We often see experienced snowboarders making smooth turns along steep slopes. On top of that, the pros make the sport look so easy. They float on snow bumps and jump through the air. However, knowing how to reach this level of snowboarding can be overwhelming.
In this article, I suggest a few steps to help you glide effortlessly on the slopes.
WHERE TO LEARN
To learn how to snowboard, there are a few places where you can learn. There are indoor ski slopes offer lessons all year round, while ski resorts are only open in winter when snow covers the ground.
GET BACK IN SHAPE
Your first day of snowboarding will require straightening your body. Getting in shape to facilitate learning and reduce your chances of injuring yourself. Exercises that strengthen your heart will certainly help.
Strengthening the legs and strengthening the arms will also contribute to your success. Beginners are advised to use their arms to hoist themselves out of the snow. Stretching and improving your flexibility will also help you.
EQUIPMENT
While beginners could rent their snowboards, snowboard boots, and helmets, most stores do not offer the rest of the equipment. You will have to buy yours or borrow from a friend. To keep costs down, take a look at ski shops and sporting goods recycling stores selling second-hand clothing and equipment. I would suggest trying men’s and women’s beginner snowboard.
TAKE LESSONS FROM A MONITOR
Register to take your first lessons with a professional snowboard instructor. Unlike friends and family who may not have the patience and skill to guide you, professional snowboard instructors follow methods that make learning easier and safer.
Beginners can take group or private lessons. Group lessons are cheaper, while the most expensive private lessons are for you only.
Many resorts offer packages for beginners that combine a group lesson with the rental and a lift ticket. These are practical options for learning to snowboard.
WALKING WITH A SNOWBOARD
Instructors always start by introducing the equipment. When sitting on level snow, first attach the front foot.
Before you learn to slide, you must learn to walk with your front foot on the snowboard. It is an uncomfortable position. But it is the best way to get on and off chairlifts or to move on flat surfaces.
To move forward, slide the front foot attached to the snowboard and move the free foot forward on the side of the snowboard. To climb a hill, the technique changes. Place the snowboard on the slope (horizontal) with the toes pointing up. By resting on the edge of the toe to gain a foothold on the slope, mount the snowboard uphill.
BODY POSITION
A relaxed and balanced body attitude is necessary for snowboarding. With your feet slightly wider than your shoulders and flexible knee flex, you can apply pressure to the front, back, toes, or heel side of the snowboard. The shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles should be flexible and should not be locked in a straight and stiff position. You may feel like you are about to start a squat exercise.
Most snowboarders leave their arms by their side. During the first lessons, the instructors sometimes ask the students to extend their arms parallel to the snow-covered surface and to the snowboard to help balance.
Without turning your shoulders and hips, place your head in the direction of your destination. Focus your eyes on your destination rather than your snowboard or the snow in front of you.
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