Snowboarding, which was popularized in the 1970s, combines surfing and skateboarding for a skiing-like experience on snow-covered hills and mountains. Snowboarders use boards with boot and binding systems to secure the snowboarders' feet to the board. Snowboarding can result in serious injuries and fatalities, according to the National Safety Council. Safety precautions are critical. Snowboarders must become skilled at controlling their speed and the snowboard while maneuvering down a mountain; however, safety also involves preparation before snowboarding.
Physical Fitness
Snowboarding is a physically demanding sport. You can prevent injuries by making sure you are physically fit before participating. Engaging in regular exercise, including muscle strengthening, helps improve your endurance, strength and flexibility while preparing you to avoid fatigue and injuries from falls and the stress on your joints and muscles. The National Safety Council recommends starting a fitness program before the snowboarding season starts to give yourself enough time to get in shape.
Equipment
Choose your snowboarding equipment carefully. Ask for professional help when purchasing your snowboard, boots and bindings. Your boots and bindings should fit snugly for safe operation. All of your equipment should be appropriate for your height, weight and skill level. Dress in warm, layered clothing in bright colors that are easily seen from a distance. Choose a fabric for your outerwear that is water repellent and that reduces sliding if you fall. Use sun protection on your exposed skin and wear sunglasses or safety goggles. Many snowboarders, adults and children, use safety helmets.
Instruction and Skill Development
Beginner snowboarders should receive lessons from a certified instructor. New snowboarders should learn how to fall and get up when on the slopes, practice controlling the movement of the snowboard and learn how to avoid obstacles and increase visibility. An instructor can teach beginners the importance of weather conditions and how to plan a snowboarding outing. Start slowly and know you limits. Learn how to leave a slope, by side-stepping downward, if a slope is above your skill level.
Slope Rules
Know the slope rules for the area in which you will be snowboarding. Instructors may review the rules with students. Slope rules protect you and other snowboarders and skiers. The rules instruct you to never snowboard alone, use safety devices to avoid runaway equipment, stay out of prohibited areas, avoid stopping on slopes or in places where you are not visible to others, give snowboarders below you the right of way, look both ways before entering a trail or joining downhill traffic, obey all posted signs.
Tips and Warnings
Examine a map of the area in which you will snowboard and learn the terrain, the location of obstacles, and the prohibited areas and learn how to contact the ski patrol. Protect against dehydration by drinking enough water and avoiding alcohol before and during snowboarding.
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