Some people are naturally adept at picking up certain activities fairly quickly. If you’re one of those people, it’s possible to pick up snowboarding in one day, as long as you’re prepared first. If you’re motivated, here’s what you can do to boost your odds of being able to learn the basics of snowboarding in a single day, brought to you by the team at Mammoth Bound, your premier choice for snowboard rental. Mammoth snowboarders can rely on us for the high-quality equipment they need to make the most of their time on the mountain.
Bring What You’ll Need
Before you focus on the actual act of snowboarding, make sure you come with everything you’ll need as far as equipment and clothing go. Typically, this is a list that includes:
• A snowboard you’re comfortable using
• Boots made for snowboarding
• Pants, layers, and a jacket all capable of withstanding the elements
• A ski mask and/or goggles to protect your face and eyes
You may want to consider renting a snowboard if you’re just getting started. Once you get more advanced, you can always invest in a board of your own.
Pick a Spot Suitable for Your Skills
You’ll be more likely to pick up the basics of snowboarding in one day if you start in an area that fits your current abilities. For example, if you already know how to ski, you may be more comfortable in an intermediate area. However, if you’re completely new to activities of this nature, it’s better to stick to a beginner-level area with gentler hills and terrain.
Get on Your Board
Once you’re in a spot where you’ll be able to safely snowboard, start by getting on your board. Put the board at a 90-degree angle so the edge of it is firmly in the snow. What this does is keep the board—and you—from going downhill before you’re ready.
Start with the Basics
As you get ready to catch some air, stand on your snowboard sideways. It’s a stance that allows you to properly shift your feet and the weight of your body. A good way to get started is to put some pressure on your heels as the rail of the board digs into the snow while you’re gently going down a hill. Bend your knees as you do this. Do the same thing while putting pressure on your leading foot instead.
Snowboarding also involves coordinating movements among your feet, knees, waist, and shoulders to achieve the right balance. This is also what helps you learn how to turn. The ollie, where you briefly get airborne as you shift your weight and foot pressure, is one of the beginner moves often recommended.
Learn How to Stop & Fall
With stopping, you basically just dig your rails into the snow. The friction created by this pressure makes you stop. When you fall on your snowboard, keep your arms toward your body and maintain a low and flexible position. If you fall forward, aim to land on your knees. When falling backward, your backside should absorb most of the impact.
Build on the Basics
If you maintain your focus, you should be able to pick up the basics of snowboarding in one day. That said, it will take some time to master tricks and other more advanced moves, but that’s okay. Once you get the basics down, you can always build on what you’ve learned.
If you need snowboarding pointers or gear before you hit the mountain, stop in and chat with the snow sports experts at Mammoth Bound. We have great tips for beginning and veteran snowboarders alike, and we can hook you up with all the gear you need for an amazing mountain adventure. When they’re looking for premier Mammoth snowboard rentals, our customers come back again and again for our high-quality service and expert knowledge. Drop by when you’re on the mountain or contact us at [email protected].
What could be a better souvenir from your trip to Mammoth Mountain than an awesome t-shirt? At Mammoth Bound, we have a wide selection of Mammoth t-shirts to choose from. Make sure to stop in during your trip!