learning to snowboard at 40 guide

Learning to Snowboard at 40: Too Late, or Perfect Timing?

by Ben
Updated:

So, rumor has it you’ve hit the big 4-0. Congrats!

What’s more, you’re thinkin’ it’s high time you strapped on a snowboard and shredded the slopes like a pro.

But hold up—there’s that nagging little voice in the back of your head saying, 

“Dude, you’re 40. Is learning to snowboard at 40 even possible?” 

Well, fear not, my adventurous friend. As a qualified snowboard instructor of 10-years, I’ve taught people of all ages and generations. I even crossed into the 40s club myself this year!

Stay tuned. I’m about to drop some wisdom on you that’ll have you laughing in the face of those age-related doubts!

Am I Too Old To Learn To Snowboard?

No! Snowboarding can be learned at almost any age (within reason). 

In fact, I’m gonna show you that learning to snowboard at 40 might actually be the perfect time to start. So, buckle up buttercup, and let’s embark on this wild ride together!

Let's Break the Age Barrier

You know what dust we need to shake off first? 

This crusty old clichĂ© that snowboarding is a young man’s game. Mainstream media would have you believe that snowboarding is reserved for teenage daredevils and 20-something adrenaline junkies. 

If you fall for that, I’ve got an iceberg in the Sahara to sell ya!

The truth? Age ain’t nothing but a mental construct when it comes to cutting through the powder. There are vibrant veterans chasing horizons on the slopes, making 40 look like the new 20.

The snow doesn’t care if you were born in the era of disco or dubstep—it’s all about skill, guts, and spirit. And let’s not ignore the fact that we, the over-40 crowd, bring bucketloads of life experience to the table. 

Or should I say mountain?

What does life experience have to do with it, you ask? 

Well, at 40, we’ve seen things, man. 

We’ve honed our problem-solving skills, developed patience, and cultivated a knack for not freaking out when things go sideways—all crucial traits for new snowboarders.

Plus, admit it, we’ve got the wisdom to know when to take a break for hot cocoa (with a sneaky splash of Baileys – cause we’re adults).

So, next time someone spouts off about snowboarding being a young person’s sport, strap on that snowboard, slide down that mountain, and show ’em how the grown-ups do it!

No Time Like the Present!

If you’re waiting for a sign to start snowboarding, this is it!

And if you’re waiting for another sign, I’ll spell it out for you: T-H-I-S-I-S-I-T. 

The “right” time is a mythical unicorn we all chase, but lemme tell ya, the best time to do something wild, challenging, and ridiculously fun is… drumroll please… NOW! 

this is the sign you've been waiting for

In case you haven’t noticed, your 40s are a rollercoaster ride of epic proportions. It’s like a taco with all the good stuff—career progression, family time, social life, maybe buying that dream car. So why not add a sprinkle of mountain snow into the mix? 

Life’s already a beautiful chaos, so embrace it.

Snowboarding doesn’t just add a dash of cool factor to your Instagram feed (although those mountain selfies are a spectacular bonus). It’s the thrill of a new adventure and a jolt to your usual routine. 

Plus, it’s a chance to share a unique bonding experience with your family and pals. Imagine the stories of triumph and {ahem} not-so-graceful falls you’d share over a beer after a day on the slopes.

start now!

Some folks would tell you to take a snooze in front of the telly once you hit 40. I say, turn off the TV, toss the remote, and swap that couch for a snowboard! 

Here’s to snowflakes in your face, wind in your hair, and thAT sweet taste of freedom.

So, is it too late to start snowboarding at 40? Nah, mate, it’s just the right time!

A Body That's Ready for Action

Alright, I feel you. 

You’re revvin’ to get onto the slopes, but there’s one little worry poking at you: “Do I have the BODY for this?”

Well, pull up a comfy chair, grab a beer (or protein shake) —whatever floats your boat—and let’s have a chinwag about the physical side of things.

Firstly, let’s squash this bug called “I’m too old to start snowboarding.” 

