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Learn to Snowboard

By User:AllieCashel @timeAndDate(1281379068) Watching some snowboarders ride down the mountain with complete grace and ease often creates the illusion that snowboarding, and learning how to do it, is easy. In reality, however, perfect riding takes some serious practice as well as a few falls. Many people struggle with their balance and turning abilities when they are first learning the sport, but by knowing what to expect and preparing yourself for the challenge, you can make your first ride go much smoother than your neighbors'.  You'll soon realize that mastering the sport is completely worth a fall or two. Take a look at the following guide to help you get through your first day on the slopes.

Prepare Yourself

* '''Determine Your Stance''': There are two basic stances you will have to choose from, regular and goofy. Basically, regular means your left foot is forward and goofy means your right is. According to Snowboard.Lifetips.com, a good way to figure out which you would prefer is to ask yourself how you would run and slide on ice. Whichever for you would slide forward with is the foot you should snowboard forward with. * '''Indoor Practice''': Practicing your stance and balance before you even get out on the snow can help familiarize you with the feel of the board. Strap yourself into your bindings and practice standing with your knees bent and hands out for balance. To test yourself, you can even try rocking back and forth onto each of your edges.

Suit Up

Before you get out onto the hill, make sure that you will be safe, comfortable, and ready to ride.  Though it can be expensive to purchase everything new, proper equipment will make your day. '''Note''': Most ski resorts will require you to have a leash that attaches your binding to your front boot.  This is to prevent injury from runaway boards.

Boards

Your first board should be soft and flexible as this will help you learn how to turn and stop easily. Shorter snowboards with deep side cuts are easy to maneuver, so look for equipment with these characteristics before you head out. Some trusted brands include Forum.  Take a look at the Snowboards Buying Guide for more information. Ask to get your board well tuned (regardless of whether you are renting or buying) before you head out. A bad edge can increase your chances of falling.

Bindings

Boots

The most important factor when you are picking out a boot is that it fits properly and securely encases your foot.  If the one you choose is too comfortable, you run the risk of not having enough support.  You should be able to wiggle your toes around a bit, but the heel check is also key to make sure you have the right fit. With the boot on, lift your heels off the ground: if your heel moves before the boot, it's too big and you should look for something else.  Don't be afraid to ask a salesperson for help with sizing if you're not sure. Most beginners prefer soft boots to hard boots when they first start out, but you'll also want to decide if you want a lace-up or boa boot.  Obviously, something with laces means you're going to have to tie your shoes; some may even have multiple laces, so you'll be able to get pretty precise with your fit.  Boas crank in place so they're amazingly fast to get on, and they're pretty adjustable as well.  It all comes down to how they fit your foot, so you should try on a variety of pairs before you make a purchase. Some trusted brands include Snowboarding Boots Buying Guide for more information.

Other Gear

* Wear a helmet and goggles to protect your head and vision. ** Helmets are normally sized by the circumference of your head (in centimeters) and the measurement can be done at the store. If you're buying a helmet online though, make sure you can return it. All helmets fit differently and you want to find one that is snug, but not uncomfortably tight. Some trusted brands include Snowboarding Helmets Buying Guide for more information. ** Your goggles should have lenses suitable for the conditions you are in. For low light conditions, look for yellow, gold or amber lenses. For bright lights dark tints, like green for example, will help make your eyes more comfortable. Take a look at the Snow Goggles Buying Guide for more information. * You might also consider investing in padded shorts. The first few days can be challenging, and extra padding will help you be ready to go for tomorrow. * Waterproof yourself: you'll want a jacket, and pants and gloves that keep you warm and dry. * Wear long underwear, or layer under your waterproof pants and jacket. * Consider buying toe and hand warmers to make sure you stay extra warm. You'll probably want a scarf or a neck gator, too.

On the Hill

On your first day, most people recommend that you have a professional teach you the basics and then practice on your own. Here are a few tips that will help you during your lesson.  You should also stick to trails that are marked with green circles. These are the easiest trails on the mountain.  If you try to advance too quickly, you are less likely to enjoy your time out on the slopes. * '''Stopping '''is obviously an important skill to learn. To stop, make yourself entirely perpendicular to the hill, preferably facing up the mountain. This prevents you from scraping excess snow off the trail. If you're having trouble with this, however, you can try to make yourself fall. Remember to check to make sure no one is coming towards you and you aren't in anyone's way before you sit down! * '''Falling''' is inevitable for new snowboarders, and even occasionally comes in handy. That said, it's important to know how to fall safety so that you don't hurt yourself. If possible, fall uphill as it will reduce the pressure on your legs and tailbone. If you're falling down, try to relax and roll rather than resisting. * '''Staying Aware ''': It's important to keep your eyes on the trail and the people around you, not on your board. Trails can get very crowded and you need to be able to navigate around other skiers and riders. Remember that the people downhill of you always have the right of way. * '''Bringing a friend '''is a good way to make the learning process more fun than frustrating. If you ride with someone who has also never tried snowboarding, you can laugh together, keep an eye out for each other, and learn from each other's mistakes.

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