Snowboarding is a youthful sport because of its link with the skating and surf culture. While most riders are under the age of 30, many people ask if there is an age restriction to this fantastic outdoor hobby. With that in mind, could someone be considered too old to learn how to snowboard?
It’s never too late to learn snowboarding, whether you’re 30, 40, or 50 years old. First, however, you need to know the variations in learning to snowboard at different ages. Furthermore, if you’re a beginner, you can improve your snowboarding skills even when you’re in your sixties.
Ski industry professionals believe it’s never too late to start downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country schussing, or snowshoeing, much as health experts have been saying for years regarding exercise and fitness programs. So with that in mind, let’s examine snowboarding at an older age despite the apparent fitness requirements.
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Does Snowboarding Have A Maximum Age Limit?
“Isn’t snowboarding dangerous?” can be a question you get from friends and loved ones who know you’ve taken up snowboarding at a later age. As a result, let’s start with two brief thoughts to answer that question.
In the first place, there are risks in everything you do in life, whether it’s tumbling down a mountain or just getting out of the shower. You cannot eliminate risks, but you may reduce them.
It leads to the second point: snowboarding may be dangerous, especially if you aren’t adequately equipped with the right gear, act thoughtlessly, and of course, suffer an illness or injury that would prevent you from cruising on a snowboard.
If none of the above issues prevent you from learning how to snowboard, then now is the perfect time to visit some of the top snowy destinations you’ve always wanted to visit!
With a bit of practice and repetition, you’ll be able to ride down some of the world’s most beautiful slopes and experience the excitement of carving up some new powder. It may be intimidating to learn a new activity as an adult, and snowboarding is no exception.
That said, the benefits of snowboarding much exceed the hazards; all you have to do is start slowly, take some lessons, and enjoy the ride. With that in mind, let’s take a further look at the various age gaps and what you may expect when you enter the adrenaline-pumping world of snowboarding.
Learning How To Snowboard Over 30
Honestly, I believe that 30 is the new 20 these days. With so many healthy individuals in their 30’s running around and competing in all sorts of adrenaline-infused activities that it may even make snowboarding seem like child’s play! That said, safety always comes first and should always be encouraged, no matter the activity.
With a bit more energy and the ability to take a few extra falls compared to your older generation, learning how to snowboard in your 30’s could be a walk in the park. In fact, with the right snowboarding teacher, it would be a walk in the park for any age.
Many individuals in their mid-30s still have fancy tricks up their sleeves. Attempting backflips, hitting handrails, or even achieving some serious big air off slopes, and more are all tricks you could achieve too!
However, what are the only difference between their 30’s and when they were in their twenties? They are more prone to being hurt, and healing any injury may take a bit longer. On the other hand, many 20-year-olds recovered from injuries in weeks, even if they were fractured bones.
After a later age, if they allow themselves to take a severe beating, they tend to feel it for a much more extended period. That said, when learning to hit the slops in your 30’s, it is essential to take things a bit more easy until you master every move. I like to stick to the motto “Small Wins Matter.”
As a result, you’re not entirely benched from all the crazy stunts and tricks; just be sure to practice tricks in smaller measurements and increase your skill over time. Getting older does come with its pros and cons, but not entirely for snowboarding in your 30’s.
So if you’re in your 30’s and considering taking up snowboarding, don’t sell yourself short! Snowboarding can still be taught and mastered in this age group!
Learning How To Snowboard Over 40 And 50
If you can devote enough time and commitment to the activity, learning to snowboard from the ground up beyond 40 is absolutely possible. Here are some of the most mutual difficulties that older riders confront while riding.
Older novice snowboarders must adjust to spending a lot of time sitting or kneeling on the ground, whether putting on or taking off bindings or resting. Crouching and bending can be difficult on the knees, and “wet butt syndrome” isn’t for everyone.
Also, snowboarders must unclip their rear binding at the peak and bottom of each run and occasionally in between, for example, to skate sideways past lift lines. Newbie elder riders may find skating or jump down small cat tracks and off ski lifts difficult.
Learning to ride necessitates a high level of fitness and agility, and it may be taxing on the body for individuals over the age of 40. In addition, a lack of flexibility can cause injury, and older bodies are less able to recover from dangerous maneuvers as quickly as younger physiques.
