Snowboard Set-up and Stance Adjustment
It is best to have the snowboard set up by a qualified technician at a reputable shop; however, it can be done by a coach. Start by inspecting all of the equipment for loose screws, missing parts, etc. Next, determine the athlete's stance.
Determining Stance
While many boards are made to be ridden forward and backward (fakie), each athlete will have a dominant foot that will remain forward in most situations. Most people have their left foot forward when riding a board. This is known as a Regular stance. Some athletes will prefer to ride with their right foot forward. This is known as a Goofy-foot Stance. It is not safe to assume that all of your athletes will ride with the same foot forward. Each rider has an individual preference that is not related to hand dominance. A good way to check your athlete for foot preference is to ask if they have engaged in similar board-sport activities (i.e., wake boarding, skateboarding and slalom skiing). If they have, they will most likely ride a snowboard in the same way. Another quick way to check stance is to use one of the following simple tests:
Method 1: Push Test
Have your athlete stand up straight with both feet placed together. Gently push your athlete forward from behind until he or she is forced to put a foot out to maintain balance. For uncomfortable athletes or those with balance problems, have another coach stand in front to prevent falls. In most cases, the foot that is used by the athlete to catch himself or herself will be the forward foot when riding.
Method 2: Ball Kick Test
Have your athlete kick a ball for you. In most cases the foot used for kicking will be the preferred front foot for your athlete. The final check will be to communicate constantly with your athlete as he or she learns to snowboard. It may take some time for your athlete to get comfortable with the equipment, and some measure of trial and error to be sure which foot should be forward.
Method 3: Push-up Test
Have your athlete get down in the push-up position. Ask the athlete to stand up out of the push-up position; the foot that steps forward first will be the dominant leg. In most cases, the foot that is the dominant leg will be the forward foot when riding.
Method 4: Slide Test
Have your athlete, while wearing socks, take a few steps and slide on a gymnasium floor. In most cases, the foot that is the dominant leg will be the forward foot when sliding.
Method 5: Skateboarding Test
If available, have your athlete ride a skateboard. Assistance with support may be necessary from the coach. The stance that the athlete finds most comfortable will be his or her stance.
Determining Stance Angles
Modern bindings have marks on the mounting pieces to help you determine the binding angle. In simple terms, you want both feet angles toward the front of the board with the front foot angle slightly more. People riding racing boards may use stance angles of up to 60 degrees, while freestyle riders may use a more neutral stance. Start your beginning athletes with a stance angle of 3-12 degrees for the back foot and 12-24 degrees for the front foot, as determined by what feels comfortable for the athlete. If, while riding, the athletes' toes drag in the snow, the stance angle should be increased. Once the basics have been learned, stance angles can be changed according to comfort and preference. As with stance, a certain amount of trial and error may be necessary.
