How to Improve Your Vert Ollie: Techniques and Drills

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Mastering the vert ollie is a key skill for skateboarders looking to elevate their tricks and perform more impressive jumps. It combines timing, technique, and practice. This article explores effective techniques and drills to help you improve your vert ollie.

Understanding the Vert Ollie

The vert ollie is a foundational trick where you use your legs and body to lift the skateboard into the air without grabbing it. Unlike a flat-ground ollie, the vert ollie involves more height and often a more explosive motion. Developing a strong vert ollie enhances your overall skateboarding skills and prepares you for more complex tricks.

Key Techniques for Improving Your Vert Ollie

  • Proper Stance: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart with your back foot on the tail and front foot near the bolts. Maintain a balanced posture.
  • Popping: Use your back foot to quickly pop the tail down, generating upward force.
  • Dragging: Simultaneously drag your front foot up the board to level it out during the jump.
  • Timing: Coordinate the pop and drag smoothly for maximum height.
  • Body Position: Keep your shoulders aligned and center your weight over the board for control.

Effective Drills to Boost Your Vert Ollie

Consistent practice is essential. Incorporate these drills into your routine to see improvement:

  • Wall Ollies: Practice ollies against a wall to develop explosive pop and proper timing without worrying about landing.
  • Height Focus: Use a sturdy object or a small ramp to practice reaching higher with each ollie.
  • Pop and Drag: Break down the trick by first mastering just the pop, then adding the drag motion with your front foot.
  • Video Analysis: Record your attempts to analyze and refine your technique over time.
  • Strength and Flexibility: Incorporate leg and core exercises to improve explosive power and balance.

Tips for Success

Remember, patience and persistence are key. Progress might be slow at first, but consistent practice will lead to improvements. Focus on proper technique, and don’t get discouraged by falls or setbacks. Over time, your vert ollie will become higher, smoother, and more controlled.

Keep practicing, stay safe, and enjoy the ride as you elevate your skateboarding skills to new heights!