Snowboarding has come a long way since when it first emerged as a winter sport in the 1920’s. The first snowboards were far from the sophisticated ones that we have today as they were made using boards from the sides of barrels. These plywood boards would be tied together using clothesline and people would keep their feet in place as they flew down the hills with horse reigns. Snowboarding did not emerge into the national spotlight until the 1970’s and 80’s. New equipment was developed to try to make the sport more popular. The sport really took shape in 1998 when it landed a place in the Winter Olympics. Many people enjoy participating in snowboarding on winter vacations and you can too by following these simple tips. It takes a lot of practice to really master the art of snowboarding so do not be concerned if you are not flying down the slopes right away. Make sure that you emphasize safety at all times and know what you are capable of doing.

Get into shape. Before you decide to snap on a snowboard make sure that you are physically fit. Riding down the slopes all day can really take it out of someone, so it is important to understand how demanding the sport is.

Take lessons. If you are just beginning it is a good idea to take a lesson first to learn the basics from an experienced instructor. There are group and individual lessons available, so you can even get some friends together and try snowboarding out together.

Play it safe. It is important for you to understand that when you start out you will not be flying around like the professional athletes. After you become experienced enough if you desire to attempt jumps, then make sure you learn the proper technique first to avoid injuries.

Get fitted for proper equipment. It important to keep all of your snowboarding gear in good condition, and you should also check it regularly. You should have your bindings checked by a local ski shop to make sure it is done correctly. If you want to protect yourself when you fall you can also invest in some wrist guards and kneepads.

Wear a helmet. Snowboarding Helmets have been proven to prevent or reduce the severity of almost half of all head injuries in adults. They are even more important for children as they can reduce injuries in more than half of children under the age of 15.

Learn how to fall. It is pretty much inevitable that you will fall at some point, so it is important to learn how to do so correctly. If you understand the best way to fall then it will help to reduce your risk of injury.

If you aim to really feel that need for speed then head to the slopes in the afternoon or early evening as this is when the hills are the fastest from all the traffic sliding down them. So look out and make sure you don’t run into anything while you feel the adrenaline pumping through your veins as you glide down the snow-covered hill. Once you have had your fun on the slopes curl up with a nice warm cup of hot cocoa it is the perfect end to the day.