Once you feel comfortable with the essential techniques of carving and stopping, you can attempt an intermediate maneuver that involves catching air. In snowboarding, the jumping technique is commonly referred to as the ollie. To get used to catching air, Snow Professor.com recommends practicing your jumps on a small ramp that features a height of 1 to 2 feet. Donning a snowboard helmet will keep you protected in the event of a fall or slide out.
Step 1
Practice on a trampoline to get comfortable catching air on your snowboard. Lower your snowboard onto the trampoline with the bindings facing up. Align your boots in the bindings and fasten the retention straps.
Step 2
Bend your knees to lower your center of gravity. Extend your legs quickly to bounce above the trampoline. Repeat this training exercise for a few minutes each day to improve your airborne balance.
Step 3
Put on a snowboarding helmet and fasten the safety straps beneath your chin. Adjust the straps if necessary to ensure a snug but comfortable fit. Transport your snowboard to the beginner section of the terrain park.
Step 4
Align your snowboard about 50 feet from the beginner snowboard ramp. Ride toward the ramp with your non-dominant foot in the lead. Approach the jump with a comfortable speed to avoid overshooting the landing.
Step 5
Shift your body weight between the opposing edges of the board to prevent excess drag. Lean back as you ascend the inclined ramp face. Lift your front foot to raise the nose of the snowboard off the ramp face.
Step 6
Extend your back leg to jump as you reach the summit of the beginner ramp. Elevate your knees to maximize the hang time of your snowboard jump. Lean forward to keep the underside of your board parallel to the ground.
Step 7
Lower your eyes to the snow to spot a safe landing. Bend your knees as the bottom of your snowboard touches down. Practice the jumping technique to get used to catching air on your snowboard.
Things You'll Need
- Trampoline
- Snowboard helmet
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