How To Ollie On a Tech Deck Perform on Two Fingers
Tech Decks are miniature skateboards that allow enthusiasts to perform tricks and stunts using only their fingers. One of the most iconic tricks that skateboarders master is the ollie. If you’re curious about how to ollie on a Tech Deck, this guide will take you through the steps, tips, and important details you need to get started.
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What is how To Ollie On a Tech Deck
A Tech Deck is a small, finger-operated skateboard designed for performing tricks using your fingers. It originated in the United States in the late 1990s. The mini skateboards are made of high-quality wood and plastic materials, making them sturdy and functional for performing finger-based skateboarding tricks. Tech Decks have become a popular collectible item, as well as a fun way to practice skateboarding techniques on a smaller scale.
Origins
Tech Decks were created by Todd Barket, a California-based inventor. In 1997, he launched Tech Deck as a way to bring the experience of skateboarding indoors, allowing skaters to practice tricks without needing a full-sized board. The company quickly gained popularity and became a favorite among both professional skaters and casual fans of the sport. Now, Tech Decks are sold worldwide and come in a variety of designs, including signature decks from famous skateboarders.
How To Learn
Learning ollie on a Tech Deck is a key milestone for any Tech Deck enthusiast. The ollie is the fundamental trick in both traditional skateboarding and fingerboarding. It involves making the board leap into the air without the use of ramps or obstacles. By mastering this trick, you can open up the door to performing more advanced moves and building your fingerboarding skills.
Step-by-Step Guide
The first step to performing a successful ollie on a Tech Deck is getting comfortable with your board. Hold your Tech Deck with your thumb on the tail and your index finger on the nose. Your fingers should be relaxed, but firm enough to control the board’s movements.
| Skill Level | Time to Learn | Common Mistakes |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 1-2 weeks | Not enough pop, wrong finger drag |
| Intermediate | 1-2 months | Poor landing, uneven motion |
| Advanced | 2-3 months | Inconsistent flick, sloppy timing |
When you are ready, apply pressure to the tail with your thumb to pop the board. This motion is crucial as it helps the Tech Deck lift off the ground. As you pop the tail, quickly drag your index finger up the board along the edge. This action mimics the motion you would use on a regular skateboard to give the board some height.
Key To Success
The key to a successful ollie is a smooth and fluid motion. As the board rises, flick your index finger gently to level out the board in the air. This will ensure that the Tech Deck stays flat and doesn’t flip or spin unnecessarily. Finally, catch the board with your fingers and guide it back down to the surface, aiming for a smooth landing.
Common Mistakes
When learning ollie on a Tech Deck, there are a few common mistakes that beginners often make. One of the most common errors is not applying enough pressure to the tail. Without a solid pop, the board will not lift into the air properly. Another mistake is dragging the index finger too slowly or not in the right direction. This will result in the board either not rising at all or flipping instead of staying level. Lastly, some beginners don’t focus on the landing, which is just as important as the pop itself. Practice landing smoothly and consistently to improve your ollie.
How Long Does It Take to Learn
The time it takes to learn how to ollie on a Tech Deck can vary depending on your practice and experience. For most beginners, it may take a few days or even a couple of weeks to perform a clean ollie. It’s essential to practice consistently, as this will improve your technique and make the motion feel more natural.
Materials and Design
The material used to make Tech Decks plays a crucial role in their performance. Tech Decks are typically made from high-quality plywood, which is durable enough to handle the pressure from your fingers when performing tricks. The wheels are often made from plastic or rubber, allowing for smooth movements. Tech Decks also feature a variety of graphic designs, making them customizable and collectible.
Where to Buy
Tech Decks can be purchased from various online stores and physical retailers, including specialty skateboard shops, toy stores, and websites like Amazon. They are available in different designs, and some even come with additional accessories like ramps or obstacles. You can also find limited-edition Tech Decks featuring your favorite professional skaters.
Evolution
Since the creation of Tech Decks in the late 90s, fingerboarding has evolved significantly. Today, there are various competitions and events where enthusiasts showcase their skills. Some people even create custom fingerboards with upgraded parts like metal trucks and high-quality wheels. The sport continues to grow, and learning ollie on a Tech Deck remains one of the most popular and fundamental tricks in the community.
Competitions Around the World
Fingerboarding has grown into an international sport, with competitions taking place all over the world. These competitions bring together the best fingerboarders to showcase their skills, including ollies and other advanced tricks. Major events are often sponsored by Tech Deck and other brands within the skateboarding industry, and participants compete for prizes and recognition in the community.
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Tips for Improving
If you’re still struggling with ollie on a Tech Deck, don’t be discouraged. Keep these tips in mind to improve your skills:
- Practice regularly: The more you practice, the better you will become at controlling the board.
- Keep your fingers relaxed: Tension in your fingers can hinder your ability to perform smooth movements.
- Watch tutorials: There are plenty of online resources, including videos, that can provide additional tips and tricks.
- Focus on timing: The key to a perfect ollie is timing. Make sure you pop the tail and drag your finger at the right moment.
Conclusion
Learning how to ollie on a Tech Deck is a fun and rewarding skill for any fingerboarding enthusiast. It opens the door to many other tricks and helps you become more confident with your fingerboarding skills. Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your technique, remember that practice is key. Over time, you’ll master the ollie and be able to perform even more complex fingerboard stunts with ease.
