How to Ollie on a Snowboard
Similar to skateboarding, one of the first tricks you want
to attempt on a snowboard is the ollie. An ollie is a practical trick that can
be used all around the mountain and is the precursor for more advanced tricks.
Is an ollie the same thing as jumping?
No, at first it may appear that an ollie is just someone
jumping off the snow with their snowboard. While technically this is true, the difference
is HOW you specifically jump off the snow. With an ollie, you don’t jump up
with both feet at the same time. Instead, you bring your front foot up first
followed by your back foot to do an ollie.
Why would I ollie instead of jumping?
Ollie-ing has a distinct advantage. The ollie takes
advantage to the natural spring you have strapped to your feet – the snowboard.
When you bring up your front foot first to do an ollie it causes your board to
flex which will store up energy like a spring. Then, when you begin to bring up
your back foot, you are effectively unspringing your board and transferring that
energy upward. It’s an awesome feeling when done right!
How to ollie?
Note: before you attempt to ollie you should already be
comfortable navigating your way around green (easy) slopes. Additionally, the
best place to practice your first ollies are on flat and even terrain.
Step 1: Get comfortable on your board – find your balance and
get into an athletic stance (knees slightly bent).
Step 2: Bend your knees like you’re getting ready to jump,
then start to spring upward by lifting your front foot up hard.
Step 3: A split second after you have started lifting with
your front foot, start lifting your back foot up hard.
Step 4: Suck both knees equally up towards your chest. At
the highest point of your jump you want your board to be level so that you are
well prepared for the landing.
Step 5: Get ready to absorb your landing and ride away.
Pro Tip: Practice your ollie standing still! You don’t have
to be moving to get started. Once you feel comfortable doing it still, then
start trying them at a slow speed and build your way up.