SNOWBOARDING
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Strapping into your bindings for your first run of the season or for your very first time is equally exciting. Snowboarding is a relatively new sport compared to skiing’s long history, but its certainly gained popularity quickly and it’s easy to see why! It’s winter’s answer to surfing, except you’re riding powder, rather than waves. Experienced snowboarders will tell you that it provides a rush like no other and, if you’re after adventure, you can’t leave the snow without trying it out – even if you usually ski. If you’re a regular snowboarder looking to take on a new challenge, make sure you check out the resorts that offer jumps and long runs. For beginners, don’t be daunted by not using poles, as skiers do, to make turns, it’s all about how you move and you’ll soon pick it up after a few lessons. So strap in and get out there, our snow is waiting for you!
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SNOWBOARDING TIPS
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Here are some essential tips for inexperienced snowboarders to help you make the most of you time on the mountain.
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TIP 1
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Even before you hire your snowboard, the first thing you will need to do is figure out which stance is most comfortable for you. Left foot forward is ‘natural’ or ‘regular’ and right foot forward is called ‘goofy’. Which doesn’t necessarily mean you’re uncoordinated!
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TIP 2
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Always strap into your board on a flat area. Sit down and tighten your bindings, then you can stand up and get a feel for the board. Lean forwards and backwards, bend your knees and crouch.
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TIP 3
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You’ll need to learn to skate to get on and off the chairlifts, to do this you’ll need to unstrap one foot from your bindings and use it to propel yourself forward – just like a skateboarder. Try to get comfortable with this before you actually head to the lifts.
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TIP 4
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You’ll need to learn the ‘falling leaf’ to help you down the slope without going straight down at warp speed. The best way to learn this is to put both your arms out to your sides and turn your head in the direction you’d like to go. Where your head turns, your body will follow.
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TIP 5
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Learning to stop is probably the most comforting technique for a beginner to master. To stop, bring the board perpendicular to the mountain and push the snowboard edge into the snow using either your toes or your heels, depending on which direction you’re facing.
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