Wakeboarding is an exciting water sport that combines elements of surfing, water skiing, and snowboarding. Many wakeboarders dream of landing their first flip. Flips are among the most impressive tricks in wakeboarding, but they can also be intimidating. The key is to start with the easiest flip and build up your confidence and technique before moving on to more advanced maneuvers.
The easiest flip on a wakeboard is generally considered to be the Tantrum. It is a backflip-style trick that follows a natural progression from basic wake jumps. In this article, we will break down the Tantrum step by step, explain why it is the best first flip to learn, and provide useful tips to help you land it successfully.
What Makes A Flip Easy?
Before attempting any wakeboard flip, it’s important to understand what makes a flip easier or harder to perform. The factors that influence difficulty include:
Takeoff Technique – Some flips require complex edging and rotational movements, while others use a natural pop off the wake.
Body Position – Keeping the body controlled and compact makes flips easier to land.
Landing Mechanics – The easier flips allow the rider to spot their landing early and adjust accordingly.
Required Speed & Height – Tricks that require less speed and height off the wake tend to be easier for beginners.
The Tantrum meets all of these criteria, making it the ideal first flip for wakeboarders.
What Is A Tantrum?
The Tantrum is a backflip-style trick where the rider flips backward over the wake. It is similar to a backflip on a trampoline but uses the wake’s edge for momentum. The move is performed by approaching the wake on a strong edge, then releasing into a trip-flip motion, where the rider turns their shoulders away from the boat before flipping backward.
Why Is The Tantrum The Easiest Flip?
Natural Body Movement – The backward flipping motion is easier to execute than twisting flips like the front roll.
Clear Spotting – The rider can see the water early in the rotation, making it easier to land.
Simple Takeoff – The takeoff uses a “trip flip” technique, where the rider releases edge tension to initiate the flip.
Required Speed & Height – Unlike front rolls or spins, the Tantrum does not require complex handle movements.
How to Perform a Tantrum
1. Start with the Basics
Before attempting a Tantrum, you should be comfortable with the following:
- Strong progressive edge into the wake
- Consistent wake-to-wake jumps
- The ability to pop off the wake with control
2. Approach the Wake Correctly
Begin outside the wake, about 10–15 feet.
Take a gradual progressive edge toward the wake.
Just before hitting the wake, flatten your board by releasing your edge.
Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight balanced.
3. Initiate the Flip
As you reach the top of the wake, throw your shoulders back like you would for a backflip.
Keep the handle close to your leading hip to maintain balance.
Look up and back to start the rotation.
4. Tuck and Rotate
As you leave the wake, tuck your knees slightly to speed up rotation.
Keep your eyes focused on the horizon to avoid over-rotating.
Use your arms to control balance but do not pull on the handle too much.
5. Spot the Landing
As you rotate past halfway, look for the water to prepare for landing.
Extend your legs slightly to absorb the impact.
Keep the handle close to your body to stay in control.
6. Stick the Landing
Land with your knees bent to absorb shock.
Keep your board pointed slightly in the direction of the boat.
Ride away cleanly and keep your weight balanced.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
1. Not Releasing the Edge Properly
Problem: If you hold your edge too long, you may not get the right pop.
Fix: Flatten your board just before launching off the wake.
2. Throwing the Flip Too Hard
Problem: Over-rotating or flipping too aggressively.
Fix: Focus on a controlled pop rather than throwing yourself backward.
3. Letting Go of the Handle Too Soon
Problem: Losing control in mid-air.
Fix: Keep the handle close to your lead hip throughout the flip.
4. Not Spotting the Landing
Problem: Over-rotating or under-rotating.
Fix: Look for the water as you pass the halfway point of the rotation.
Progressing from The Tantrum
Once you have mastered the Tantrum, you can move on to more advanced wakeboard flips, such as:
Tantrum to Fakie – Adding a 180-degree spin to land switch.
Backroll – A sideways flip instead of a straight backflip.
Toe-side Front Roll – A forward flip variation for more technical progression.
Final Tips for Learning Your First Flip
Practice on a Trampoline – Doing backflips on a trampoline can help with air awareness.
Use a Wakeboard Coach – Having a trained coach or experienced wakeboarder to guide you makes learning easier.
Start Small – Try small backflips off a kicker before attempting them on the wake.
Stay Relaxed – Tensing up can cause poor takeoff and control issues.
Be Patient – Learning flips takes time, so celebrate small improvements along the way.
Conclusion
The Tantrum is the easiest flip to learn on a wakeboard because of its natural movement, simple takeoff, and clear landing visibility. By practicing strong wake jumps, using proper technique, and focusing on controlled execution, you can successfully land your first wakeboard flip. Once you master the Tantrum, it opens the door to more advanced tricks and variations. Stay consistent, practice safely, and enjoy the thrill of flipping on a wakeboard!
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- What Happens When You Fall on A Wakeboard
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