See what’s hot this year at the Winter X Games in Snowmass, CO…

Eisenbergs Skatepark
www.eisenbergs.com

930 East 15th Street
Plano, TX 75074-5851
(972) 509-7725

Eisenbergs Skatepark opened in July 1997 and started a skatepark revolution. Built by the family of X Games Gold Medalist Arlo Eisenberg. Eisenbergs was one of the first skateparks designed to be family and spectator friendly with amenities that include a full scale retail shop, concessions, and an arcade.

Eisenbergs Skatepark was designed for beginners, intermediate, and pro-level skaters and bikers, making it possible for both younger and older generations of participants to develop their skills. Since it’s inception, Eisenbergs’ format has been imitated hundreds of time, but never duplicated. Through innovation and imagination Eisenbergs stays ahead of the curve with constantly evolving events, camps, and other programs.

With over 30,000 square feet of fun Eisenbergs Skatepark was designed by pros, for pros and beginners. Skater memorabilia is displayed throughout the facility, which is open 7 days a week. We also offer several Party Packages, Live Concerts, and host the Annual Texas Showdown at The Hoedown.

Hours and Pricing
Open everyday 10am until 9pm session prices from $8 to $16

The 180° ollie is the natural thing to learn after your basic ollie. I didn’t really realise this until recently so I’ve spent a long time learning to kickflip instead. However, having discovered the 180° ollie I’ve spent a lot of time practicing this.

The trick seems self-explanatory but is more accurately described if split into frontside and backside 180° ollies. The direction of the 180° turn has such a big effect on how the trick is executed as to make these basically completely separate tricks. A frontside ollie involves turning your front to the direction of travel (and then continuing the spin). For me, as a goofy footed individual, this means turning to the right. You turn the opposite way for a backside ollie.

Unlike the other tricks I have learnt so far, I believe it is best to start learning both of the 180° ollie variations on the move. It is also far easier in my experience to have a small obstacle to ollie up and onto. A kerb is perfect. You will know straight away which direction you feel more comfortable turning in – probably backside. A backside ollie is far, far easier than a frontside ollie.

Before you try this, if you need more help with your normal ollie please check out the article about ollies.

Backside Ollie
You may know that I used the nosestall as an intermediary step towards learning to ollie on the move. In the case of a 180° ollie, I used the axle stall…

Air to Fakie involves turning 180 degrees in the air and then riding backwards after the turn. This Snowboarding Trick is a great way of preparing yourself to get used to moving on air. This will also give you a basic idea of what it feels like to do aerial maneuvers. In this section, learn how to perform an Air to Fakie:

1. Find a gentle slope with as little human traffic as possible. Start riding straight downhill on moderate speed.

2. To initiate the turn, twist your hips and shoulders towards the direction of the spin. Crouch down and remember to shift your weight on your back foot.

3. Lift your board – nose first and then the tail. Try to maintain your balance while doing this.

4. Jump and turn 180 degrees.

5. After the turn, land both feet at the same time. This is to divide the impact and lessen the chance of slipping when you land.

6. Ride fakie after the turn. Repeat the steps and keep on practicing until you get comfortable in turning in midair and riding backwards.

Air to Fakie is one of the Snowboarding Tricks that you must know should you wish to try other aerial stunts. This is a good exercise to fine-tune your movements and make yourself comfortable in doing spins on the air. With enough practice and determination to learn, you will eventually manage to perform other advanced tricks.