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Freestyle is FPV as self-expression: flowing lines, flips over obstacles and dives down buildings. Tricks build on each other, so learning them in the right order saves you a lot of crashes.
Before you start
- Get comfortable in Acro mode with smooth throttle and low flying.
- Practice each trick in a simulator first.
- Use open space and soft ground while learning.
- Keep turtle mode on a switch.
The progression
1. Flips and rolls
A full stick roll or pitch with a quick throttle blip to keep altitude. Learn to stop at exactly level.
2. Power loop
Fly toward an object, pitch back and add throttle to loop up and over it, then come down behind it. The key is managing throttle at the top of the loop.
3. Split-S
Fly forward, roll inverted, then pull back on pitch to dive and reverse direction. It’s how you turn around and drop down the far side of something.
4. Inverted yaw spin (matty flip foundation)
While inverted, yaw to rotate, then flip back upright. Builds orientation awareness.
5. Dives
Climb above a building or tree, flip over, and fly straight down its face, pulling out before the ground. Start with a high pull-out point and lower it slowly.
6. Juicy flick
A quick roll that reverses direction while flying sideways, often used around a pole or tree.
7. Rubik’s cube and advanced combos
Rapid combinations of rolls, flips and yaw. Learn the parts first, then connect them.
Tips that help every trick
- Throttle management decides whether you hold altitude or fall.
- Look where you want to go. Your thumbs follow your eyes.
- Lower rates while learning a new trick, then raise them later.
- Fly lines, not just tricks. Linking moves smoothly is what makes freestyle look good.
Gear that helps
A tough 5-inch freestyle build with replaceable arms, plus plenty of props. Shop bulk props
Building a trick practice session
A structured session makes progress faster:
- Warm up for one pack with smooth laps and simple flips.
- Focus on one new trick for two or three packs.
- Link the new trick into a line with tricks you already know.
- Cool down with a relaxed pack to end on a good flight.
Common mistakes and fixes
| Trick | Common mistake | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Power loop | Too little throttle at the top | Add throttle earlier, pitch smoothly |
| Split-S | Losing too much height | Start higher, roll faster |
| Dive | Pulling out too late | Pick a higher pull-out point |
| Flips | Not stopping level | Lower rates while learning |
Choosing freestyle spots
Good freestyle spots are open, legal, away from people and have interesting features like trees, abandoned structures (with permission), or terrain. Respect private property and local rules. A great spot is one you can return to safely and legally.
Recording your progress
Record DVR or onboard footage of each session. Watching your flights back shows exactly where your line wobbles or where throttle drops. Compare clips from month to month to see your progress.
Throttle control drills
Most freestyle tricks fail because of throttle. Practice these:
- Throttle hold: fly a full flip while keeping altitude nearly the same.
- Hang time: cut throttle at the top of a climb, float briefly, then catch it smoothly.
- Inverted float: roll inverted, hold briefly with low throttle, and roll back upright.
Linking tricks into a line
A good freestyle line flows from one move to the next:
- Approach a tree low and fast.
- Power loop over it.
- Exit into a split-S down the far side.
- Carry speed into a low orbit around the trunk.
Practice each move alone, then join two, then three.
Freestyle safety rules
- Fly away from people, roads and buildings you don’t have permission to fly near.
- Keep within legal altitude and line of sight with a spotter.
- Inspect your drone after every hard landing.
- Stop flying if you’re tired or frustrated.
Equipment tips for learning tricks
- A durable 5-inch with 6 mm arms survives learning crashes.
- Spare props and arms in your field bag keep sessions going.
- Turtle mode on a switch saves walks to flip the drone.
Fly safe
Never practice tricks over people, roads or private property without permission. Follow local rules on altitude and line of sight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first FPV freestyle trick to learn?
Flips and rolls, followed by the power loop. They teach the throttle control every other trick builds on.
How do I do a power loop?
Fly toward an object, pull back on pitch while adding throttle to loop over it, and manage throttle at the top as you come down behind it.
What is a split-S in FPV?
A maneuver where you roll inverted and pull back on pitch to dive and reverse direction.
Should I learn freestyle tricks in a simulator?
Yes. Practicing in a simulator first saves you from many crashes and broken parts.