Beginner 'Learn to turn' snowboarder course 

Lesson 13

Lesson 3

Goal:
Our goal here is to learn how to Apply and Release pressure from our snowboard edge, this will help us stop and start our slide when both feet are clicked in.

By using flexion and extension to control the amount of pressure we place on the snowboard edge, we are able to control how much friction our snowboard has with the snow, this in return will enable us to control our speed in any situation

How:

IMAGE OF HEELSIDE SIDE SLIP

Heel side:

Step 1: Start by having both feet clicked in facing across the fall line, Make sure you have a strong basic stance (Even weight on both feet), relaxed and focused.

Step 2 :In this position, I want you to slowly flex down on to the snowboard edge at the same time lifting your toes up.

We call this (flexion) flexing down into the snowboard in this way will create more friction underneath your edge causing your snowboard edge to dig in and stop.

Step 3 :From this position, I now want you to slowly start standing up taller on your board (extension) and at the same time, ‘slowly’ start lowering your toe side edge just enough so your board starts sliding on the heel edge.

Do not let your toe side edge touch the snow!

Step 4 :Hold your Basic stance and keep your head looking up (do not look down)

Toe side:

IMAGE OF TOE SIDE SIDE SLIP

The same Principle applies here,

Step 1 :Flex down to apply pressure and stop, Extend up to release and slide

Step 2 :Starting on your toe side edge in your basic stance (heels up), slowly extend yourself up, and at the same time, lowering your heel side edge down towards the snow until you start sliding. (Don not let your heels touch the snow)

Step 3 :Slowly flex back down onto the toe side edge to create friction/pressure on your snowboard to stop.

The range of movements when doing this on the toe side edge is a lot different from heel side edge, Take things slower and really focus on using toes, ankles and knees to create edge tilt.

Step 4 :Keep your basic stance and make sure your head is looking back up the hill.
Don’t look down!

Practice this until you can side slip on both edges comfortably.
You should be able to slide comfortable down the hill with your snowboard facing across the hill.

If you snowboard is not remaining in a stable slide slip, you need to make sure your weight is even on both feet.
You might need a friend to hold your hands until you become confident with even weight on both feet.

Where:
Green run, beginner ski school area.

Exercise:
Practice this until you can side slip down the hill without falling over or losing control (even weight on both feet)

Lesson Resources

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