Mastering Ramp Skate Tricks: Level Two

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Ramp skating is an exhilarating sport that combines skill, balance, and creativity. Once you've conquered the basics on the ramp, it's time to elevate your game with some intermediate tricks. This guide will walk you through essential land tricks for the second ramp skate, helping you progress safely and confidently.

Essential Preparations

Before attempting any new tricks, ensure you have the proper safety gear. This includes a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. Also, warm up with basic skating to get your muscles ready. A solid foundation in fundamental skating techniques is crucial for learning more advanced maneuvers.

Mastering the Roll-In

The roll-in is a basic yet vital skill for ramp skating. It allows you to smoothly transition onto the ramp without losing momentum. Here’s how to perfect it:

  1. Start with the Right Position: Position yourself at the top of the ramp with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Lean Forward: Gently lean forward, allowing gravity to pull you down the ramp.
  3. Maintain Balance: Keep your knees bent and your weight centered to maintain balance.

The Importance of Balance

Balance is key in ramp skating. Practice balancing on your board both on flat ground and on the ramp. This will improve your stability and control, making it easier to execute tricks.

Intermediate Ramp Tricks

Once you're comfortable with roll-ins and basic balancing, you can start learning these intermediate tricks:

1. The Kickturn

The kickturn is a fundamental trick that involves turning around on the ramp. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Approach the Ramp: Skate towards the ramp with moderate speed.
  2. Lift the Front Wheels: As you reach the transition, slightly lift the front wheels of your board.
  3. Turn Your Body: Rotate your body in the direction you want to turn.
  4. Set the Wheels Down: Gently set the front wheels back down and continue skating in the new direction.

2. The Axle Stall

The axle stall involves balancing on the coping (the metal edge at the top of the ramp) with your board’s trucks. Here’s how to nail it:

  1. Approach with Speed: Approach the ramp with enough speed to reach the coping.
  2. Engage the Trucks: As you reach the coping, engage your board’s trucks onto the edge.
  3. Balance: Maintain your balance by adjusting your weight.
  4. Ride Away: Lean back slightly and drop back into the ramp to ride away.

3. The Rock to Fakie

The rock to fakie is a classic ramp trick that involves rocking back and forth on the coping before returning down the ramp. Here’s how to perform it:

  1. Approach the Coping: Skate towards the ramp with enough speed to reach the coping.
  2. Rock Forward: As you reach the coping, rock forward so that your front wheels go over the edge.
  3. Rock Back: Rock back so that your back wheels go over the edge.
  4. Ride Fakie: Ride back down the ramp in a fakie (backwards) position.

Tips for Success

  • Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial for improving your skills.
  • Watch Tutorials: Watch videos of experienced skaters performing these tricks.
  • Get Feedback: Ask other skaters for advice and feedback.
  • Stay Safe: Always wear your safety gear and skate within your abilities.

Advancing Your Skills

After mastering these intermediate tricks, you can move on to more advanced maneuvers such as airs, grinds, and slides. Keep pushing your limits and exploring new possibilities on the ramp.

Ramp skating is a challenging but rewarding sport. By mastering these land tricks for the second ramp skate, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled ramp skater. Remember to stay safe, practice consistently, and have fun!