How to Do a Back Flip on Skis

One of the most difficult and impressive tricks on alpine or telemark skis is the back flip.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ski Clothing
• Ski Equipment
• Skis

1. Find a ramp-type jump that will shoot you slightly less than vertical into the air.

2. Approach the jump with speed.

3. Tilt your head back so that you are looking skyward the moment you take off.

4. Keep your head tilted back and kick your feet and skis upward so that they end up above your head.

5. Tuck your knees to your chest in midair to rotate faster.

6. Look for the ground as you rotate so that you can anticipate when you are going to land.

7. Land the back flip standing tall, and then absorb the impact of the landing by bending at the knees and ankles.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice back flips on a trampoline or diving board first to get a feel for the motion.
• Try the back flip without the clutter of poles the first few times.
• Skiing is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

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on 11/22/2005 The first time I tried to do a back flip, I just threw my head back and landed on my neck. If you jump off the jump like a trampoline and then do it, you can get all the way around. It feels just like doing it on a trampoline. My second try, I landed it!