential. Gradually adjust the angle until you find the perfect sweet spot that allows you to perform tricks comfortably and confidently.
Mastering Tech Deck Half Pipe Tricks
Now that your half pipe is set up, it's time to get started with the fun part – performing tricks!
Here, we'll focus on four fundamental tricks to help you build your confidence and skillset. Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't be disheartened if you don't nail these tricks on your first attempt.
Ollie
The Ollie is the core of fingerboarding and skateboarding. It's the foundation upon which all other tricks are built.
Position your Tech Deck at the edge of the half pipe. Grip the board with your index and middle fingers. Push down on the tail of the Tech Deck, then swiftly pop it off the ground while sliding your fingers forward on the board.
50-50 Grind
This trick requires some basic Ollie skills. On the half pipe, Ollie over the coping, then use your locating your Tech Deck onto the coping for the grind.
Land softly on the other side of the half pipe and roll away. Mastering the 50-50 grind will help you build up to more advanced grinds like the 5-0 and nosegrind.
Air
The Air is a classic trick that involves you, the skater, leaving the ground and the board, which remains on the coping.
Approach the half pipe, aim just above the coping, jump slightly, and leap off the board. Your Tech Deck should stay on the coping.
Once you've mastered the Air, you can progress to more advanced tricks like the Frontside and Backside Air.
Kickflip
To perform a kickflip, you start by landing an Ollie. As your Tech Deck leaves the ground, flick your kicking foot simultaneously.
Keep your foot in contact with the board until it kicks out. Land the kickflip and roll away.
Once you've mastered these foundational tricks, you'll be well on your way to mastering your Tech Deck half pipe!
Don't forget, like all sports, fingerboarding involves a certain level of risk. Always ensure you're wearing the right safety gear and skating in a safe environment.
Remember, the next trick is always just a fingertip away. Keep practicing, and in no time, you'll be performing like a pro in your Tech Deck half pipe.