Snowboarding Is the Best Winter Sport: How to Get Started.
Are you looking to add some excitement to your winter activities? Well, snowboarding is the perfect way to do it. Not only is snowboarding a great way to stay active and make the most of the snowy season, but it can also help you push your limits and increase your sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re a beginner or well-experienced, snowboarding can be safe, fun and an incredibly freeing experience.
If this is your first time ever snowboarding, then there’s no need to worry – as long as you have the right safety gear, know the basics of the sport, are aware of the weather conditions, and take it easy at first – you can snowboard to your heart’s content. So, read on for some tips on how to get started on your journey of snowboarding bliss!
Snowboarding Basics
Before you go anywhere near the slopes, the most important thing you need to do is understand the basics of snowboarding. First and foremost, you need to know the different types of snowboards. A regular snowboard is ridden “regular”, meaning with your left foot forward. “Goofy” is the opposite of this, with your right foot forward. If you’re a beginner, it can be tricky to decide which to go with, so try both on a flat slope and go with whichever feels most comfortable.
Apart from the type of snowboard, there are a few other basics you need to keep in mind. It’s important to understand the different kinds of turns you can perform, as well as the different kinds of edge pressure and stance you need to be aware of. We’ll go into more detail on these below.
Snowboard Styles and Styles of Riding
Another important concept you need to be aware of is the style of snowboarding. There are several snowboarding styles you can practice, depending on your preference and the type of terrain you’ll be riding. Alpine snowboarding focuses more on speed and carving turns, while freestyle snowboarding is more focused on tricks and jumps. Freeride snowboarding is a mixture of both, often centered around backcountry terrain and moguls.
Aside from the different snowboard styles, you should also know the different styles of riding. One of the most basic style of riding is known as “flat riding”, where you’re mainly just traveling across flat terrain. But if you want to hit the slopes, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with the heel and toe side of your snowboard. The heel side is when your weight is mostly on your back foot, while the toe side places your weight on your front foot. Depending on which side you lean on, your snowboard will turn in a particular direction. This helps you to make turns and eventually carve down a slope.
Snowboard Safety
Most of all, safety should be your priority when it comes to snowboarding. You should always opt for quality gear and make sure you know all of the basics. Proper gear is key to a safe, enjoyable, and most importantly, confidence-building experience. Get yourself a properly-fitted helmet, padded snowboarding pants and jacket with plenty of pockets, and a good pair of waterproof gloves for warmth.
When on the slopes, slow down and take it easy. Don’t ride too fast, and keep a safe distance from other riders. Respect the terrain and be aware of your limits. Finally, take regular breaks and make sure you stay hydrated, as dehydration can be even more dangerous during cold weather.
Snowboarding: Where to Go
Now that you know the ins and outs of snowboarding, you’re probably wondering where to go! Well, resorts generally offer the best snow, as well as a huge variety of trails and surfaces to enjoy. Freestyle parks are great for those looking for fun jumps, rails, and boxes to perform tricks on.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more backcountry experience, then you should look for unmarked terrain. There’s plenty of untouched snow out there that’s perfect for some off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Snowboard Lessons and Where to Find them
If you’re still new to snowboarding, then it can be a good idea to look for organized snowboarding lessons. There are countless instructors out there who can offer you advice on the proper techniques and can help make sure you stay safe. You can usually find these instructors in or near resorts, or by doing a quick online search.
Have Fun and Enjoy the Ride
At the end of the day, snowboarding is all about having a good time while testing your own limits. With the right safety gear, knowledge of the sport, and respect for the terrain, you can enjoy hours of peaceful rides down the slopes and have endless fun along the way. So now that you know the basics of snowboarding and where to go, all that’s left is to get out there and shred some powder!
Snowboarding Is the Best Winter Sport: How to Get Started.