ou can perform several tricks while freestyle boarding, including turns, flips and jumps. One of the harder tricks to master is the cork 5, which is a 540-degree off-axis rotation in the air. This move requires a lot of practice because you can injure yourself if isn't executed properly.
Identification
In snowboarding, an off-axis rotation is known as a “corked” or “cork.” According to the ABC of Snowboarding website, the number 5 is synonymous with 540, so the proper term for a cork 5 is a cork or corked 540. The number 540 denotes the number of degrees in the rotation before landing. Some skiers and snowboarders refer to a cork or corked 540 as a misty 540.
Practice
Before trying a cork 540, you should have some familiarity with corked moves. Also, you should have executed a cork 360 at least before trying the 540. A cork 540 is much more complicated than a cork 360. One of the easiest ways to practice a cork 540 is on a trampoline. Trampolines allow you the ability to gain air without the danger of falling incorrectly on the snow or ice. Once you execute a proper cork 540 on the trampoline, you’ll be ready to try it in the snow on your snowboard.
Executing a Cork 540
Make a small or medium bounce on the trampoline while reaching toward your left foot with your right arm. This should cause you to land on your bottom with your right arm still extended out toward your left toe. Add a little more force each time you attempt this while dropping your right shoulder down more.
Get a large bounce and put your right arm straight up in the air. As the trampoline pushes you up for your second bounce, thrust your arm in front of you and then down toward your left toe. Push the upper half of your body forward while looking over your left shoulder. Draw your feet up as high as you can, keeping them as close together as possible. Take hold of your left ankle with your right hand and hold this position as long as possible. Lift up your head and hands and spread your legs shoulder-width apart to land.
Concerns
When you are practicing, ensure that you get enough space between you and the trampoline before trying the maneuvers because you can get injured if you land during the maneuver. Do not try a corked 540 in the snow until you have perfected it on the trampoline.
Posted in: Snowboarding