Beginner snowboarders are also prone to fall a lot on their knees and coccyx until they get the swing of things. Of course, falling 20 times a day isn’t a massive concern for a youngster, but it’s a different story when you’re in your forties and fifties.
The most prevalent injuries for older riders, aside from knees, are hip, back, and neck problems, as these bones become increasingly weak as you age.
Adult students are more prone to break a bone, and when they do, the recuperation time is far longer than that of a teenager. Not only can falling hurt more as you get older, but if you are harmed, you may have to take time off from plenty of other activities, including your job. Consider these dangers before boarding the ski lift.
For novice snowboarders in their 40s and 50s, gaining the courage to ride among younger or more experienced riders is another obstacle. Nobody wants to be the one who has to keep the team waiting.
It should not stop you from learning how to snowboard with that in mind. I’ve seen a few riders outperform some experienced younger riders many times, and some of them only had two years of training. However, they tend not to risk the more dangerous tricks while still having a blast!
Reasons To Start Snowboarding Even If You’re “Old”
Snowboarding is a fun, adrenaline-filled method for older adults to include sports into their training regimen, thanks to its high-velocity stunts and attractive gear. However, it’s not too late to get a new snowboard just because you’ve turned towards your golden years.
Regular snowboarding has a lot of health benefits for older people, but you should be aware of the danger of injury before you begin.
Snowboarding: The Basics
Snowboarding is a hybrid sport that combines the aspects of winter sports like skiing with the style and technique of surfing.
Snowboarding is similar to skiing in that it includes coasting or riding down a snow-covered hill, but instead of using separate skis for each foot, the rider buckles both feet into a set of boots that are connected to a single board.
The actions required to navigate the slope are similar to those used in surfing: Switching and balancing your weight between the toe and heel edges of the board is required. It’s ideal to go riding with an instructor when you first start.
Adult starting classes are usually available at resorts, but if they aren’t, try booking a private session to avoid the more child-oriented teaching style.
Exercise In Your 40’s
In your 40s, a combination of aerobic and strength-training workouts is critical. Not only does your risk of cardiovascular illness rise as you become older, but your musculature shortens, your bones weaken, and your balance is disrupted, necessitating more strength-training workouts.
After years of the same old fitness regimen, trying a new activity like snowboarding may be just what you need to remain in shape, especially during the winter months when people are more likely to stay indoors.
Snowboarding may burn up to 450 calories each hour, and riding the slopes will keep your muscles toned by using the core and lower body muscles.
Increase In Flexibility
During skiing and snowboarding, the technique of balancing and activating the core and essential muscle groups makes the body more flexible. It also aids in the deterrence of muscular strains and sprains.
Snowboarding, in particular, dramatically increases flexibility by requiring the body to shift directions frequently and quickly. Families should stretch before and after a day on the slopes to prevent injury.
Positively Boosts Overall Mood
Increased endorphin production is induced by being outside and exercising, resulting in emotions of relaxation and enjoyment. Vitamin D exposure to the sun may also assist families, which is especially crucial in the winter when the days are shorter.
There Are Plenty Of Senior Riders Out There
According to John LaPlante, snowboarding is particularly well-suited for older folks, a snowboarding instructor and administrator of the website Grays on Trays, a community devoted toward senior snowboarders.
It is easier on the knees to snowboard than ski, and it is an excellent way for the whole family to get in some exercise. While learning to snowboard might be challenging for older folks who aren’t used to being “beginners,” the excitement of mastering a new skill later in life can be thrilling.
Snowboarding allows you to meet fantastic individuals, which may help you bond with others, and you’d be surprised at how many seniors still hit the slopes! It also boosts your self-esteem, which helps you improve your interpersonal abilities.
Understanding Safety Measures And The Risks
Snowboarding has around double the injury risk of regular skiing, with about five injuries per 1,000 riders daily. Snowboarding injuries are most often to the wrists due to breaking a fall, while skiing injuries are more common in the lower body.
A doctor may not allow you to snowboard if you have bone and joint issues, such as osteoporosis or arthritis. Also, when deciding whether or not to snowboard, consider any conditions that make you susceptible to cold, such as Raynaud’s syndrome.
To limit your chance of injury once you’re on the slopes, make sure you’re wearing correctly fitted equipment, such as a helmet and wrist guards. It’s also essential to stretch and hydrate before you start. Finally, to maintain perfect form and technique, start slowly and follow the instructions of a snowboarding teacher.
