Many people wonder if being overweight prevents them from enjoying snowboarding. It’s a common concern, especially for those new to the sport. The good news is that size itself isn't the primary issue. However, fitness and preparation play a significant role in your snowboarding experience.
Fitness is Key
While there's no reason a "larger" person can't snowboard, it's physically demanding, particularly when you're learning. Expect a lot of falling and getting back up. Therefore, fitness is crucial. If you're not very fit, it’s wise to improve your fitness level before hitting the slopes. Consider starting a fitness routine that focuses on core strength. You will fall over a lot and really use your tummy muscles to pick yourself back up.
- Core Strength: Essential for getting back up after falls.
- Flexibility: Important for balance and preventing injuries.
- Endurance: Snowboarding can be tiring, especially at first.
Getting Started: Snowdome Lessons
A great way to prepare is by taking lessons at a snowdome. Snowdomes offer a controlled environment to learn the basics and get a feel for the physical demands of snowboarding. You can hire salopettes/ jackets there too for the lessons.
Lessons at a snowdome well in advance are a really good idea - it will give you a feel for the level of fitness you'll need. Though remember the first few days are by far the most tiring, so don't be discouraged. Good luck!!!
Also, consider that learning to ski might be less strenuous than learning to board, so it might be worth trying an hour's skiing lesson too: seems to involve less time sitting on your backside in cold wet snow for beginners, and you can always switch to boards another year.
Read also: In-Depth Sundance Snowboarding
Finding Plus-Size Snow Gear
Finding appropriate snow gear is essential for comfort and safety. There are plenty of outsized ski wear places on the web. Don't think that you have to use specific 'ski' or 'board' gear for your first trip - especially if you go later in the season when its warmer. Can use any outdoor waterproof jacket with a fleece.
Here are a few tips for finding plus-size snow wear:
- Online Retailers: Search online for stores specializing in plus-size outdoor clothing.
- Check for Extended Sizes: Some brands offer extended sizes in their regular snow gear lines.
- Consider Versatility: Look for versatile pieces that can be layered.
Techniques for Getting Up
One of the most challenging aspects of learning to snowboard is getting up after a fall. Here’s a useful technique:
It is actually far easier to get up after a fall on a snowboard than on skis (I am an experienced skier and a very inexperienced boarder and I can get up far quicker on a board). If you land on your back, you just swing the board over your head.
Face UP the hill and get up onto my front edge. One million times easier. I'm not fat, but I am old.
Read also: Types of Snowboarding Jumps
Try it, in the privacy of your own sitting room. All fours on the floor, feet shoulder width apart. Then, without moving your feet, push up onto hands and feet. Move your hands a bit closer to your feet till you can stand up (without moving your feet). If your OH has a board, strap into it and try.
Mindset and Motivation
Don't let anyone discourage you from trying snowboarding. Remember, the first few days are the most tiring, so don't be discouraged. The best approach is to ignore negativity and give it a go, starting with a snowdome. Getting the winter sports bug could be the drive to get fitter - I wasted too many years telling myself there were things I'd try "when I am thin". Well NO MORE. My advice to anyone is to go for whatever it is you want to do NOW.
Key Takeaway: With the right preparation and mindset, anyone can enjoy snowboarding, regardless of their size.
Additional Tips
- Flexibility: What's just as important is basic flexibility . . . girlies usually have an advantage over us boys in that area . . .
- Patience: It ain't gonna be easy and it may take a little longer than some, but there's no real reason not to . . .
- Warmth: On the clothes thing - remember you don't have to use specific 'ski' or 'board' gear for your first trip - especially if you go later in the season when its warmer.
Remember you don't have to use specific 'ski' or 'board' gear for your first trip - especially if you go later in the season when its warmer. Can use any outdoor waterproof jacket with a fleece.
Table: Fitness Preparation for Snowboarding
Read also: In-Depth Review: Demon Snowboard Protection
| Area of Focus | Exercises | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Cardio | Running, cycling, swimming | Improves endurance and stamina |
| Core Strength | Planks, crunches, Russian twists | Enhances stability and balance |
| Leg Strength | Squats, lunges, calf raises | Builds power for turning and control |
| Flexibility | Stretching, yoga | Reduces risk of injury |
How To Find The Perfect Snowboard Size
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