Have Fun, Not Fractures, on
Snowboards
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| Snowboarding has grown quickly in popularity across the country and
in the U.P. Approximately 20 percent of the visitors to the Marquette Mountain
ski area are snowboarders. Snowboarding has developed into three different
types:
* Freestyle - using the half pipe for jumps and tricks * Free riding - using groomed services; "in between" freestyle and carving * Carving - very high speed; judged; not popular in Midwest. Andrew Bek, School of Radiography, is a member of the Marquette Mountain Ski Patrol.
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Andrew rides a snowboard while patrolling and highly recommends
snowboarding lessons to all beginners. Lessons the first day
can help riders learn basic skills and avoid unnecessary injuries.
As with any sport, injuries can occur with novice and expert skiers. The most common snowboarding accidents occur when falling with an outstretched arm (a common reflex when falling). This results in anterior shoulder dislocations and wrist sprains or fractures.
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Wrist guards, worn over gloves/mittens, can help to avoid sprained
or broken wrists. Helmets are designed for protection, yet allow for
good visibility and hearing.
Other tips: Remember to learn the Responsibility Code for all people riding the ski hill. * Take a couple of slow runs to warm up and scout out terrain and snow conditions. * Ski with a partner. * Stop when you get tired or cold. * Watch for several competitive snowboard events occurring at Marquette Mountain this winter/spring. Also, watch the Winter Olympics for snowboard competition as an exhibition sport. We'll see you on the slopes!
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Keep safety in mind when purchasing snowboarding
equipment. In addition to the board and bindings, consider buying
boots specific for snowboarding. Persistent ankle pain can actually
be an avulsion fracture of the talus which often results from wearing soft
boots (i.e. Sorels are a bad idea). 