How to Start Big Air Skiing and Snowboarding

ebook include PDF & Audio bundle (Micro Guide)

$12.99$11.99

Limited Time Offer! Order within the next:

We will send Files to your email. We'll never share your email with anyone else.

Big Air skiing and snowboarding are adrenaline-pumping winter sports that require a blend of skill, courage, and a keen understanding of the snow environment. If you're eager to take your skiing or snowboarding to the next level, mastering Big Air is an exciting challenge. While the idea of soaring through the air on a large jump may seem daunting at first, with the right approach, dedication, and safety precautions, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know to start big air skiing and snowboarding, from building your foundational skills to learning how to safely perform tricks in the air. Whether you're a beginner skier or snowboarder or looking to break into the world of freestyle riding, this article will provide the knowledge and tools to take your skills to new heights.

Understanding Big Air Skiing and Snowboarding

Big Air is a discipline in both skiing and snowboarding where athletes launch themselves off large ramps or jumps and perform aerial tricks before landing back on the snow. The term "Big Air" often refers to the sheer height of the jump as well as the complexity of the tricks performed in the air. In competitions, riders are judged on their air time, creativity, and the difficulty of their tricks.

The key to success in Big Air is mastering the basic techniques of skiing or snowboarding before you ever attempt a jump. Once you're comfortable with your equipment and riding style, you can start practicing smaller jumps and gradually work your way up to the more significant, intimidating ramps.

Big Air requires a unique combination of skill sets:

  • Takeoff: Properly launching off the ramp with the correct body position.
  • In-air control: Maintaining balance and executing tricks while airborne.
  • Landing: Ensuring a smooth and controlled landing to avoid injury.

Types of Jumps

There are several types of Big Air jumps, and understanding their differences is crucial to successfully navigating them. Typically, Big Air jumps can be broken down into two categories:

  1. Kickers: These jumps have a steep takeoff that provides a more vertical trajectory. They're ideal for executing vertical tricks, flips, and spins.
  2. Tabletops: Tabletop jumps feature a flatter takeoff with a large, wide landing area, reducing the risk of harsh landings. They are more forgiving for beginners and help build confidence for bigger jumps.

Regardless of the type of jump, mastering the basics of takeoff, aerial control, and landing is essential for a smooth progression into Big Air.

Building the Foundation: Skiing and Snowboarding Basics

Before you even think about Big Air, you need to have a strong grasp of the basics of skiing or snowboarding. Without proper technique, attempting a Big Air jump can result in a crash, injury, or loss of confidence.

Skiing Basics

If you're new to skiing, begin by mastering the fundamentals:

  • Snowplow and Parallel Turns: You should be able to control your speed and carve through turns. The snowplow technique helps you control your speed and direction, while parallel skiing allows for smooth carving and turning.
  • Edge Control: Mastering edge control is crucial for skiing in all conditions, especially when you're on the takeoff ramp of a jump.
  • Balance: Skiing requires a lot of balance, particularly when you are in motion. Work on maintaining a centered stance while skiing.

Once you've become comfortable with basic skiing techniques, it's time to progress to carving, navigating slopes, and learning to ski in various conditions.

Snowboarding Basics

If you're starting with snowboarding, the process is similar but involves different equipment and techniques:

  • Regular vs. Goofy: Identify whether you're a regular or goofy rider (the foot you lead with). This will affect how you ride and perform tricks.
  • Turning and Stopping: Learning to turn and stop safely is critical. Practice on gentle slopes until you feel comfortable switching between heel-side and toe-side turns.
  • Balance and Body Position: A good snowboarder maintains a balanced posture with a slightly bent knee and a centered stance. Learning to adjust your body position for optimal control is key.

Snowboarders also need to focus on balance, control, and carving techniques before progressing to higher skill levels like jumping and tricks.

Preparing for Big Air: Progression and Training

Before launching off big jumps, it's essential to build up your skills progressively. Start by working on smaller jumps to get used to the sensation of air time and learn the mechanics of takeoff and landing.

Start with Small Jumps

If you're new to Big Air, begin by practicing on small ramps or beginner-friendly jumps. These will allow you to focus on the basics of air control and landing without the added risk of a large jump. Some key things to focus on here include:

  • Jumping off the Lip: When approaching the jump, focus on getting a solid, controlled takeoff. The takeoff should feel smooth and confident.
  • In-air Balance: Once in the air, maintain a stable position with your knees slightly bent and your body centered. Avoid stiffening up, as it may result in an unstable landing.
  • Landings: Practice absorbing the shock of landing by flexing your knees and keeping your weight evenly distributed.

Build Your Air Time

One of the most important aspects of Big Air is building air time. The longer you're in the air, the more time you have to perform tricks. You can increase your air time by:

  • Building speed: Speed is essential for generating the lift you need for big jumps. Make sure you have enough momentum when you hit the takeoff.
  • Proper Takeoff: A strong takeoff involves using your legs to push off the jump's lip while keeping your body compact and centered. This will help you get more height and control.
  • Edge Control: Ensuring your edges are sharp and controlled as you hit the ramp is crucial for a smooth and safe takeoff.