Sure, you’re not a rubbery 16-year-old anymore. But hey, who wants all that adolescent angst anyway? Got a few wrinkles? Big deal. Maybe some gray strands? Gives you character. A couple more aches and pains than before? Welcome to the club!

1. Assess Your Fitness

Sure, snowboarding is a physical sport, but it’s not about cartwheeling down a mountain like a Marvel superhero—although that might net you some serious style points. It’s about control, balance, and a little explosiveness when you need it.

Now do you need to get in shape for snowboarding? Dude. Are polar bears white? Absolutely. But are we talking Olympic-level fitness? Nah. 

If you’re able to go out on a gentle jog, cycle or even walk, you’re fit enough to give snowboarding a try!

2. Strengthen Up

A good start would be improving your overall strength, flexibility, and cardio. 

The good news? You’ve probably got more discipline and dedication in our little finger than those youngsters have in their whole bodies. We’re harder to kill than a cockroach in a nuclear war!

To begin with, focus on building your leg strength (you’ll need them tree trunks to guide you down the hill). Work a bit on your core; it’s key for balancing and preventing injuries. 

Here’s a handy training video to come back to. 

3. Limber up

Keep limber with some flexibility exercises; your body will thank you when you bend like a slinky instead of breaking like a stick. And don’t forget cardio (yes, even if it’s chasing the kids or the dog around the yard).

As always, listen to your body. Rest when you need to, and remember: progress, not perfection is the aim. 

4. Warm Up

Most importantly, never underestimate the power of a good warm-up and cool-down. They’re like the pre-drink and nightcap of snowboarding. Get them right, and you’ll be carving up the mountain in no time.

Heck, at the end of this, you might even be in better shape than you were in your 20s. So goodbye couch potato, hello Greek god. Now go out there, and show that mountain who’s boss!

stretching for snowboarding at 40

Best Stretches for Snowboarders

Learning the Ropes: Tips for Mature Beginners

Alright, you’re excited, you’re motivated, and you’ve already started practicing your end-of-run victory pose in front of the mirror. 

But let’s focus on getting down the mountain before we break out the champagne, shall we?

Here are a few key tips for you 40-something newbies ready to ravage the slopes:

1. Gear Up

Firstly, don’t even think about borrowing your teenage nephew’s psychedelic snowboard. Investing in quality gear that’s tailored to your body, skill level, and style will make a world of difference.

Turn to knowledgeable folks in your local snowboard shop or even the interwebs (I’m somewhat of a gear expert myself, you know?) to help you start off on the right foot…or board.

Oh, and don’t forget some protective gear. You’re welcome!

2. Lessons Are Gold

Beginner’s lessons ain’t just for toddlers and teens—they’re for anyone bold enough to admit they’re a greenhorn. Professional instructors have seen it all; we can help smoothen out your beginner bumps, prevent bad habits from forming, and, most importantly, teach you how to fall without breaking yourself.

3. Safety First, Folks

Yeah, yeah, it sounds like something your mum would nag about, but trust us, wearing a helmet is cooler than a concussion. Wrist guards can save you from a sprained wrist and butt pads… well, you get the picture. Safety gear is like insurance—better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

4. Pace Yourself

Remember, we’re not in a Fast & Furious movie. It’s okay to take it slow and steady. Those hotshot teens zooming past you are likely to be the ones icing down their bumps and bruises at the end of the day, while you’re enjoying a celebratory brewski.

5. Embrace the Falls

No sugarcoating it; you’ll fall… a LOT. Welcome each fall as part of the journey—a hilarious, humbling part of the journey.

Treat every tumble as a chance to learn, to adjust your technique, and, most importantly, to laugh at yourself. Hey, if you’re not falling, you’re not trying!

embracing the falls! learning to snowboard at 40

6. Practice Patience

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and newsflash: you’re not gonna be landing backflips on the first day (or the second… or likely even the first season). Snowboarding is a skill that takes time to master. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and remember to enjoy the ride.

