How to Become a Snowboarder

Snowboarding Basics

Okay, so you’ve played enough snowboarding video games that you could be considered an expert by now, but you’ve never actually hit the slopes. Sure, it seems easy to press “A” and “X” and stroll your way down an incredibly daunting virtual hill, but now you want to go the extra mile – actually snowboarding! If you’ve gained an interest in snowboarding but have no idea how to get started, or are even nervous about taking that first leap into an entirely new hobby, this article is for you.

First, you should know your snowboarding equipment.

You’ll need a board, boots, bindings, and the appropriate winter gear for being out in the cold. Do a little bit of research and, if possible, try to buy some used equipment for less money. You don’t necessarily want to make a huge investment up front if you’re not even sure you like the sport yet.

When you’re looking for snowboarding clothes, you’ll have to keep a number of things in mind. You’ll want to create your snowboarding “outfit” in layers – an outer layer that breaks wind and locks out water and an inner layer that keeps you warm and doesn’t absorb your body’s moisture. Make sure that your skin shows in as few areas a possible. If you’re just starting to snowboard, it’s inevitable that you’ll have a few bumps and bruises. You don’t want to add to your pain by having snow leak into your wrists and ankles.

Next, you’ll want to shorten your learning curve by taking some lessons.

Swallow your pride for this, and go in with an empty mind – allow the experienced snowboarder to mold you like a piece of silly putty. The more resistance you put up, the harder you’re making it both for your instructor and yourself. Don’t fret that you aren’t taking on huge jumps and sick turns right away; you have to address the fundamentals before you start bringing out the tricks.

Don’t look at your progress at first. Progress is very hard to discern, especially early on. What you want is an instructor who will push you out of your comfort zone without risking your safety. If you feel like giving up, you’re doing it right. Why is that? Because without the frustration of growing pains, you won’t be improving much. If your instructor isn’t challenging you, it’s time to find a new one.

Essentially, you’ll want to concentrate on the fundamentals when you start snowboarding because the fundamentals are the most important aspect of your game. You can’t build a skyscraper without digging a huge hole in the ground first – and you won’t be able to look like an expert snowboarder until you’ve paid your dues. If you enjoy paying your dues, you’re a snowboarder.

Photo Credits: pincusvt

Originally posted 2009-04-28 05:37:13.

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