Every time you try something new, you are bound to make mistakes. It is all apart of the learning process. As a beginner snowboarder, you are bound to make multiple mistakes while on the slopes for the first time. However, some mistakes can be easily prevented with some friendly advice. The following are the top five mistakes that snowboarders make and how you can avoid them.

1. Rushing into snowboarding without taking your time

Regardless of your skill level, even if you have experience with skiing, skateboarding, or surfing, you need to take your time when it comes to snowboarding. It is a different sport and therefore it will take time for you to cascade down a hill like a professional. By giving sport your time and patience, you will eventually hit a breakthrough point, and be rewarded for all your hard work.

2. Not being physically fit

Snowboarding demands you to physically fit. If you live a sedentary lifestyle and don’t exercise too often, you will your first time on a board to be quite difficult and exhausting. As you are snowboarding you are using many different muscles throughout your body as you balance on your board, turn a corner, or even stop. Improving muscular strength is necessary to help build endurance, efficiency, and reduce muscle fatigue.

3. Falling Hands First

You will fall the first time you snowboard. In fact, you will fall multiple times. Even the professionals still fall from time to time. When you do fall, you will want to bring your arms as close to you as possible. If you fall with your hands out in front of you, you make break wrist. The safest option is to fall with your entire body with your arms up on your chest to minimize the damage. The most common injuries of snowboarders are wrists for this reason.

4. Go Snowboarding By Yourself

As a beginner boarder, do not face the trails by yourself. Anything can happen while you are on the slopes, and if you wipe out and get hurt with no one around, you get caught in a very difficult situation. While snowboarding, make sure you have a board buddy, whether they are your friend, partner, or instructor. Doing so will help keep you both safe, in case something were to go awry.

5. Learning How to Snowboard by Yourself

Not getting professional lessons on snowboarding, sets you up for failure. You can watch thousands of Youtube videos on snowboard tutorials, but it won’t get you very far. Even if a friend teaches you, you might not acquire the necessary skills and techniques. To skip all the frustration and stress, find a professional instructor who will help you understand the proper form and techniques and who will eventually lead you to success.