Tips on getting used to using z-air?

[xmisosoupx]

well i feel that i am a pretty solid TL player... i feel a little frustrated because its been really hard for me to introduce z-air into my game. i feel that if i am able to use z-air it would really improve my game and i would come even closer to the TL gods (aka santi) any tips on how i could introduce z-air into my game? atm i am using nair as a sub for zair.

-Miso

[Sasuke the Sheik Main]

Just play a match using only Zair.
Then you'll understand how to use it a little more I suppose.

[xmisosoupx]

haha thanks ill try that tomorrow in my smash bros club at school >:3

-Miso

[vanderzant]

Yeah do what Sasuke said. Once you learn the spacing, zair can be applied in almost every situation.

Actually better yet, play a real match with only zair and follow up moves (nair, tilts, bombthrow, more zair) when you land the move.

[F00LY]

I had the same problem until recently, what Sasuke said is pretty much what I had to do. That and go into training mode just to get the feel for it. Practice on all different height characters, too. Sometimes you're better off against a Marth or a taller character releasing it a little earlier to guarantee the strike, when others like MK or Kirby the timing is more precise for their smaller frame.

Also make sure to practice it with holding bombs. At first I started doing it just by itself, but then found it more difficult to remember to time it with a bomb out.

[Darktemplio]

well, instead of straight up z-air, try short hopping to air dodge and wait about half a sec and then press the c-stick. thats how i do it and it took me about 3 or 4 matches to get used to it. prolly because since i use the c-stick it feels like im going to fair except while holding L. its usually a good retreating move.

[Ginger_Warrior]

Try playing a game where you perform a Zair every other attacking move. You learn to use Zair, and mix it in with others moves depending on the situation, but you don't overcompensate.

[QUIVO]

Airdodging before zair can be good, but it's easy for your opponents to read. IMO, it's probably the easiest way to space with it.

Just keep on using it in your gameplay and you'll eventually be able to incorporate it probably. Make sure to mix it up though. Airdodge > Zair, Airodge > Zair w/ bomb, straight up zair, mixed follow ups, etc

[flyingcow989]

Just play a match using only Zair.
Then you'll understand how to use it a little more I suppose.

This helped me out a lot. I would also suggest playing smaller opponents like Ness and Pikachu. THey will be a lot harder to zair and you will need to be more precise.