The Basic Gear Requirements For Beginners
Your first snowboarding excursion may be both thrilling and nerve-wracking. However, your excitement at the prospect of doing a new and delightful activity should not be dampened by your fear.
Instead, taking the time to make sure you’re prepared will ensure that your first time snowboarding is an excellent experience that will leave you wanting more. This checklist will guarantee that you are adequately equipped for your snowboarding adventure.
Remember that, despite this being a numbered list, each thing is equally significant. It’s also worth noting that, while several of these goods may be leased at the resort, you should purchase most of the apparel items before the trip.
Snowboard And Bindings Comes First
If you don’t have your own snowboard or bindings, the resort will rent them to you. Depending on the style you want to try, you can rent different types of boards (alpine, freestyle, and freeride). Freestyle boards are ideal for beginners since they are shorter and more straightforward to manage.
Your board will also come with bindings. These secure your boots to the board and are available in various sizes to accommodate your boots. If you are renting, the resort staff will assist you in making your pick so that you are well prepared.
Boots For Snowboarding
The bindings on these specialty boots will connect you to your board. These are also available for hire at the resort; however, it is not advised. Snowboard boots are precisely created to fit your feet, so having your own pair will be significantly more comfortable.
Snowboard boots are available in standard shoe sizes, although sizing varies by manufacturer. Your boots should be snug but not so tight that they hinder your movement.
Socks For Snowboarding
Because cold feet may rapidly ruin your day, snowboard socks are necessary. In addition, because your feet will sweat due to the heat of your boots, you’ll require moisture-wicking socks.
Because your boots are already insulated, thin, synthetic socks are ideal. However, your feet will sweat and lose warmth if your socks are overly thick. Also, your socks should be high enough to prevent discomfort from your skin rubbing against your boots.
A Snowboarding Helmet
The brain is the most important organ in your body, so wearing a helmet makes sense. In addition, because you may struggle with control as a novice, keeping your head safe is critical. If you don’t have your own helmet, the resort will provide a variety of rental alternatives to guarantee that you locate one that fits.
Jacket And Pants For Snowboarding
A wind and waterproof outer shell are required for a practical snowboard jacket. The jacket should also be breathable, allowing perspiration to leave while keeping you warm. Because the weather on the mountain may change on a dime, having a temperature-controlling jacket is essential for being comfortable throughout the day.
Your pants, like your jacket, should be weatherproof and breathable. Snowboard pants keep water out of your body when your body comes into contact with the snow.
Don’t Forget The Middle And Base Layers
Under your jacket and slacks, you should wear base and mid-layers. Staying warm on very chilly days necessitates good foundation layers. You should avoid cotton items since they are neither breathable nor waterproof. Instead, synthetic fabrics, such as wool, are suitable for wicking sweat and keeping the body at a reasonable temperature.
On cold days, you should wear a mid-layer over the base. Fleeces, sweaters, sweatshirts, and other typical clothing items that enhance warmth are considered mid-layers.
Gloves For Snowboarding
Snowboard gloves that are both insulated and waterproof are also essential. These customized gloves will safeguard your hands from coming into touch with the snow regularly. Durability is also essential since a regular ride will put your gloves to the test.
Goggles For Snowboarding
While riding, snowboard goggles reduce brightness and protect your eyes from the snow and wind. Goggles are a must-have piece of equipment when riding down a mountain since snow and debris can fly in your face.
It’s time to ride once you’ve ticked everything off this list. If your first excursion goes well, you’ll want to get out there again!
Conclusion
You can learn to snowboard over the age of 40 as long as you don’t have a crippling health problem and are in decent shape. Even if there is no right age to start snowboarding, older snowboarders have the advantage of being more mature and aware of their boundaries than younger snowboarders.
After 40, if you’ve been riding since you were a kid, you might want to ease off on the jumps and rails. However, if you’re in good form, there’s no reason to cut back any further on your riding. So slow down, remember that “Small Wins Matter,” and go out there and start winning at life!
I’m an aged skateboarder and still shred responsibly. Started skateboarding 25 years ago, peaked in the 2000’s, and still ride to this day. I am a total geek when it comes to skateboard gear, love test to stuff and share my findings.