Hi everyone!
My friends and I are planning a ski/snowboard trip in the new year, and I’m hoping to give snowboarding a try for the first time! My friends are moderately experienced, but I’m a complete beginner.
I’ve tried skiing before and honestly didn’t enjoy it. I struggled to feel in control, couldn’t quite get the hang of pizza-ing, and found having my feet separate while also managing poles a bit overwhelming. I feel like I might enjoy snowboarding more, but am I being overly optimistic in thinking it might suit me better? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Since I don’t live near any resorts, I’m hoping to prepare as much as I can beforehand. I have a gym membership and plan to work on my strength, balance, and core, along with doing some balance exercises at home. I’ve also been looking into getting a balance board to help me get familiar with the stance and movements.
For those who snowboard, do you think these things would genuinely help a beginner feel more comfortable on the board? I know nothing can fully replicate being on snow, but I’d love to build some confidence before the trip.
I think my biggest hurdle will be getting over the fear of falling and hurting myself, but I’m willing to put in the work and give it a proper go!
I’d love to hear any advice, exercises, or tips you’d give someone starting from scratch. Am I being too optimistic about potentially enjoying snowboarding more than skiing, or has anyone else had a similar experience?
Thanks in advance!
TLDR: I’m going on a snowboarding trip with friends in the new year and will be a complete beginner. I didn’t enjoy skiing and felt like I had little control, so I’m hoping snowboarding might suit me better. Since I don’t live near a resort, I’m considering a balance board, gym workouts, and at-home balance exercises to prepare. Would these actually help, and am I being too optimistic about enjoying snowboarding more than skiing? Any beginner tips are welcome!