Trick Instructional - Heelside 360
by Ben Morgan
Without a doubt, one of the most popular tricks you can do on a wakeboard is a 360. This is for good reason. There is almost no limit to what can be added to a 360. You can poke it, slob it, indy it, stiffy it or even invert it. That is why you see so many pro riders doing it so many different ways. But before you can throw a boned out slob 360 like Shaun Murray or Greg Nelson, you had better get a good firm understanding of how to do a basic wake to wake 360.
I recently ran into Shawn Akers from the Boarding School in Ferris, Texas and asked him if he would give us the low down on how to throw a 360. Shawn broke it up into 3 parts; the approach, the spin and the landing.
Step 1 - To start a heelside 360, begin with a moderate to progressive cut toward the wake from about 7 to 10 feet out. As you approach the wake crouch down slightly so you will be able to pop off the wake. When you begin to near the top of the wake start to stand as tall as possible so you can receive maximum pop from the wake.
Step 2 - Once you are in the air, you need to wait until you are at the height of your jump to begin your rotation. To start the rotation, look over your leading shoulder and begin to pass the handle. Place the handle at the small of your back and grab it with your free hand. Be sure to keep your board flat and your body in line so you do not get off your axis. As you come around, keep your head turned so you will be ready for the landing.
Step 3 - As you begin to come down for the landing, try to spot the water early. Keep your knees slightly bent and the handle low. When you land on the water it is a good idea to be just slightly on your heel side edge. This will keep you from catching your front edge and smacking your face.
Once you get your basic 360 down, try throwing in a grab such as a slob or indy. Be creative with your spinning. There is an endless array of stuff that can be added to give more style and technicality to your spinning.
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