Want to take your skateboarding skills to the next level? Learning how to kickturn on a skateboard is a game-changer! If you’re riding on flat ground, carving through a skatepark, or tackling mini ramps. The kickturn is one of the most important skills to master.
This simple yet powerful move makes you turn quickly, navigate obstacles, and confidently control your board. It’s also the foundation for more advanced tricks like rock-to-fakies and tail stalls. But how to do kickturn on a skateboard. Don’t worry! You are in the right place. It’s easier than it looks!
In this article, I’ll break down the step-by-step process of Kickturn on a Skateboard and explain the difference between frontside and backside kickturns. I’ll also share pro tips to help you improve faster.
Are you ready to learn? Grab your board, and let’s get started!
What is a Kickturn in Skateboarding?
A kickturn is a basic skateboarding trick. It helps you change direction while riding a skateboard. Lift your front wheels slightly off the ground. Then, pivot on your back wheels to turn. This trick is useful for avoiding obstacles and riding ramps. It also builds confidence for advanced tricks.
There are two types of kick turns in skateboarding:
- Backside Kickturn: Your back faces the direction you’re turning.
- Frontside Kickturn: Your chest faces the direction you’re turning.
Both variations are essential for improving control, especially on ramps and in bowls.
How to Kickturn on a Skateboard: Step-by-Step Guide
The kickturn is a key skateboarding skill. It helps you turn quickly and stay in control. You can use it on flat ground, ramps, or banks. Learning this trick will also help you progress to more advanced moves. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner then follow these simple steps!
Step 1: Find the Right Place to Practice
Before you start, pick a good practice spot.
- Best places: Flat ground, a mini ramp, or a gentle bank.
- Avoid rough or slippery surfaces: They make balancing harder.
- Practice in an open area: So you can focus without distractions.
Starting in a comfortable spot makes learning kickturns much easier!
Step 2: Position Your Feet Correctly
Proper foot placement is key to maintaining balance while doing a kick turn on a skateboard.
- Place your back foot firmly on the tail of the skateboard.
- Keep your front foot near the front bolts for better stability.
- Keep your knees slightly bent to stay balanced and absorb movement.
- Look in the direction you want to turn, your body will naturally follow.
Related Article: How to turn on a Skateboard!
Step 3: Start the Kickturn Motion
Now, it’s time to initiate the turn. This step is all about shifting weight and using your upper body to guide the movement.
- Shift your weight slightly onto your back foot.
- Lift the front wheels slightly off the ground just enough to pivot.
- Use your shoulders and head to lead the turn—your board will follow.
Think of this as steering with your upper body. The smoother your motion, the better your turn will be.
Step 4: Pivot and Land Smoothly
Once your front wheels are off the ground, it’s time to complete the turn.
- Rotate your shoulders in the direction you want to go.
- Let your hips and feet follow the movement naturally.
- Gently lower your front wheels back onto the ground to finish the turn.
If you’re struggling with the motion, start with small turns and gradually work your way up to a full 180 kick turn skateboard move.
Learning how to kickturn on a skateboard is a fundamental skill that every skater should master. It helps you control direction, navigate obstacles, and prepare for more advanced tricks. The more you practice, the smoother and more confident your turns will become!
Backside vs. Frontside Kickturns: What’s the Difference?
When learning how to kickturn on a skateboard, you’ll come across two key variations: backside kickturns and frontside kickturns. The main difference is the direction you turn and how your body faces during the movement. Here’s a detailed comparison:
| Kickturn Type | Body Position | Turning Direction | Difficulty Level | Best for Beginners? | Where to Use It? |
| Backside Kickturn | Your back faces the turn | Heels lead the movement | Easier | Yes! | Mini ramps, banks, bowls |
| Frontside Kickturn | Your chest faces the turn | Toes lead the movement | Harder | No, takes more practice | Transitions, ramps, advanced tricks |
Start with backside kickturns to build confidence, then gradually work on frontside kickturns as your balance improves. The more you practice, the smoother your turns will be!
Recently Published Article: What Are the Best Skateboard Trucks!
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
01. Leaning Too Far Back
- Problem: Causes loss of balance and potential falls.
- Solution: Keep weight centered and lift the front wheels slightly.
02. Stiff Upper Body
- Problem: Limits smooth rotation.
- Solution: Lead the movement with your shoulders and head.
03. Fear of Falling
- Problem: Hesitation leads to incomplete turns.
- Solution: Start small with tic-tacs before progressing to full 180 kick turn skateboard moves.
Pro Tips for Mastering the Kickturn Skateboard Trick
- Start Stationary: Practice kick turning skateboard on grass or carpet before trying it on concrete.
- Use a Gentle Bank: A small incline helps develop balance for kick turn skateboard trick mastery.
- Watch the Pros: Learn from skaters like Braille Skateboarding Kickturn tutorials for additional insights.
- Stay Relaxed: Keep your body loose and avoid tensing up.
- Try the Fakie Kickturn: Once comfortable, experiment with fakie kickturn skateboard for an extra challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About How to Kickturn on a Skateboard
Can I practice kickturns while standing still?
Yes! Practicing on grass or carpet helps you get used to the motion without worrying about rolling away. Once you’re comfortable, try it on smooth pavement.
What’s the difference between a tic-tac and a kickturn?
Tic-tacs are small back-and-forth turns used to gain momentum. Kickturns lift the front wheels higher and pivot the board in a controlled direction change.
Why do I lose balance when trying to kickturn?
You might be leaning too far back or not using your shoulders enough to guide the turn. Keep your knees bent, stay centered, and make small turns first before progressing to bigger ones.
What’s the difference between a pivot and a kickturn?
A pivot is when you turn the board on just the back wheels without lifting them off the ground, while a kickturn requires lifting the front wheels slightly.
Do I need to know tic-tacs before learning kickturns?
Tic-tacs are helpful for getting comfortable with turning motions, but they’re not required. You can go straight to kickturns if you feel confident.
Final Words
Learning how to kickturn on a skateboard is important for all skaters. It helps you turn and stay in control. You can practice on flat ground, ramps, or banks. Mastering this move will boost your confidence and skills!
Keep practicing, stay balanced, and soon you’ll be incorporating kick turns skateboarding into your regular trick arsenal!
