Learn a Side Flip on the Trampoline
The side flip is a funky trick to learn on the trampoline, because there aren't many progressions for it. In episode 12 of the Tramp Series, Coach Aidan takes you through the two steps that build it, then the full side flip, first without skis and then with tramp skis on.
Step 1: Roll to Your Side
Start by rolling to your side. Imagine a pole going straight through your body and rotate around it, almost like a cartwheel. Practice it in both directions. On this first progression you will travel across the trampoline, and that's fine.
Step 2: Pop Up, Then Go Sideways
Next, do almost the same thing in the center of the trampoline. Instead of just rolling to the side, pop up first and then go to the side. This builds a good takeoff for the real trick, and you won't travel as far across the bed.
Step 3: Add Rotation and Go to Your Feet
Now add a little more rotation each time, going further onto your side instead of landing on your back. Once you're comfortable and ready, it's time to go to your feet. Have a friend there to mat you for your first attempts.
Keep Looking Forward
The key to a true side flip is being able to look forward the whole time. If your eyes stay forward through the whole flip, you're rotating on that cartwheel side flip axis. In the video, Aidan keeps his eyes on the camera from takeoff to landing.
Add Your Tramp Skis
Do a bunch of side flips without skis before you put them on. Skis make a bit of a difference and give the trick a more realistic feel for on snow, so get the movement solid first.
Why Side Flips Matter for Off-Axis Tricks
The side flip shows up in almost every off-axis rotation. On a cork 7 you rotate in, add a little side flip, then twist out back to your feet. A misty is a 90, a side flip and another 90. Learn the side flip on the trampoline and you'll have the building block for a lot of off-axis skiing.
Ready to take it further? Learn how off-axis spins work in Understanding Off-Axis Rotation, then put your side flip to use with Taking Your Misty's From Tramp To Snow and How To Cork 360 & 540. Need a pair for practice at home? Check out the DOLLO Tramp Skis Pro.
