Learning to control the edges of your snowboard will allow you to navigate around fellow riders with ease. While the turning technique might feel awkward at first, there are a few training exercises that will aid in the learning process. Riding a snowboard that features a centered stance will help to keep your body weight evenly distributed across the top of the fiberglass deck. ABC-of-Snowboarding recommends practicing your turning technique on a mellow slope that features a smooth, groomed terrain.
Step 1
Carry your snowboard to the top of a beginner slope to initiate the learning process. Perform a training exercise known as sideslipping to get comfortable using the edges of your snowboard. Rotate your snowboard to a horizontal position with your chest facing down the slope.
Step 2
Lean forward slowly to allow the underside of your board to slide across the snow. Lean onto your heels while applying downward pressure. Repeat the exercise a few times to gain control over the heel edge of your snowboard.
Step 3
Rotate your snowboard 180 degrees so your back is facing down the slope. Lean back slowly to allow the snowboard to slide. Apply downward pressure with your toes to slow the momentum of your snowboard.
Step 4
Repeat the sideslipping exercise to gain control over your toe edge. Point the nose of your snowboard down the slope. Bend your knees while holding your arms parallel to the riding terrain.
Step 5
Elevate your lead foot slightly as you reach a comfortable speed. Lean back slowly to shift your body weight onto the heel edge. Hold your shoulders parallel to the board as you traverse the beginner slope.
Step 6
Lean forward slowly as your speed begins to wane. Apply downward pressure to ensure the toe edge penetrates the snow. Link your heel-side and toe-side turns to improve your edge control.
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