Introduction
Welcome to the World of Tech Decking
If you’re looking for a thrilling and challenging way to showcase your skateboarding skills without leaving your living room, then welcome to the exciting world of tech decking! Tech decks, also known as fingerboards, miniature skateboards that you can maneuver with your fingers. This miniature skateboarding trend has taken the world by storm, attracting people of all ages to master the art of fingerboarding. Whether you’re a seasoned skateboarder or a beginner looking for a fun hobby, tech decking offers a unique experience that will keep you entertained for hours.
What is an Ollie and Why It’s Important
At the core of skateboarding, and tech decking, is the ollie – a fundamental trick that forms the basis of many other maneuvers. Mastering the ollie is essential because it allows you to lift your board off the ground and perform various tricks, giving you the freedom to explore a world of possibilities. Just like in traditional skateboarding, the ollie is the foundation of every fingerboarding trick you’ll attempt, making it crucial to get it right.
Getting Started
Choosing the Right Tech Deck
When it comes to tech decking, not all fingerboards are created equal. There’s a wide range of tech deck brands and models available, each offering unique features and designs. Consider factors like size, shape, concave, and deck material to find the one that suits your preferences and style. Choose a tech deck that feels comfortable in your hand and has the right amount of pop for your tricks.
Setting Up Your Workspace
Before you embark on your fingerboarding journey, it’s essential to set up a suitable workspace. Find a flat and smooth surface with enough space to move your fingers freely. A desk or table with a non-slip surface works great. You can also invest in a fingerboard park to add more challenges and excitement to your practice sessions.
Mastering the Basics
Understanding Your Tech Deck Components
To become a proficient tech decker, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the components of your fingerboard. A typical tech deck consists of a deck, trucks, wheels, and grip tape. Each element plays a crucial role in the performance of your fingerboard. Understanding how these parts work together will give you an edge in controlling your board during tricks.
Hand Placement and Stance
Now that you’ve got your tech deck set up, it’s time to get into position. Proper hand placement is essential for maintaining control and stability while performing tricks. Position your fingers on the deck, just like you would position your feet on a regular skateboard. Experiment with different finger placements to find what feels most comfortable and allows you to pop the board smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ollie
Step 1: The Setup Position
To initiate an ollie, start by placing your index and middle fingers near the back of the tech deck, while your thumb rests on the bottom side of the board. Your ring and pinky fingers should be positioned on the top side of the deck for stability. This setup position prepares you for the pop.
Step 2: The Pop
With your fingers in the setup position, apply downward pressure with your thumb while simultaneously pulling up with your index and middle fingers. This motion creates the pop, causing the tail of the tech deck to hit the ground and lift the nose into the air.
Step 3: The Slide
As the tech deck pops into the air, slide your hand forward towards the nose. This motion levels out the board, keeping it parallel to the ground during the ollie. The timing of the slide is crucial for achieving a smooth and controlled ollie.
Step 4: The Landing
After sliding your hand forward, prepare for the landing. As the tech deck starts to descend, slightly lift your fingers to let the board drop back down. Maintain balance and control as the deck makes contact with the surface again.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Dealing with Lack of Pop
If you find that your ollies lack pop, there are a few things to consider. Check if your fingers are placed correctly and apply more force during the pop motion. Additionally, try adjusting the tightness of your trucks to find the right balance for optimal pop.
Overcoming Uneven Slides
Achieving a smooth and even slide takes practice. Ensure your hand movements are fluid and precise during the ollie. Focus on maintaining a consistent motion from the pop to the slide to create a seamless ollie.
Taking Your Ollie to the Next Level
Adding Style to Your Ollie
Once you’ve mastered the basic ollie, it’s time to add some flair to your fingerboarding skills. Experiment with different hand positions, tweak your finger movements, and explore variations like one-footed ollies or nollies (nose ollies).
Practicing Ollie Variations
Challenge yourself by attempting ollies over obstacles or combining them with other tricks. Get creative and let your imagination run wild with the possibilities of fingerboard trick combinations.
Safety Tips
Wearing Protective Gear
Though tech decking is done with your fingers, it’s always a good idea to wear protective gear like wrist guards and finger caps. These small but essential pieces of gear can help prevent injuries and allow you to skate with confidence.
Choosing the Right Practice Surface
Select a smooth and flat surface to practice your ollies. Avoid surfaces with excessive friction that might hinder your fingerboard’s movements. A clean and well-maintained desk or fingerboard park is ideal for honing your skills.
Maintaining Your Tech Deck
Cleaning and Lubricating Your Wheels
Regularly clean your tech deck wheels to keep them rolling smoothly. Use a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris, and consider lubricating the bearings to maintain optimal performance.
Replacing Worn-Out Components
As you progress in your fingerboarding journey, components of your tech deck might wear out. Replace worn-out wheels, griptape, or even the deck itself to ensure you have a safe and responsive fingerboard.
Conclusion
Celebrate Your Ollie Progress
Congratulations! You’ve taken your first steps into the fascinating world of tech decking and successfully learned how to ollie on a tech deck. Embrace the progress you’ve made and enjoy the thrill of mastering this fundamental trick.
Keep Pushing Your Limits and Have Fun!
As you continue on your tech decking journey, remember to keep pushing your limits, trying new tricks, and exploring different fingerboarding styles. The beauty of tech decking lies in the endless possibilities it offers, allowing you to express yourself creatively and have fun while doing it. So, go ahead, keep practicing, and enjoy the exhilarating ride!