How to Position the Front Knee & Hip When Turning a Snowboard

Positioning your body on the snowboard is the key to smooth turns.
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Navigating the curves of the slopes on a snowboard can be daunting, but with the proper technique you can approach a difficult turn with confidence and ease. Simply rotate your lead knee and hip to switch the direction of your board. By using the correct body position, you can look like a pro and avoid potential injury.

    Step 1

    Approach the turn at a fairly comfortable speed. Bend your knees at a 45-degree angle to help keep your center of gravity low and balanced.

    Step 2

    Initiate the turn by rotating your front hip in one smooth motion. Your lead knee should stay perpendicular to the board as you turn. During high-speed turns, it is especially important to keep your front knee and hip aligned with the board through the turn in order to maintain balance.

    Step 3

    Rotate your lead hip again in the opposite direction to change your route. Try not to twist your front knee as you turn, or you could end up with a torn ligament or minor injury. To keep your upper body balanced, rotate your shoulders in the direction of the turn.

    Step 4

    Complete the turn by moving your lead hip until it is perpendicular to the snowboard. To turn the board 180 degrees, put your opposite hip in the lead.

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