Rising to the Challenge of Snowboarding
October 8, 2009 by Byron Jonas
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Snowboarding is one of those sports that is gathering more followers by the day, associated with hip, youthful style and energy. However, what many people don?t realize when they first decide to hit the slopes on a snowboard is that this is a very demanding sport that requires people to be in good physical condition to be able to enjoy themselves?and avoid injury!
That?s right: if you are not careful, your otherwise enjoyable snowboarding trip could be turned into a complete nightmare! So before you snap on the boots and the board, make sure that you are up to the challenge and are in good enough condition to handle this sport, avoiding injury to yourself and to others (common with first-time boarders).
To being with, you shouldn’t even be thinking about putting together a snowboarding trip if you are not in somewhat decent physical condition. It’s not necessary for you to be at the Olympic level of competition, but in the case that you have doubts regarding the shape you’re in then at least be modest and careful on the trails. Make constant stops and keep yourself to the beginner’s trails, and avoid fatiguing yourself until you are ready to throw the towel in for the day. Though it may seem strange, many first times to the sport only discover how exhausted they are when they are on the verge of causing some sort of incident or accident on the trail.
Furthermore, make sure that you stick to the kinds of trails and courses that are at your level. If you have never been on a snowboard before, don?t try performing any of the insane stunts you have seen on TV; avoid the moguls and generally avoid the icy patches and hard snow surfaces, as they demand more skill to be properly navigated.
Additionally, ensure yourself that you are heading out onto the mountain in the right state of mind. When snowboarding (as with skiing and basically any sport for that matter), it is simply irresponsible to head out with a hangover or worse yet, still drunk! Obviously this needs to apply with all kinds of mind altering substances such as whatever medications or drugs you may be taking, as the effects on your body and judgment could have horrible consequences.
A serious issue with snowboarding that newbies are not prepared for is the rate of acceleration which can be achieved, bringing riders up to incredible speeds over very short distances. Whereas with skiing riders have the ability to execute the “wedge” position that reduces speed quite effectively, a snowboard is a little trickier in terms of braking. Hence, new riders should stick to slopes with a relatively shallow incline and should practice constant swerving to help reduce speed.
A major aspect of snowboarding is the gear which the sport implies, as related to keeping the moisture and coldness out and protecting against falls or collisions. Waterproof outer clothing as well as goggles and padded clothing are a few of the more important items to keep in mind, and be sure to see if the local resort doesn’t offer other equipment as well.
Finally, keep the right attitude present when out enjoying the slopes: don’t ruin the occasion for yourself or for others. Be aware of your own skill level and expect that others on the trails are beginners, not talented pros (just like when out driving!). With these considerations in mind, you should have a pleasant experience and allow the same for others as well.
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