Hey guys! Ever picked up a Tech Deck and wondered what cool tricks you could pull off? Well, you’re in the right place. This guide is all about getting you started with some awesome Tech Deck maneuvers. Whether you're a complete newbie or have already dabbled a bit, we’ll cover everything from the basics to some intermediate tricks that will have you showing off in no time. Let's dive in and get those fingers working!

Getting Started: The Basics

Before you start trying to land the most complex tricks, it’s super important to nail the basics. These fundamental movements will form the foundation for everything else you learn. Think of it like learning to walk before you can run – or in this case, learning to push before you can ollie!

The Push

Okay, so the push might seem super obvious, but getting it right is key. Place your index finger near the front of the Tech Deck and your middle finger near the tail. To push, use your index finger to guide the board while your middle finger provides the power. Practice pushing in a straight line and getting a feel for the board's movement. This will help you develop control and coordination, which are crucial for more advanced tricks. Consistency is key here; the smoother your push, the better your setup for tricks. Also, try varying the pressure you apply with your middle finger to control the speed. A light touch gives you a slow, controlled roll, while a firmer push gets you moving faster. This control is essential for setting up different types of tricks.

The Ollie

The ollie is the most important trick in skateboarding, and it's no different with Tech Decks. It’s the foundation for almost every other trick you’ll learn. To perform an ollie, start by positioning your fingers as described for the push. Then, slide your index finger back towards the middle of the board while simultaneously popping the tail with your middle finger. The goal is to get the board airborne, even if just a little bit. Practice this motion repeatedly until it becomes natural. Focus on the timing of the slide and pop – they should happen almost simultaneously. As you get more comfortable, try to level out the board in the air by pushing your index finger forward. This will help you achieve a cleaner, more controlled ollie. Remember, practice makes perfect! Don't get discouraged if you don't land it right away. Keep practicing, and you'll get there.

The Pop Shove-It

The Pop Shove-It is where things start to get a little more exciting. This trick involves popping the board and making it rotate 180 degrees without moving forward. Start with your fingers in the ollie position. Instead of sliding your index finger straight back, slide it back and slightly to the side as you pop the tail. This will cause the board to spin. The key is to catch the board with your fingers after it completes the rotation. Focus on using your middle finger to generate the spin and your index finger to guide the board. At first, you might find that the board spins too much or not enough. Experiment with the amount of pressure and the angle of your finger to find the sweet spot. Once you can consistently land Pop Shove-Its, you'll be ready to move on to even more challenging tricks.

Intermediate Tricks: Level Up Your Skills

Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to step up your game with some intermediate tricks. These require a bit more coordination and practice, but they’re totally achievable with some dedication. Plus, they look super cool when you nail them!

The Kickflip

The Kickflip is a classic skateboarding trick that translates perfectly to Tech Decks. It involves flipping the board 360 degrees along its long axis. To do a Kickflip, start with your fingers in the ollie position. As you slide your index finger back, flick it off the side of the board. This flick is what causes the board to flip. The key is to flick your finger at the right angle and with the right amount of force. Too much force, and the board will spin too fast; too little, and it won't flip completely. Experiment with different angles and pressures until you find what works best for you. Catch the board with your fingers after it completes the flip. This trick might take some time to master, but it’s incredibly rewarding once you get it down. Remember to keep practicing the ollie as well, as a good ollie is essential for landing Kickflips consistently.

The Heelflip

The Heelflip is similar to the Kickflip, but instead of flicking your finger off the side of the board, you flick it off the other side, causing the board to flip in the opposite direction. Start in the ollie position, and as you slide your index finger back, flick it off the opposite side of the board compared to a Kickflip. This will cause the board to flip towards you. Like the Kickflip, the key is to find the right angle and pressure for your flick. Catch the board with your fingers after it completes the flip. Many people find Heelflips more challenging than Kickflips, so don't get discouraged if it takes you a while to learn. Break the trick down into smaller steps and focus on mastering each step before moving on. With enough practice, you'll be landing Heelflips in no time.

The 360 Ollie

The 360 Ollie combines the ollie with a 360-degree rotation of the board. This trick requires a lot of coordination and timing. Start in the ollie position, and as you pop the tail, use your fingers to spin the board 360 degrees. The key is to use both your index and middle fingers to generate the spin. Your index finger should guide the board, while your middle finger provides the power. Catch the board with your fingers after it completes the rotation. This trick is all about momentum and control. You need to generate enough spin to complete the rotation without losing control of the board. Practice the motion slowly at first, and gradually increase the speed as you get more comfortable. Don't be afraid to experiment with different finger positions and pressures to find what works best for you. Once you master the 360 Ollie, you'll be able to combine it with other tricks for even more impressive combos.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

Alright, you've got the basics and some intermediate tricks down. Now let's talk about some advanced tips and tricks to really elevate your Tech Deck game. These tips will help you refine your technique, improve your consistency, and learn even more complex maneuvers.

Finger Placement

Finger placement is crucial for controlling your Tech Deck and performing tricks consistently. Experiment with different finger positions to find what works best for you. Some people prefer to have their fingers close together, while others like to spread them out. The key is to find a position that gives you maximum control and allows you to generate the necessary power for each trick. Pay attention to how your finger placement affects the board's behavior. For example, placing your fingers closer to the tail can help you generate more pop for ollies, while placing them closer to the nose can improve your control during spins. Experimentation is key to finding the perfect finger placement for each trick.

Consistency is Key

Like any skill, consistency is key to mastering Tech Deck tricks. The more you practice, the more consistent you'll become. Set aside some time each day to practice your tricks, and don't get discouraged if you don't land them perfectly every time. Focus on improving your technique and refining your movements. Over time, you'll develop muscle memory and your tricks will become more natural and effortless. Record yourself practicing and analyze your technique. This can help you identify areas where you need to improve and track your progress over time. Remember, even the best Tech Deckers started where you are now. With patience and persistence, you can achieve your goals.

Combining Tricks

Once you've mastered a few basic and intermediate tricks, start experimenting with combining them. This is where things get really fun and you can start to create your own unique style. Try linking ollies with kickflips or heelflips, or combine pop shove-its with grinds. The possibilities are endless! Start by practicing each trick individually, then gradually link them together. Pay attention to the transitions between tricks and try to make them as smooth as possible. Combining tricks is a great way to challenge yourself and push your skills to the next level. It also allows you to express your creativity and develop your own signature style.

Finding Your Style

Ultimately, the goal is to find your own unique style and have fun with it. Don't be afraid to experiment with different tricks and combinations, and don't worry about what other people think. The most important thing is to enjoy yourself and express your creativity. Watch videos of professional Tech Deckers for inspiration, but don't try to copy them exactly. Instead, use their techniques as a starting point and adapt them to your own style. Remember, the best Tech Deckers are those who are true to themselves and have fun with it.

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to Tech Deck tricks for beginners and beyond. With practice and dedication, you’ll be landing awesome tricks in no time. Keep practicing, stay patient, and most importantly, have fun! Now go shred that tiny board!