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Types of Snowboarding:
There are two primary styles of snowboarding, freestyle/freeride
and alpine/carving. Each style requires it's own specialized
set of equipment.
A freestyle board will have to be flexible, maneuverable
and light. A alpine board will have to have to be rigid, have
extremely sharp edges, and your bindings will have to be adjusted
so both feet are pointing down the mountain. What style you
choose is up to you, for both have their own benefits.
Preparation:
Like all sports, snowboarding requires a good deal of rest
the night before. Being physically fit and eating healthy
will also help. It is important that you realize having rest
and limited physical injuries will dramatically improve your
snowboarding capabilities.
Equipment:
Make sure the board you are using is the correct height, and
is in relatively good condition. The edges of the board should
be sharp, for this will enhance your performance on hard or
packed snow conditions. Beware, having dull edges drastically
reduces your turning capabilities, This may lead to having
less control over your board, putting yourself and other skiers/boarders
in danger. It is also essential that your snowboard bindings
are adjusted correctly. If they are not, a local ski shop
will supply you with the tools to do this yourself.
Fatigue:
It is key to know your body's limits. When you feel that your
legs are starting to tire, stop and take a break. Overexerting
your muscles will only lead to injury. Learning how to snowboard
can be a workout. If you immediately start to feel any muscles
getting tired, ask your coach/instructor for help because
it is likely your posture can be improved, leading to reduced
muscle strain. Know your limits.
Control:
It is essential for your safety and other skiers/boarders
that you don't try to snowboard in areas too difficult for
your level of experiences. Likewise, don't snowboard faster
than you feel comfortable going. Always stay in control.
Courtesy:
People ahead of you always have the right of way. Stop in
a safe place for you and others. Whenever starting downhill
or merging, look uphill and yield.
Rules:
Be knowledgable of signs and warnings, and keep off closed
trails. Know how to use the lifts safely.
Fatigue:
Stop before you become fatigued and enjoy snowboarding!
Weather:
Check the weather before starting out. Make sure that the
conditions are favorable for the day, or plan to be back down
to the bottom of the slopes prior to the expected bad weather.
Hydrate:
Drink plenty of water. Be careful not to become dehydrated,
as it will limit your performance.
Lessons:
The best way to become a good skier or snowboarder is to take
a lesson from a qualified instructor. However, it is important
you realize that just because you have difficulty with one
task doesn't mean you won't be highly successful at others.
Also, a tip before snowboarding, stretch a little, and become
aware of your body.
About the Author
Rob Daniels is a lifelong sports enhusiasts and snowboarder.
More articles by Rob can be found at Goofy Snowboarding
http://www.goofy-snowboarding.com and Kayak Escape http://www.kayak-escape.com
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