The idea of snowboarding came from the desire to surf on the snow. The first board made for this purpose, created by inventor Sherman Poppen in the 1960s, was dutifully named the "Snurfer," according to magazine "Snowsphere." Like other winter sports, snowboarding comes with distinctive challenges and risks. Learning to stay safe on your board is just as crucial as mastering the tricks. Snowboarding related injuries should be properly evaluated by a medical professional to determine the extent of the damage.
Step 1
Wear wrist guards when you snowboard. Many injuries are caused by falling with your hands stretched out to catch yourself. A wrist guard will add strength to your wrists and help prevent injury. Ball your hands into fists when you ride to avoiding falling with your fingers spread.
Step 2
Pick the right equipment for your skill level. If you are new to snowboarding, wear soft boots and use an all-purpose snowboard. Let the salesperson or rental agent help you determine which equipment is safest for you.
Step 3
Carry ski poles when you're learning to snowboard. The poles help beginners learn to fall correctly and maintain balance. Discuss this option with your instructor before beginning.
Step 4
Practice on easy slopes until you master the sport. The steeper the slope, the harder the fall. Learn how to snowboard safely from a trained instructor before heading for the complicated runs.
Step 5
Ride slopes that are designated for snowboarding or free of skiers, when possible. Skiers may have difficulty stopping without sliding into a snowboarder, reports "The New York Times." A snowboarder can stop on a dime, but skiers can ram a snowboarder when trying to slow down.
Tips and Warnings
- Wrist traumas are the most common snowboarding injuries.
- Wearing hiking boots while snowboarding may increase your risk of injury, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.
References
- "The New York Times"; Phys Ed: How to Avoid Injury on the Slopes; Tara Parker; December 2009
- American Society for Surgery of the Hand: Ski and Snowboard Injuries
- American Academy of Family Physicians; Tips for Snowboarders; CC Young, et al.; December 2010
- Snowsphere.com; Snowboarding Vs Skiing: The Dying Feud; Sam Baldwin; 2006
