Learning a new sport and getting ready for it can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. If you are trying to prepare for an upcoming snowboarding trip, you’ve come to the right place. Here, you will learn all the essential things a beginner should remember. Aside from packing the proper gear and apparel, preparing your mental and physical health is vital too.
Before you feel discouraged, remember that all professional snowboarders started as beginners too. It would take some time before you get the hang of it. The first thing you need to know is the basic form and how to pick the proper board. With enough practice and patience, you will be able to enjoy snowboarding like a pro.
Get the Right Snowboard
Most people think that snowboards are all the same. But the truth is, there are different snowboards to choose from. Each type of snowboard can give a different riding experience. Beginners should opt for boards with rocker camber.
The rocker is in between the feet, allowing you to learn how to turn easily. Meanwhile, the camber helps the board to edge dig as you make a turn. This combination is excellent for learning to ride and keeps you safe from catching your edge.
Check Your Gear
The most important thing to remember in choosing your gear is that it should fit just right. Snowboarding with unfitted gear can put you at risk of injuries. We are not only talking about your boots and your headgear but your entire apparel as well. For your reference, listed below are the things to wear in snowboarding:
- Long underwear
- Goggles
- Helmet
- Mittens or gloves
- Bibs or branded ski or snowboard pants
- Snowboarding jackets
- Wool top
- Neck gaiter
- Snowboard socks
Take a Snowboarding Lesson
For safety purposes, it would be wiser to take a snowboarding lesson before your trip. Snowboard lessons will teach you the fundamentals of riding a snowboard and give you the confidence to ski in the mountains. Instructors will teach you how to ride and how to turn. They will also provide you some tips on how to maneuver safely. Taking a snowboarding lesson is a worthy investment. It will give you an insight into what to expect while riding and train you to become a better snowboarder.
Follow All Safety Guidelines
Before riding your board, read all the safety guidelines as instructed by the resort. Remember that you are not the only beginner in the area, so you will most likely bump with new snowboarders. The guidelines provided by the resort will ensure that you and everyone on the premises are safe at all times.
Things to Remember While Snowboarding
Once you’re ready to go, there are a few things to remember to make your snowboarding experience enjoyable. Listed below are some tips to consider as you ride the board:
Always look forward
One of the common mistakes committed by snowboarders is getting distracted and losing focus. In snowboarding, your body and board will naturally follow where your eyes are looking. For example, keep looking down; chances are you’re going to fall and trip.
To avoid this, always look forward. Keep your eyes locked to where you want to go and stay focused. However, don’t forget to be mindful of your surroundings. Check if anyone is approaching your direction from time to time.
Bend your knees
It will be easier for you to turn and control your board if you are bending. Slightly bending the knees is a basic form that all snowboarders must practice. Riding with straight legs will make it hard for you to maneuver; it’s also one of the reasons why new snowboarders get injured.
Ride across the slope
Over time, you will learn the techniques to ride and avoid losing control properly. One of the most important tips to remember is to not board in one straight line, especially if you are going down the mountain.
The key is to ride across the slope. This means that you have to ride from the right to the left, then back to the right and left again. Riding this way will help you stay in control, making the ride slower and safer for you.
Be patient and avoid rushing
It’s understandable that you want to know your limits and push yourself a bit more. But this is not recommended for beginners. Avoid rushing yourself. The first thing that you need to focus on is learning the basics and being in control. Once you know how to the fundamentals of snowboarding, gradually add small tricks to your moves.
Have fun
Lastly, enjoy the moment, appreciate the scenery, and have a good time. For some people, snowboarding is a sport that they need to practice. But if you are beginning, it’s better to have fun and enjoy the ride.
Generally, many beginners feel overwhelmed and unsure about their snowboarding skills- which is pretty normal. However, don’t forget that even professional snowboarders began their journey just like you. All you need to do is to practice and be patient about it.