Snowboarding is an activity that's enjoyed by people of all ages. Some snowboarders make it seem effortless, but it does take a good deal of practice and trial and error to become proficient. Following a handful of beginner snowboarding tips will help you get up on your board and stay on your feet all the way down the hill.
Bindings
A snowboard uses bindings similar to skis, so your feet are locked in and your board stays close to your body if you fall. As a beginner, turn your board so it is perpendicular to the hill before you step into the bindings, so it doesn't take off down the hill without you. Wrap the safety leash around your front foot to keep your board with you during the process. For step-in bindings, clear the snow off the bottom of your front boot and step into the binding toe first, then snap your heel into place. For strap bindings, set your boot on the baseplate and bend down to insert the straps in the buckles and tighten them so they're snug. Sit down before you secure your back foot, so you don't lose your balance or slide away before you're ready.
Stance
How you stand on the snowboard is important to stay balanced and on the board and stay upright down the hill. Keep your weight distributed equally between both feet with your arms slightly out from your body at your sides. Bend your knees to where your balance is the best and you are able to absorb impact as you travel down the hill.
Stopping
Getting strapped in and finding a balanced stance can be quite exciting for a beginner, but your excitement is sure to come to an abrupt end if you're sailing down the hill and can't stop. The key to stopping your board is to turn it perpendicular to the hill so the edge digs into the snow and brings you to a stop. At first this will be difficult, but practice will get you used to the motion. Visualize turning your board to point up the hill so you turn it enough to help you stop. Lift up slightly on the leading edge of the board if it is sideways and still keeps sliding.
Falling
Despite your best efforts, falling is going to be a large part of your snowboarding experience at the start. With falling also comes the potential for injury if you don't use the proper technique. Make a fist every time you fall so you don't injure your fingers or hyperextend your wrists. When possible, fall forward onto your knees and forearms to help absorb some of the impact and spread out the force. If you do fall backward, land on your fists and flat on your butt to help cushion the impact.
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