Switch-stance tricks are a goal that many intermediate skaters aspire to once they have built up a repertoire of moves. Among them, the switch kickflip stands out as a representative trick. Although the basic technique remains the same even in switch stance, it is difficult to land consistently at first. Since this trick is typically practiced by skaters who are already comfortable with the kickflip in their regular stance, they already have the fundamental skills. The key to success lies in paying attention to a few aspects of form, which can make it easier to land the trick.

STEP BY STEP TIPS

1. 重心の置き方

The first thing to be mindful of is your balance point. At first, you might instinctively try to replicate your regular stance, but for switch stance, it becomes more stable if you shift your balance slightly toward your heels—similar to a heelflip—and just a bit closer to your front foot. Placing your balance point on the heel side may feel opposite to how you do a regular kickflip, which is not uncommon. However, focusing on this adjustment can make the trick significantly easier.

2. Direction of your body

The next thing to focus on is turning your body more sideways compared to when you are in your regular stance. This helps the board flip more easily directly beneath you.

3. Focus on Front Foot

Once your form is stable, the rest is just like a regular kickflip—jump straight up and use your front foot to flip the board with control. When doing it in switch stance, skaters usually do not struggle as much with the common beginner issue of “not being able to land with both feet,” since they have already overcome that when learning the kickflip in their regular stance. By focusing on your form and performing the kickflip naturally, you should gradually start landing it consistently.