While professional snowboarders can make the most difficult maneuvers seem effortless, even the simplest of tricks require increased strength and flexibility. Avid snowboarders utilize a multitude of conditioning techniques to avoid painful injuries on the slopes. A majority of these snowboard conditioning practices can be performed in the comfort of your own home.
Strength Training
Strengthening the appropriate muscles will allow you to maintain control of the snowboard during hairpin turns. Conditioning your leg muscles will help to increase the velocity of your aerial spins and snowboarding flips. ABC-of-Snowboarding recommends "jump training" as it enables your muscles to get used to stretching and then quickly contracting. Stand at the bottom of a staircase with your feet about shoulder width apart. Jump up onto the first step, landing on the balls of your feet simultaneously before jumping back down. Perform two to three sets of six to eight jumps to condition your leg muscles.
Balance Training
Many conditioning exercises designed for snowboarders help to gradually increase your balance over time. Even the most elementary maneuvers require you to balance on the edges of the snowboard. Snowboard Secrets recommends placing a tennis ball under the arches of your feet to practice your balance. Balance on the tennis balls as long as possible without touching the ground. You can also utilize a specialized balance board that sits atop a cylindrical tube. Walk up and down the balance board to increase your muscle response.
Flexibility Training
To tweak your freestyle grabs while flying through the air, you'll need to have flexible muscles in your arms and legs. Lower yourself onto the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Spread your legs apart until they form a V-shape. Lean forward while gripping your shins to elongate your leg muscles. Extend your left hand towards your right foot to stretch your arm muscles. Repeat the process with your opposing arm by extending your right hand towards your left foot.
Trampoline Training
Many snowboard training facilities house a multitude of trampolines. According to the Aspen Post, training on a trampoline allows you to practice your slope style and half-pipe tricks in the off-season. Place your snowboard onto the middle of the trampoline. Fasten your boots into the bindings to begin the conditioning exercise. Extend your legs to bounce above the trampoline. Perform your most difficult flips and spins to get comfortable with the necessary body movements.
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