How To Laid-Out Backflip

A Laid-Out Backflip is an impressive looking trick that is relatively easy when you have the right progression. This tutorial shows you how you can start stomping them this Winter season!

For even more great off-axis spin snowboard tutorials, check out the Snowboard Tutorial Membership.

(Narrating: Nev Lapwood. Riding: Chase Baines. Film/Edit: Vince Emond. Filmed At: Whistler Blackcomb & Whistler Bounce)

On The Tramp

Like most inverted tricks, aerial awareness is highly important and getting used to Backflips on a trampoline is a great way to build the correct air awareness.

• A trampoline will help you get the feeling for flipping backwards and spotting your landing while upside down.
• It also helps you understand how extending and tucking in your body can slow down and speed up rotation.

The main difference in learning the Laid-Out Backflip is the arching of your back when initiating the flip. This requires you to push out with your hips as you swing your arms into the flip.

Arching your back will place your head in the proper position to spot the ground earlier, making it easier to land.

On Snow

As you ride up the take off, your shoulders should be open with your chest pointing forward towards the lip of the jump.

Do this early on your approach, opening your shoulders at the last second before you pop can initiate spin as you flip backwards.

Make sure to keep your base as flat as possible, not putting too much weight on either edge. From here the flip can be broken down into four steps:

1. Bend your knees as you ride up the lip
2. Start to lean slightly towards your tail
3. Pop up with both feet evenly
4. Then swing your arms up and back

Your style will sky rocket, we promise.

Be sure to use a strong pop as you initiate the backward swing with your arms and upper body. Just like the trampoline, pushing out with your hips will help you arch your back and lets your head lead the flip.

Flip Direction

The direction of the flip will be backwards over your Tail, but also slightly towards your heel edge. This slight turn in axis actually makes it easier to come out regular, because your front foot will naturally want to swing forward at the end of the flip.

Send er' bud!

If you end up going too deep, this swinging motion of the front foot can send you into a late backside 180. When you pull your legs toward the ground, bend forward at the hips. This keeps you in a crouched position on landing, with pressure on your toe edge.

Houston, the eagle has landed.

That's it! Everything laid out for you to stomp this trick. A Laid-Out Backflip feels incredible and everybody loves to see them. Now that you know the progression to the Laid-Out Backflip, start stomping them today!

Want Even More Training Tips?

Alex McCann 
Snowboard Addiction
Our Goal Is To Improve Your Riding