How to Do a 180 Off a Curb

The 180 is one of the most fundamental tricks that someone can perform while skateboarding, BMX biking or rollerblading. The move can be performed on flat land, on a vertical track such as a half pipe or even off a curb. Learning how to perform a 180 is an important step toward accumulating a bag of tricks, as many tricks can be performed during a 180 to add a little extra flare and style.

Things You'll Need

  • Skateboard, BMX bike or rollerblades
  • Curb
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Instructions

  1. Skateboard

    • 1

      Approach the curb at a comfortable speed on an angle so that the front of your body is facing the street.

    • 2

      Press down on the tail of the skateboard while simultaneously sliding your front foot forward to pop up and off the lip of the curb.

    • 3

      Rotate your shoulders and your hips 180 degrees in the direction you wish to turn while keeping your feet on the board. For most skaters, turning "backside," or with your back facing outwards during the turn, is more comfortable and easier to perform.

    • 4

      Bend your knees as you land to absorb some of the impact.

    BMX Bike

    • 5

      Approach the curb at a comfortable speed on an angle that will allow you to turn in the direction you are comfortable with. For instance, if you wish to turn towards the left in your 180, you should approach the curb on the right hand side, and vice versa.

    • 6

      Plant your feet firmly on the pedals and push off while lifting the bike up by the handlebars as you reach the lip of the curb.

    • 7

      Rotate your shoulders while keeping your arms and legs stiff, spinning the bike 180 degrees.

    • 8

      Bend your knees with the landing. Since you will now be moving backwards, begin to turn the front wheel opposite the direction in which you wish to turn around, press down on the outside pedal and swing your bike around to set it forward again. (See Reference 1)

    Rollerblades

    • 9

      Approach the curb at a comfortable speed at an angle.

    • 10

      Crouch down and jump up as you reach the edge of the curb.

    • 11

      Rotate your shoulders and hips 180 degrees while you're still in the air.

    • 12

      Bend your knees as you land and spin around to face forward again.