How to Jump on a Snowboard

Are you wondering how to jump on a snowboard? The snowboard ollie is the simplest form of jump you can perform on a snowboard. This is also the jump you must perfect before you can move on to more difficult jumps. A basic jump on a snowboard is easy and can leave you with a feeling of freedom you will not be able to experience while simply enjoying the trail. Before you can jump, it is good to learn the mechanics of the idea.

Things you'll need:

• Snowboard
• Snowboarding equipment and safety gear

1. Make sure you're fastened. Leaning how to fasten the board to your feet is the first step in leaning how to jump. It does no good if when you leave the ground the board seems to decided it is perfectly happy gliding down the trail without you. Test your fasteners to make sure they are secure, then strap in. Make sure all straps are tight. Give them a good tug. You want to make sure they are both tight as well as secure.
2. Learn to balance. As a beginner in the snowboarding sport, you quickly learn that balance is something that is learned, not inherited. Go over some small hills to learn how it will feel as the board moves from you and to you. Let the motion become smooth and rhythmic.
   
3. Lift off. You're going to need some decent speed to perform any jump. Once you have your speed up and feel comfortable with the conditions, bend down to give as much power to your lift off as possible. Lean back to let the front of the board lift a little, then spring up with all your might. Control your lift, tilt your board to land smoothly with the snow as your ascend.

If you use small humps in the terrain when you lift, you can get more air. Practice this before you move on to something that offers more air. You must perfect the landing of any jump before you can move on to one that offers more danger. From there you can continue to 180s, grabs and flips. Good luck and be safe.

References:

Gallagher, Liam & Jesse Burtner. "Snowboarding: Learning to Ride Rrom All-Mountain to Park and Pipe."