So you've mastered the ollie, but now you're hungry for more air? Want to clear those gaps and obstacles with style? This in-depth guide will walk you through the techniques and drills to help you learn how to jump higher on a skateboard, boosting your ollies to new heights.
Mastering the Fundamentals: Before You Jump Higher
Before we delve into advanced techniques, let's ensure you have a solid foundation. A higher ollie isn't just about brute force; it's about technique and proper body mechanics.
1. Perfecting Your Ollie:
- Consistent Pop: Your ollie starts with a powerful, consistent pop from your back foot. Practice popping your board consistently – aim for the same height and power each time. Inconsistency is the enemy of height.
- Leveling Your Board: Your board should be parallel to the ground before and after the pop. Practice your pop and level your board before focusing on height.
- Foot Placement: Experiment slightly with foot placement to find what works best for you. However, a generally accepted position is your front foot positioned slightly behind the front bolts and your back foot positioned over the tail.
- Slide and Scoop: This is the key! You need a smooth slide up your board while simultaneously scooping your front foot upwards. This maneuver is crucial for maximizing your jump height.
2. Strengthening Your Legs and Core:
Jumping higher requires strength. Incorporate these exercises into your routine:
- Squats: Build leg strength and explosive power.
- Lunges: Improve leg stability and balance.
- Calf Raises: Strengthen your calves, essential for board control.
- Core Work (Planks, Crunches): A strong core provides stability and balance mid-air.
Techniques to Increase Your Ollie Height
Now that you've honed your fundamentals, let's explore techniques to significantly increase your ollie height:
1. The Power of the Pop:
- Snap Your Ankles: Don't just push down with your back foot; snap your ankles to generate explosive power. This adds significant height.
- Use Your Entire Leg: Drive the pop from your entire leg, not just your ankle. Engage your quads and hamstrings for maximum power.
- Timing is Key: The timing between your pop, slide, and scoop needs to be perfectly synchronized. Practice until it becomes second nature.
2. Body Positioning and Movement:
- Tuck Your Knees: Bringing your knees towards your chest during the jump increases your board's height and helps maintain control.
- Level Your Shoulders: Maintain a level posture throughout the jump to prevent your board from tilting.
- Extend Your Legs: As you reach the peak of your jump, fully extend your legs to give yourself that extra bit of air.
3. Practice Drills:
- Ollie Practice with Different Heights: Start with small obstacles and gradually increase the height. This will build your confidence and your ability to time your jump.
- Ollie over Small Obstacles: Set up small obstacles and practice consistently clearing them, working your way up to more challenging jumps.
Advanced Tips for Higher Ollies
- Pre-jump Momentum: Gently roll towards your ollie before jumping. This adds momentum to the jump, resulting in more height.
- Visualize Your Jump: Before each attempt, visualize yourself completing a high, clean ollie. Mental preparation is powerful.
- Consistency and Patience: Mastering a higher ollie takes time and dedication. Be patient with yourself, keep practicing, and celebrate your progress along the way.
Conclusion:
Learning to jump higher on a skateboard is a journey that requires dedication, practice, and a focus on proper technique. By mastering the fundamentals, understanding the techniques, and diligently practicing the drills, you can elevate your ollie game to a whole new level. Remember to prioritize safety, start slow, and consistently push your limits in a controlled environment. Soon enough, you'll be clearing obstacles with confidence and style!
