Skateboarding has become an increasingly popular sport over the past few decades, with new tricks and techniques constantly being developed. The sport has come a long way from its origins as a pastime for surfers on the West Coast of the United States – today, it is a global phenomenon enjoyed by millions of people.
One of the most impressive and difficult tricks in skateboarding is the 900 – a two-and-a-half revolution spin in the air that requires a great deal of skill, practice, and courage to achieve. In this article, we will explore the origins of the 900, examine the technical details of the trick, and offer some tips and advice for skateboarders who are looking to master it. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there is something to learn about this iconic maneuver.
The History and Significance of the 900 in Skateboarding
The 900 is a legendary skateboard trick that has become an iconic symbol of skateboarding prowess. The trick involves jumping up into the air and spinning 900 degrees (or two and a half rotations) before landing back on the board. Originally invented by Tony Hawk, one of the most influential skateboarders of all time, the 900 was first landed by him in 1999 at the X Games, which was a watershed moment for the sport.
The significance of the 900 lies in its extreme level of difficulty and the immense skill and athleticism required to pull it off. Only a handful of skaters in the world have ever successfully landed the trick, which has made it a coveted achievement in the skateboarding community. The 900 has also helped to push the boundaries and evolution of the sport, inspiring skaters to push themselves to new heights and innovate with new tricks and techniques.
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Mastering the Basics: Prerequisites for Attempting a 900
Before attempting a 900, it is essential to have a solid foundation in the fundamentals of skateboarding. These include knowing how to properly push, turn, and stop on a skateboard. A skater should also be comfortable riding at high speeds, carving on ramps, and performing basic tricks such as ollies, kickflips, and heelflips.
Additionally, it is crucial to have a good sense of balance and control. A skater must be able to maintain their composure while in the air and adjust their weight distribution accordingly. It is recommended to spend ample time practicing these basic skills before attempting a 900, as doing so will greatly increase the likelihood of success and reduce the risk of injury.
The Art of Spinning: How to Build up Enough Momentum
The art of spinning is an essential skill for skateboarding, especially when it comes to pulling off a 900. Building up enough momentum is crucial to execute such a challenging trick. Begin by building up your speed on your board and pumping your arms to create momentum before you attempt the 900. Make sure to keep your center of gravity low and maintain your balance as you perform the trick.
Another way to build up momentum is to use the ramp’s potential energy to your advantage. Utilize the ramp’s lip to push yourself higher and land with enough speed to complete the 900. Practice your spins on other ramps and slopes to perfect your timing and get a better understanding of how to generate enough momentum to complete the 900. Overall, the art of spinning takes a lot of practice, patience, and perseverance. But with the right techniques and mindset, mastering the 900 can be an achievable feat.
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Airborne: Tips for Proper Takeoff and Landing
Skateboarding is a sport that requires mastering the art of being airborne. Getting off the ground and landing safely is essential to performing any trick, especially the 900. Proper takeoff and landing are crucial to execute this move perfectly.
To achieve a proper takeoff, skateboarders need to ensure that they have a firm base. They should crouch down and compress their body before jumping off the ramp. As they push off, skateboarders should try and stay centered, keeping their body weight centered over the board. While in the air, they need to twist their body in the desired direction and try and maintain balance. Landing is equally important. Skateboarders need to brace themselves for the impact and keep their knees bent at the moment of contact. The weight should be distributed evenly over the board’s trucks and all four wheels should make contact with the surface simultaneously.
Skateboarding is all about honing your skills, and proper takeoff and landing are what set top skateboarders apart. With enough determination, practice, and the right techniques, skateboarders can achieve remarkable heights, making the 900 more than just a dream trick.
Coping with Fear and Mental Blocks
Coping with fear and mental blocks is essential for skateboarders who are aiming to achieve a 900. Fear can be a prevalent obstacle in any extreme sport, and skateboarding is no exception. Skaters experience fear in different forms, whether it be the fear of falling or feeling like they are not good enough. Fear can lead to mental blocks that hinder a skater’s progress and prevent them from performing to their full potential.
To cope with fear and mental blocks, skateboarders need to adopt a positive mindset and practice visualization techniques. Visualization involves creating a mental image of the trick and envisioning a successful landing. This technique helps the skater overcome any doubts or negative thoughts that may arise before attempting the trick. Additionally, practicing the trick repeatedly and gradually increasing the level of difficulty can help the skater build confidence and overcome any mental blocks or fear they may have. With practice and a positive mindset, skaters can conquer their fears and achieve their goals in skateboarding.
The Importance of Physical Fitness and Training
Physical fitness and training are crucial for any athlete, especially skateboarders attempting to achieve a 900. Skating requires a lot of energy, endurance, and strength, as well as balance, agility, and coordination. A good training program should focus on developing all these components while also improving flexibility and preventing injuries.
Skaters need to engage in regular cardio and strength training exercises, such as running, biking, weight lifting, and plyometrics, to improve their stamina and power. They also need to incorporate specific skateboarding drills, such as ramps and obstacles, to develop their balance and coordination. Moreover, skaters should pay attention to their nutrition, hydration, and recovery habits to ensure optimal physical and mental performance. By committing to a comprehensive fitness and training regimen, skateboarders can increase their chances of landing a 900 and achieving their full potential as athletes.
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Famous Skateboarders Who Have Successfully Landed a 900.
Famous Skateboarders Who Have Successfully Landed a 900
Landing a 900 is considered one of the greatest achievements in skateboarding. To achieve this feat, it requires pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and a great deal of practice and grit. Tony Hawk made history by being the first person to land a 900 at the 1999 X Games, which propelled him to global fame. He landed the trick again in 2016, at the age of 48, showcasing that age is just a number in skateboarding.
Bob Burnquist also landed a 900 while dropping from a helicopter in 2010, proving that even the sky is not a limit for skateboarders. Other notable skateboarders to have achieved the 900 include, Andy Macdonald, Tom Schaar, Lizzie Armanto, and 12-year-old Gui Khury, who became the youngest person to land a 900 in 2020. The 900 has become a benchmark in skateboarding and continues to inspire skateboarders worldwide to push their limits and hope to achieve the impossible.
Verdict
To sum it up, a 900 in skateboarding is one of the most difficult and impressive tricks a skateboarder can perform. Only a few skaters, including Tony Hawk, have successfully landed this trick. It requires tremendous skill, practice, and bravery to pull it off.
In conclusion, a 900 in skateboarding is an extraordinary feat that requires sheer dedication and passion for the sport. It represents the pinnacle of skateboarding and has become an iconic trick in the skateboarding community. For skateboarders, landing a 900 is not just a display of skill, but also a testament to their commitment and perseverance towards their craft.