Practice Tricks on the Ground

Before launching into Big Air, it's a good idea to practice some tricks on flat ground. This includes:

  • 180s and 360s: Start by practicing spins on the ground and gradually move them to small jumps. These are foundational tricks that will help you with more complex aerial maneuvers.
  • Grabs: Learning how to grab your board or skis while airborne is a great way to enhance your style and control.
  • Flips: Work on smaller flips or rolls on trampolines or in a safe, controlled environment to get used to the feeling of rotation.

Once you're comfortable performing basic aerial tricks, it's time to move on to bigger jumps and more complex maneuvers.

Mastering the Big Air: Advanced Techniques

When you're ready to tackle larger jumps, you'll need to start refining your technique and trick repertoire. Here's what you need to know for more advanced Big Air skiing and snowboarding.

Approach the Ramp with Confidence

As you approach a Big Air jump, it's crucial to maintain a controlled but aggressive approach. This involves:

  • Speed: Ensure you're going fast enough to get the necessary lift from the ramp. If you're too slow, you may not make it into the air or, worse, crash.
  • Focus: Stay focused on your line, ensuring you are properly aligned with the takeoff and aiming to hit the ramp with precision.

Execute Complex Aerial Tricks

Once you're in the air, it's time to show off your skills. Some common advanced tricks include:

  • Spins: These can range from 180s to 1080s and beyond. The more spins you add, the more difficult the trick becomes.
  • Flips: A backflip or frontflip is one of the most impressive tricks in Big Air. Performing a flip involves careful body control and ensuring you have enough air time to complete the rotation.
  • Grabs: As you jump, you can reach down and grab your skis or snowboard in various ways, such as a mute grab or indy grab. These grabs add flair to your tricks and improve your control.

Landing Like a Pro

The landing is one of the most critical parts of Big Air. A bad landing can result in injury, so mastering the art of landing smoothly is key. Focus on:

  • Spotting the Landing: While airborne, try to spot where you'll land. This will help you prepare for the impact.
  • Absorbing the Impact: As you approach the landing, bend your knees and keep your weight centered over your feet to absorb the shock.
  • Staying Loose: Keep your body relaxed as you land to prevent injury. Tightening up will make you more prone to falling.

Safety Considerations

Safety is the top priority when attempting Big Air skiing or snowboarding. The risks involved in jumping off large ramps and performing aerial tricks are significant, but they can be minimized with proper precautions.

Wear Protective Gear

At the very least, always wear:

  • Helmet: This is the most important piece of safety equipment. A helmet will protect your head during falls or crashes.
  • Pads: Wrist guards, knee pads, and back protectors can reduce the risk of injury during falls.
  • Proper Ski or Snowboard Gear: Make sure your skis, snowboard, boots, and bindings are in good condition and properly fitted.

Start with Professional Lessons

If you're serious about progressing in Big Air skiing or snowboarding, it's highly recommended to take professional lessons. A trained instructor will teach you proper techniques, guide you through progression steps, and ensure you're practicing safely.

Understand Your Limits

It's essential to understand your own limits and not push yourself too hard too quickly. Building your skills gradually and consistently is the key to long-term success in Big Air. Take time to master smaller jumps before moving to bigger ramps and more complex tricks.

Conclusion

Big Air skiing and snowboarding are some of the most exhilarating and rewarding experiences you can have on the snow. With dedication, practice, and the right mindset, anyone can learn to perform impressive tricks and launches from huge jumps. The key is starting slow, mastering the basics, progressing step-by-step, and always prioritizing safety. As you build your confidence and skill, the sky is the limit -- quite literally!

10 Fun and Affordable Hobbies and Activities for Every Budget
10 Fun and Affordable Hobbies and Activities for Every Budget
Read More
How to Style Slip Dresses for Versatility
How to Style Slip Dresses for Versatility
Read More
How to Audit Smart Contracts for Security
How to Audit Smart Contracts for Security
Read More
How to Budget for a Wedding
How to Budget for a Wedding
Read More
How to Learn Data Structures and Algorithms for Software Development
How to Learn Data Structures and Algorithms for Software Development
Read More
10 Tips for Preventing Medication Errors in the Pharmacy
10 Tips for Preventing Medication Errors in the Pharmacy
Read More

Other Products

10 Fun and Affordable Hobbies and Activities for Every Budget
10 Fun and Affordable Hobbies and Activities for Every Budget
Read More
How to Style Slip Dresses for Versatility
How to Style Slip Dresses for Versatility
Read More
How to Audit Smart Contracts for Security
How to Audit Smart Contracts for Security
Read More
How to Budget for a Wedding
How to Budget for a Wedding
Read More
How to Learn Data Structures and Algorithms for Software Development
How to Learn Data Structures and Algorithms for Software Development
Read More
10 Tips for Preventing Medication Errors in the Pharmacy
10 Tips for Preventing Medication Errors in the Pharmacy
Read More