Snowboarding can be fun, and it can be a challenge. But if you want to enjoy all the benefits of riding a snowboard without giving it a try, you need to learn some tricks.
In this post, I'll teach you the basics of snowboarding, and I'll give you tips for how to make your experience on the slopes more enjoyable. Once you've got the hang of things, you'll have an amazing time on the mountain.
I hope you'll enjoy this post, and that it helps you find the fun you're looking for.
STEP 1: Learn to Ski, Skate, and/or Snowboard
Even if you know nothing about snowboarding, you're still able to enjoy snowboarding. So learning to ski or skate can greatly enhance your experience. I recommend starting with skiing because it's the most traditional form of snowboarding.
After you've mastered skiing or skating, then you can start to learn snowboarding. A typical beginner's progression would be as follows:
Skate to ski
Skate to snowboard
Snowboard to surf
But you might want to check out the links below to see which method works best for you. And remember that you don't have to limit your progression to only one kind of sport. You can combine skiing and snowboarding, for instance.
STEP 2: Buy Your First Snowboard and Go Out and Explore
Once you've decided on your preferred method of transportation, it's time to get out and explore. Find a park with plenty of terrain, and choose a spot where you'll be able to go over all sorts of obstacles.
It's best to practice while the conditions are fresh and the slope isn't too icy. Even if the snow is cold, make sure you wear a hat and gloves to protect yourself from the elements.
When you're done exploring, return your board to your car and drive home.
STEP 3: Improve Your Balance
One of the most important factors in snowboarding is balance. You must learn how to manage your board, and you need to practice every day.
The best way to improve your balance is to try standing on one foot. Stand on one foot for five seconds, then quickly switch to the other foot. Repeat this for 20 minutes every day.
Other balance exercises you can do include getting on your toes, doing jumping jacks, and dancing.
STEP 4: Add in the Advanced Skills
At this point, you've learned the basic moves. Now you're ready to start practicing some tricks. Here are some of the most important tricks to master:
Slide
Tilt
Switch
Twist
Pivot
Drop
As you can see, each trick has several variations. Practice each variation as often as possible, but make sure to pick the easiest one. For example, if you're trying to learn how to drop, the best choice would be the one with the least number of tricks.