IT’S SNOWBOARDING SEASON!
By Carmen Greger
Snowboarding is a popular winter sport that offers numerous benefits both physically and mentally. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, snowboarding can provide a fun and challenging experience that is sure to keep you coming back for more. There are both mental and physical benefits of snowboarding: and some techniques to help you get started.
Physical Benefits: Snowboarding is a great form of exercise that helps to improve cardiovascular fitness, coordination, balance, and strength. Snowboarding works several muscle groups in the body, including the legs, hips, and core, making it a full-body workout. By constantly shifting your weight, maintaining balance, and controlling your movements, you’ll be able to improve your overall fitness and agility, all while having tons of fun! Additionally, the cold and crisp mountain air is naturally invigorating, which can help to boost your energy levels and mental clarity.
Mental Benefits: In addition to the physical benefits, snowboarding can also have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Snowboarding provides a sense of freedom, adventure, and exhilaration that can help to reduce stress and anxiety and build confidence. It’s also a great way to escape the daily grind and spend some quality time with friends and family. Whether you’re cruising down a gentle slope or tackling a challenging run, snowboarding can provide a sense of accomplishment that can boost your confidence and self-esteem.
If you’re new to snowboarding, it’s important to ease in and begin with the basics.
Here are a few techniques to help you get started:
- Stance: The first step in snowboarding is to find the right stance. Most snowboarders prefer a “goofy” stance, with their right foot forward, while others prefer a “regular” stance, with their left foot forward. Experiment with both and see which feels more natural for you.
- Gliding: Once you’ve found your stance, it’s time to start gliding. Start by walking on your snowboard, then try sliding one foot at a time. This will help you get a feel for the board and improve your balance.
- Turning: Once you’ve got the hang of gliding, it’s time to start turning. To turn to the left, shift your weight to your front foot and use your back foot to guide the board. To turn to the right, shift your weight to your back foot and use your front foot to guide the board.
- Stopping: To stop, simply plant both feet on the snow and drag your edges. This will slow you down and eventually bring you to a stop.
- Riding the Lift: When riding the lift, make sure to keep your board in front of you and your feet parallel. Keep your knees bent and your core engaged to maintain balance. Many often keep one boot on the ground and one on the board during lift prep.
- Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the occasion! Comfortable layers are important’ remember, you will start off cold, but snowboarding is a workout and it is likely that you will eventually work up a sweat, and helmets and goggles are highly recommended safety gear for all levels!
These are the basics of snowboarding, and with practice, you’ll soon be able to tackle more challenging runs and try more advanced techniques.
Snowboarding is a great winter sport that offers a variety of physical and mental benefits. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, snowboarding provides a fun and challenging experience that is sure to keep you coming back for more. With these tips and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled snowboarder in no time.
Need a Board?
Check out Buckman’s online at https://Buckmans.com, stop in to see them at 26 W Lancaster Ave, Ardmore PA, or get your gear on the mountain, just plan ahead as there are usually long wait lines and can be much pricier day of than renting for the season or purchasing from the shop.
Where to Board in the Philly area?
Check out: Blue Mountain, Bear Creek, Jack Frost/Big Boulder, Camelback, Shawnee, Elk, to name a few.
Lessons are highly recommended for first timers. Prepare to fall many times, but consider the experience a crash course filled with ‘learning curves’ and ‘growing pains’; dust yourself off, put a smile on your face and enjoy chilling out on the slippery slopes!
