CHAPTER 5: TEACHING BEGINNERS
ONE-FOOT ATTACHED SIDESLIPPING & “DRIFT” LEFT/RIGHT As students become with the Gas Pedal exercise, they will naturally become more comfortable allowing the board to slide. Encourage them to experiment with sideslipping with the free foot placed against the back binding, and the heel (or toe) slightly off the board to assist with speed control.
Once they are sliding smoothly, have them start to move diagonally across the slope by shifting weight over the foot in the direction they would like to travel, as well as allow that end of the board to move downhill slightly. Having the back foot unattached gives students the option to step out away from the board, catching themselves if they happen to fall or catch an edge.
ATTACHING THE BOARD ON A SLOPE
Before continuing with Sideslipping and learning to control direction, students will need to have both feet attached to the snowboard. To accomplish this safely, keep in mind the following points: • • • • • •
Arrange students in an area free of excessive traffic, standing with the front foot attached, facing down the hill. Ensure students have enough room between each other to move around. Using the heel edge of the snowboard, students can “dig” a platform in the snow, which will allow them to stand without sliding. Clear any snow from the rear binding, and place the foot in the binding. Attach the ankle strap, and then the toe strap. Be ready to help students – they may require assistance strapping in for the first couple times!
Alternative Methods: 1. Facing uphill, use the attached foot to dig in the heel edge (downhill edge). Use this platform to strap in the rear foot. This method may be easier for students in harder snow. 2. Sitting on the snow. If the situation (terrain, snow conditions) don’t allow students to strap in while standing, ask them to sit on the snow facing downhill, to strap in the rear foot.
HOW TO STAND UP
Standing up on the heel edge (facing downhill) can be difficult for some students. There are a couple of options that may help: Standing Up - Option 1:
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Facing downhill, slide the hips close to the snowboard. Place the back hand on the snow next to the hips and reach forward/up with the other arm. In one quick motion, rock forward and stand quickly. It may be helpful to reach forward and grab onto the toe edge in this method.