Olympic snowboarding tricks, explained

Key Concepts

• Rotation: The fundamental basis of many tricks, measured in degrees (180, 360, 1440, 1800 etc.).
• Cork: An off-axis rotation, adding complexity beyond horizontal spinning.
• Switch: Riding with the non-dominant foot forward.
• Grab: Holding the board with one or two hands during a trick.
• Named Tricks: Tricks often named after the first athlete to successfully land them.
• Spin Combinations: Complex tricks built from combinations of rotations, corks, grabs, and switch stances.

Understanding Freestyle Skiing & Snowboarding Rotations

The video breaks down the terminology used to describe complex rotations in freestyle skiing and snowboarding, focusing on how these elements combine to create increasingly difficult and high-scoring tricks. The core concept revolves around understanding rotations as multiples of 360 degrees. A 180 represents a half rotation, while a 360 signifies a full rotation. Riders continually build upon these base rotations, progressing beyond 1440 (four full rotations) and even reaching 1800 rotations.

Defining Rotational Elements & Complexity

Beyond simple rotations, the video introduces the concept of a cork. A cork is defined as a spin that is not horizontal – meaning the rider is rotating around an axis other than a straight vertical line. This adds a significant layer of difficulty and visual complexity to the trick. The video highlights that riders intentionally dip their heads and shoulders during corked rotations to increase both the difficulty and stylistic flair of the maneuver. Performing two corks within a single jump results in a double cork.

Stance & Grabs: Adding Layers to Tricks

The video explains how a rider’s stance contributes to trick complexity. Switch refers to riding with the non-dominant foot forward, essentially riding “backwards.” This adds a challenge as it requires the rider to adjust their balance and control. Furthermore, the inclusion of a grab – holding the board with one or two hands during the rotation – is another element that increases difficulty and style.

Trick Nomenclature & Examples

The video provides specific examples of trick naming conventions. A trick is often described by combining its rotational elements, stance, and grab. For instance, a "switch left triple cork 1800 lead mute" indicates a trick performed switch, rotating three and a half times (1800 degrees) with a corked rotation, and incorporating a "lead mute" grab (grabbing the toe edge between the feet). Another example given is a "backside double cork 1440 nose grab," demonstrating a double corked rotation of 1440 degrees performed backside with a nose grab. The video also mentions the "zero spin screaming seaman" as a trick that doesn't involve any rotational spin.

Historical Context & Athlete Influence

The video acknowledges the influence of pioneering athletes on trick development. It specifically cites Shaun White as an example, noting that he landed the first double McTwist 1260 at the Olympics in 2010. This illustrates how tricks are often named after the first individuals to successfully execute them, solidifying their legacy within the sport.

Scoring & Competitive Application

The video concludes by emphasizing the importance of precise execution in achieving high scores in competitive freestyle events. Mastering these rotations, corks, grabs, and stances is crucial for success in disciplines like slope style, halfpipe, aerials, and big air. The implication is that a clean, well-executed trick, combining multiple elements, will be rewarded with significantly higher scores.