Trick Tip
As seen in the November 2008 Issue of Freeskier Magazine
Welcome to this installment of Trick Tip Tuesdays. Here, we'll revisit our vast archive of trick tips from the past, to get you in fighting shape for summer camp. Here, Peter Olenick, purveyor of the switch backflip, shows you how to stomp that elusive other backflip. For the full Trick Tip Image,
Step 1:
Before attempting this trick, you should be super comfortable with doing backflips. Whether it's on a trampoline or skis or however you want to do backflips. That is super important. Your switch riding skills should be on point, as well… taking off, landing, that sort of thing.
Step 2:
As you roll into the jump switch, just keep the same amount of speed you normally would for hitting it forwards. You'll be looking over one of your shoulders; either one, it doesn't matter. Just get ready for the lip, as the entire trick is made with a proper take off.
Step 3:
Right before you take off, as you're watching the lip, you will look away at the last moment. If you set the backflip while you keep looking at the lip, you'll just do a flare since that is where your head is looking. Don't do that. You will lose the lip right at take off. If you do it right, it's almost like you're guessing where the lip is, but it's not as sketchy as it sounds.
Step 4:
At the lip. pop and set a backflip. You're just riding switch, that's all. See, it wasn't that hard to get the pop right.
Step 5:
Once you are in the air, you can be pretty laid out with your back arched and your knees bent. You'll be able to see the landing the whole way, so no matter how big or small you are going, you can just chill upside-down and know where you are.
Step 6:
As you get ready to land, just pull your legs around so they are underneath you and set 'er down. It's super easy. You won't over or under-rotate. Touch down and ride away. You just did the most fun trick in skiing.
l: Big Bear, CA :: p: Jay Michelfelder
