How to Go Out Snowboarding

Take a Lesson

• Yeah, yeah, we know. Lessons are for wusses. Well guess what: You're a wuss. Unless you want to see your knee hanging casually around your neck, you'll need a snowboarding lesson. This initial investment will prove valuable. Here are the benefits of lessons:

  * The first day is always the roughest, so a lesson will help lessen the inevitable aches, pains and black and blues.

  * A lesson will help you build a solid repertoire of strong initial techniques.

  * A lesson will allow you to share your frustration and successes with other starters.

  * One of the largest benefits to taking a lesson is that you usually get to bypass all of the lift lines and get directly on the ski lift.

  You don't have to take 20 lessons; just take one and see how you feel. If your friends snicker, lie and say you got the lesson for free, so you might as well use it. That will save your rep. Here's what to expect in a snowboarding lesson:

  * The best way to get started is to head straight for the snowboard school at the resort and sign up for a group lesson. Lessons are usually given to groups of 5 to 10 people.

  * Lessons will teach the basics of stopping, turning, falling, skating (that is: getting around when only one foot is strapped into the board) and sliding on the board in different directions.

  * Lessons usually start with the very basics of snowboarding, such as balancing oneself on both edges (the toe and the heel), then gradually progress to the art of making turns in each direction (again both toeside and heelside).

  * Most group lessons range from 1-½ hours to half a day. The half-day lessons usually include the lift ticket.

  * Lessons are often grouped by ability level.

  * Private lessons are available, but these are usually targeted toward those who already know how to snowboard and just need help refining their skills. The high cost of a a full-day private lesson during the high season means that most people are economically placed out of this opportunity.

  Now you're all set to hit the slopes. One more thing: Don't forget to stretch. Whether it's your first or 51st time snowboarding, stretching will help your body not revolt on you the next morning.