In the early days of the sport, snowboarders were not even allowed to ride on the groomed slopes of the skiing resort. As snowboarding gained mainstream acceptance, the sport diverged into a multitude of riding disciplines, including the parallel slalom, half pipe and freestyle. Often referred to as slope stylers, freestyle riders spend countless hours perfecting high-altitude flips and spins.
Backside 360
The backside 360 is an intermediate freestyle trick that can be performed on flat ground or off inclined ramps. Beginners often prefer to learn the maneuver off a launch ramp, as it provides increased airtime. Compress your riding stance by bending your knees. Approach the launch ramp with a moderate amount of speed. Begin rotating your shoulders before reaching the apex of the ramp. Jump skyward while turning your head in the direction of the spin. Lift your knees towards your chest to increase the velocity of the turn. If you ride with your right foot forward, you'll spin the backside 360 rotation counterclockwise. Lower your eyes to the ground to spot your landing. Bend your knees as the underside of your board touches down onto the snow.
Tail Press
The tail press is another intermediate freestyle trick that can be executed on flat ledges and circular rails. Most beginners prefer to learn the tail press on a flat ledge as it's easier to balance. Approach the ledge with a moderate amount of speed. Transfer your body weight onto your back foot as you reach the front end of the obstacle. Extend your legs to leap above the ledge. Land on top of the ledge while balancing on the tail or back end of the snowboard. Transworld Snowboarding recommends keeping your shoulders parallel to the obstacle throughout the tail press. Jump away from the ledge as you slide to the end. Bend your knees to absorb the force of the landing.
Frontside Lipslide
The frontside lipslide is a more advanced freestyle trick that involves sliding across a rail or ledge. The riding pros at "Snowboarder" magazine recommend approaching the rail with the toe-edge of your snowboard parallel to the obstacle. Extend your legs to leap vertically above the rail. Rotate the snowboard 90 degrees with your chest facing forward. Land with your snowboard perpendicular to the rail. Lean forward to maintain balance. Rotate your board back to a forward riding stance as you slide off the end of the rail.
Tail Grab
The tail grab is a stylish freestyle trick that involves grabbing the back end of your snowboard with your dominant hand. According to the "New York Times," advanced riders often perform variations of the tail grab off a large ramp known as the half pipe. Leap skyward as you reach the summit of the snowboarding ramp. Lower your dominant hand to grab the tail while soaring through the air. Pull up on the tail to tweak the grab for extra style points.
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