How to Do a Backside 180 (Skateboard Trick Tutorial)

Learn the essential techniques and tips on how to do the backside skateboard trick. Avoid common mistakes that beginners make and improve your skills!

Have you ever tried to do a backside on a skateboard, only to find yourself stumbling and falling on the pavement? Trust me, I’ve been there. But don’t worry because, in this blog post, I’m going to teach you how to do a backside on your skateboard.

You’ll learn how to do and master the backside 180 with this easy step-by-step guide. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, this post has got everything you need to know about how to do a backside trick. So grab your board, and let’s grind into it!

What is a backside?

A backside is a skateboard trick where the skater rotates their board while riding with their back facing the direction they’re turning towards. In a backside 180, the skater turns their board and body so that they are turning towards their heels or the back of their feet and complete a 180-degree turn in the air. It’s a foundational trick that can be built upon to execute more complex tricks like the backside 360.

Image of a skater doing a skateboard trick. Source: pexels
Image of a skater doing a skateboard trick. Source: pexels
Advertisements
My favorite complete skateboard (at the moment):

Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard

How to do a backside 180 (skateboard trick tutorial) | 61vn95mf7ql. Ac sl1184 | skateboard salad
My favorite complete skateboard (at the moment):

Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard

I had my board stolen a few years ago and was forced to quickly replace it with a complete. I got one with an Enjoi deck and loved it so much that I still buy the Whitey Panda deck each time I need a new deck. This complete with budget-friendly, beginner-friendly parts, but I still swear by it.

Who invented the backside?

It’s unclear who exactly invented the backside trick in skateboarding, as skateboarding history is filled with various tricks and maneuvers that have evolved over time. However, it’s known that the backside turn and other backside-related tricks have been around since at least the 1970s when skateboarding was still in its early stages.

…credited with inventing several flip tricks using a new skateboard design for aerial maneuvers by the 1980s after Curt Lindgren had invented the kickflip in 1978.

One influential skateboarder who helped popularize and innovate the backside trick was Rodney Mullen. He is credited with inventing several flip tricks using a new skateboard design for aerial maneuvers by the 1980s after Curt Lindgren had invented the kickflip in 1978. Tony Hawk is another famous skateboarder known for inventing numerous tricks, including many backside-related ones like the backside 360 ollie and backside varial.

How to do a backside 180

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how to do a backside on a skateboard, it’s important to note that this trick can be difficult and takes a lot of practice. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right away. With patience and determination, you’ll be able to nail it in no time! Now, let’s get started.

  1. Ride towards the jump

    Start by riding towards a jump or ramp with a moderate speed, and position yourself in the middle of the board with your knees slightly bent.

  2. Initiate the turn

    As you approach the jump, begin to turn your upper body in the opposite direction you want to go. If you’re regular-footed, turn your body to the right. If you’re goofy-footed, turn your body to the left.

  3. Pop the tail

    As you begin to turn, pop the tail of your skateboard by jumping off the back foot. This will help to lift the board off the ground and initiate the rotation.

  4. Execute the turn

    Once you’re in the air, complete the turn by rotating your board and body 180 degrees in the opposite direction of the turn. This means that if you turn your upper body to the right, you should rotate your board to the left, and vice versa.

  5. Land and roll away

    As you complete the turn, prepare to land on the skateboard. Use your legs to absorb the impact and maintain balance, and roll away smoothly.

Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to do a backside 180 on a skateboard. Remember to practice consistently and have fun!

If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “How To: Backside 180 | Backside 180 Tutorial” from Tom’s Tutorials YouTube channel.

A video called “How To: Backside 180 | Backside 180 Tutorial” from Tom’s Tutorials YouTube channel.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Do you still have questions about how to do a backside? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions.

What is the technique for performing a backside?

To perform a backside on a skateboard, you need to turn your back to the direction in which you are skating and rotate your body 180 degrees. You must ensure that your shoulders and hips are aligned with the board and that you have sufficient speed to perform the trick.

How do I maintain my balance while performing a backside?

To maintain balance during a backside on a skateboard, you need to distribute your weight evenly on the board, keeping your knees bent and your eyes focused on the direction in which you are skating. Try to stay centered over the board and keep your arms extended to help with balance.

What should I keep in mind while attempting a backside on a skateboard?

Before attempting a backside on a skateboard, you should ensure that you have enough experience and skill to perform the trick safely. Always wear protective gear, such as a helmet and pads, and make sure the area where you will perform the trick is clear of obstacles. Additionally, try to focus on your form and technique, and do not rush the trick, as it requires practice and patience to master.

Conclusion

Alright, folks, we’ve come to the end of the road. I hope you’ve enjoyed the ride as much as I have. But now, the million-dollar question (drum roll please): have you learned everything you need to know about how to do a backside? I hope so, but if you have any lingering doubts, don’t be shy! Let me know in the comments section below, and I’ll get back to you ASAP.

Remember, sharing is caring. So, if you found this article helpful, pass it along to a friend who could use some pointers on their skateboarding game. And if you’re hungry for more tips and tricks, check out my full blog for all things skateboarding. Thanks for sticking with me until the end. Keep practicing that backside, and before you know it, you’ll be shredding like Tony Hawk.

Key takeaways

This article covered how to do a backside. Here are some key takeaways:

  • A backside is a skateboard trick where the skater rotates their board while riding with their back facing the direction they’re turning towards
  • The backside turn and other backside-related tricks have been around since at least the 1970s when skateboarding was still in its early stages.
  • To maintain balance during a backside on a skateboard, you need to distribute your weight evenly on the board.
  • Always wear protective gear, such as a helmet and pads, and make sure the area where you will perform the trick is clear of obstacles.

Helpful resources

Steven Portrate
Written by Steven Sadder, Staff Writer

Hey! I'm Steven, a lifelong skater, and proud New Yorker. I’ve been skating since I was a teenager. I may be a bit older now, but I'm not slowing down. Follow me for skating tips and latest gear reviews.

Nick eggert.
Edited by Nick Eggert, Staff Editor

Nick is our staff editor and co-founder. He has a passion for writing, editing, and website development. His expertise lies in shaping content with precision and managing digital spaces with a keen eye for detail.

Verified User Black 24dp

Fact-Checked

Our team conducts thorough evaluations of every article, guaranteeing that all information comes from reliable sources.

Event Available Black 24dp

Up-to-Date

We diligently maintain our content, regularly updating articles to ensure they reflect the most recent information.

Leave a Comment