TVarial: A Comprehensive Guide for Mastering the Flip Trick

The TVarial, a popular flip trick executed by skateboarders, combines two fundamental tricks: the kickflip and the varial heelflip. It involves flipping the board 360 degrees in a horizontal plane while simultaneously rotating it 90 degrees on the vertical axis.

Understanding the TVarial

Prerequisites

To master the TVarial, skaters must possess a solid foundation in both the kickflip and the varial heelflip. These tricks provide the necessary muscle memory and foot placement techniques.

Mechanics

1. Kickflip Setup:
Begin with your feet in a standard kickflip position: your front foot near the front bolts and your back foot on the tail.

2. Varial Heelflip Motion:
As you kick your front foot forward to perform the kickflip, simultaneously rotate your back foot inward (toward the nose) for a varial heelflip motion.

3. Board Rotation:
The combined motion of the kickflip and varial heelflip causes the board to flip 360 degrees horizontally while spinning 90 degrees vertically.

4. Landing:
As the board completes its rotation, catch it with your feet in a stable landing position.

Tips and Tricks

1. Practice on a Ramp:
Learning the TVarial on a quarter pipe or small ramp reduces the risk of injury and provides a forgiving landing surface.

2. Focus on Foot Placement:
Proper foot placement is crucial. Keep your front foot slightly off-center and your back foot in line with the side bolts.

3. Use Your Shoulders:
To generate sufficient power for the flip, engage your shoulders. Wind them up and release them at the moment of the kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Rushing the Trick:
Take your time to set up the trick properly. Rushing can lead to uneven rotations or missed catches.

2. Kicking Too Low:
Kick your front foot high enough to ensure a complete 360-degree rotation. Kicking too low will result in an underflip.

3. Not Rotating Your Back Foot:
Failure to rotate your back foot inward will prevent the varial heelflip motion and affect the overall flip.

Step-by-Step Approach

1. Setup:
- Feet in kickflip position (front foot near front bolts, back foot on tail).
- Shoulders wound up.

2. Kickflip Motion:
- Kick your front foot forward to initiate the kickflip.

3. Varial Heelflip Motion:
- Simultaneously rotate your back foot inward (toward the nose).

4. Rotation:
- The combined motion causes the board to flip 360 degrees horizontally and 90 degrees vertically.

5. Landing:
- Catch the board with your feet stable.

Stories and Lessons

Story 1:
A young skater struggled with the TVarial for weeks. By consistently practicing on a ramp and focusing on his foot placement, he eventually landed it cleanly.
Lesson: Patience and repetition are key in mastering skateboarding tricks.

Story 2:
An experienced skater attempted the TVarial on a flat surface. However, he rushed the trick and missed the catch, resulting in a painful fall.
Lesson: Safety should always be a priority. Practice on ramps initially and gradually progress to flat surfaces.

Story 3:
A skater frequently underflipped the TVarial. After analyzing his technique, he realized he was not kicking his front foot high enough. By adjusting his kick, he was able to achieve the desired rotation.
Lesson: Proper technique is essential for successful skateboarding. Pay attention to details and make adjustments as needed.

Table 1: TVarial Difficulty Rating

Table 2: TVarial Learning Curve

Table 3: TVarial Injury Risk

Conclusion

The TVarial is a challenging yet rewarding skateboarding trick that requires precision, timing, and dedication. By practicing consistently, focusing on proper technique, and avoiding common mistakes, skaters can progress through the learning curve and unlock this impressive flip trick. Remember to prioritize safety and enjoy the journey of mastering skateboarding.