Top 10 Snowboarding Tricks to Learn at Big Bear Resorts

By
Assunta Fadel
Updated
A snowboarder in mid-air performing an Ollie over a small jump in a snowy landscape.

Getting Started: The Basics of Snowboarding

Before diving into tricks, ensure you have a solid foundation in snowboarding. Mastering how to balance, turn, and stop will make learning new tricks much easier. At Big Bear Resorts, take advantage of beginner slopes to practice these basics.

The only way to get better at snowboarding is to get on your board and practice, practice, practice.

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Once you're comfortable on your board, it's time to familiarize yourself with the terrain. Spend some time exploring the different runs and getting a feel for the snow conditions. Knowing your environment is crucial for trick success.

Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Stay patient and focus on your progress. With determination and the right approach, you'll soon be ready to tackle more advanced tricks.

1. The Ollie: Your First Jumping Trick

The Ollie is a fundamental trick that serves as the foundation for many others. To perform an Ollie, bend your knees, pop the tail of your board down, and jump into the air. This trick helps you get accustomed to jumping and landing safely.

A close-up of a snowboarder's feet performing a nose grab in mid-air against a snowy background.

Practicing Ollies on flat ground is a great way to build confidence before trying them on small jumps. As you improve, you can incorporate it into other tricks, making it an essential skill in your snowboarding arsenal.

Master Basics Before Tricks

Before attempting tricks, focus on mastering fundamental skills like balance, turning, and stopping.

At Big Bear, look for gentle slopes or small terrain parks to practice your Ollies. With time, you'll find that this simple trick opens the door to a world of possibilities.

2. The 180: Spin with Style

Once you've mastered the Ollie, it's time to add some spin to your jumps with the 180. This trick involves rotating your body 180 degrees while in the air. Start on a flat surface before attempting it on jumps for better control.

It’s not about how good you are, but how much you enjoy it.

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Begin by doing a small Ollie and turning your shoulders in the direction you want to spin. Your board will follow your movement, so keep your eyes on where you want to land. The 180 is not only fun but also a great way to impress your friends.

Big Bear offers plenty of terrain where you can practice this trick safely. Remember to commit to the spin and enjoy the rush of landing it!

3. The Grab: Add Flair to Your Jumps

Grabbing your board while in the air is a fantastic way to add style to your jumps. There are various types of grabs, such as the method grab or the melon grab, each with its own flair. Start by practicing the grab while performing an Ollie.

To execute a grab, reach down and grab the edge of your snowboard with one hand while airborne. This not only looks cool but also helps you control your body position in the air. Focus on your balance and make sure to land safely.

Start Small, Build Confidence

Begin with simpler tricks and small jumps to gradually build your confidence and skill level.

At Big Bear, practice grabs on small jumps in the terrain parks. With time, you can experiment with different grabs and make them your own.

4. The Backside 180: A Step Up in Difficulty

After mastering the frontside 180, the backside 180 is your next challenge. This trick involves spinning in the opposite direction and requires more commitment. Start practicing on gentle slopes before tackling bigger jumps.

To perform a backside 180, approach the jump with confidence, wind up your shoulders, and look back as you initiate the spin. The key is to stay balanced and find your landing spot. It's a rewarding trick that showcases your progress.

Look for opportunities at Big Bear's terrain parks to try the backside 180. Embrace the challenge and celebrate each small victory as you improve.

5. The Board Slide: Sliding with Style

A board slide is a fun trick that involves sliding along a rail or a box. It's essential to learn how to approach and balance on the feature. Start small and practice on flat boxes before moving on to rails for safety.

To execute a board slide, approach the feature with a slight angle, jump, and land with your board across the rail. Focus on keeping your weight centered to maintain balance. The board slide is not only stylish but also a crowd-pleaser.

Practice Makes Perfect

Regular practice at locations like Big Bear will enhance your abilities and prepare you for more advanced tricks.

Big Bear has various rails and boxes perfect for practicing board slides. Take your time to build confidence and enjoy the thrill of sliding.

6. The Frontside 360: A Full Spin

Once you feel comfortable with 180s, it's time to tackle the frontside 360. This trick is a full spin in the air and requires confidence and commitment. Start with smaller jumps to practice your technique before attempting larger ones.

Approach the jump with speed and a solid Ollie, then rotate your shoulders while keeping your eyes on the landing. The key is to stay relaxed and focused as you complete the spin. The frontside 360 is a thrilling trick that will impress fellow snowboarders.

A panoramic view of a terrain park at Big Bear Resorts with snowboarders practicing tricks during sunset.

Look for suitable jumps at Big Bear to practice your frontside 360. Each attempt will sharpen your skills and boost your confidence!

7. The Nose Grab: A Classic Trick

The nose grab is a classic snowboarding trick that adds a stylish touch to your jumps. It involves grabbing the nose of your board while airborne, showcasing your control and creativity. Like other grabs, start on small jumps to build your confidence.

To perform a nose grab, pop off the jump, reach down, and grab the nose of your board with your front hand. This trick not only looks great but also helps you practice balance in the air. With practice, you'll master the nose grab and be able to incorporate it into other tricks.

Big Bear's terrain parks have perfect features for practicing nose grabs. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the process of perfecting this classic move.

8. The Rail Grind: Mastering the Art of Grinding

The rail grind is a more advanced trick that involves riding along a rail or box. It's a great way to showcase your skills and style on the mountain. Start by practicing on flat boxes before moving on to rails for safety.

To perform a rail grind, approach the feature with speed and jump onto it, landing with your board angled slightly. Focus on maintaining balance and keeping your weight centered while sliding. The rail grind is not only fun but also a great way to impress your friends.

Big Bear has an array of features perfect for practicing rail grinds. With determination and practice, you'll soon be grinding like a pro!