Rounding Up

That’s it, newbies. Follow these golden rules, and before you know it, you’ll be the one giving tips to fresh-faced snowboard rookies. Now, ready to get out there and make the mountain yours? P.S.: I’m totally expecting an invite to your end-of-season victory party!

The Perks of Getting Older

Whoever said, “youth is wasted on the young” wasn’t wrong. But age is not all doom and gloom. Once you hit the senior bracket, things get really fun. It’s not just wisdom you’ve got in spades; there are fiscal benefits too.

The Holy Grail of Aging

Remember when old meant boring? Yeah, me neither. Being older (usually) comes with more disposable income, you’re not confined to early-bird dinners and free coffee refills. 

You’ll be getting the good stuff – we’re talking early access lift tickets, premium equipment, maybe even a cheeky whiskey after a long day’s shredding. There are a few other perks too. 

  • Vacation Packages: Having a few dollars to your name can unlock five-star resorts, full board, and exclusive mountain access. Can’t ignore that!
  • Lift Passes: As soon as you hit that magic age number (varies, but usually around 65), many resorts start rolling out the red carpet – in the form of discounted lift passes. Alright, if you’ve only just turned 40, this is a way off – but still!
  • Equipment: You’re probably in a much better position to buy whatever gear you want (compared to your cash-strapped younger compadres). If you’re less trend-focused, you can even buy last seasons lineup at a huge discount. Prices come down faster than me on a double black diamond (and believe me, that’s fast).

Join the Pack

You’re unlikely to be alone in learning to snowboard at 40. 

You’re aware there are hundreds and thousands of older people in the same position as you, just looking to enjoy this pastime in the best possible way? 

Not sure where to start?

Look out for snowboarding groups or clubs to join up with. There are also adult-focused group snowboard lessons.

Not only is this an excellent way to socialize, but also a fantastic way to swap gear tips. Remember to bring that sense of humor along for the ride. Uncle jokes are welcome around these bonfires!

Wrapping It Up: Is 40 the Right Time?

If you’ve tottered this far down the page, you might be wondering if that old proverb “life begins at 40” extends its wisdom to the wild and wonderful world of snowboarding.

So, is 40 the new 20 on the slopes? Can you teach an old dog new slides? 

Let’s bust open this snow globe and stir up some answers!

1. It's All About the Attitude

So, as you’ve crawled into the fourth decade, are you doomed to spectate from the sidelines?

Hell no!

What, you still think snowboarders are all zit-faced, energy-drink-guzzling youths who pronounce ‘awesome’ as ‘sick’? Alright, maybe some of them are, but many are mature shred-heads just like you and me!

40 is a state of mind, pal, and if your state of mind is ‘I can do this,’ then strap in my friend; we’ve got some mountains to conquer!

2. Age is Just a Number

Look, age might guide your choice in evening TV programming (c’mon, some of those crime dramas are pretty gripping) or influence your natural bedtime (let’s not even talk about those 3 am late-night parties), but it doesn’t determine who can be a kickass snowboarder.

The average age of snow sports enthusiasts is actually rising. There’s no upper age limit. 

If there was, then they’d have age markers at the chairlift like some wonky roller coaster. Can you imagine that? “Sorry, sir, we think your arthritis level is too high for this ride”? 

Nah, that ain’t happening!

3. The Over-40 Perks

As a quadragenarian (phew, try saying that after a few brews), you’ve got some aces up your sleeve. 

Patience? Heck yeah, you’ve got oodles of it. Perspective? You refined that fine wine over decades. Financial security? Fingers crossed! 

All this equates to more patience to practice, less pressure to be a pro overnight, and a few spare bucks to invest in some top-notch gear.

4. The Best Time is NOW

In case you are still wandering in the foggy forest of indecision valley, here’s a direct answer for you: It ain’t a matter of being 40, 50, or a centenarian snowboarder. It’s a matter of right here, right now.

As a snowboard instructor, my oldest client is 77-years old. That’s right, you read that correctly!

Conclusion

The mountain doesn’t give a hoot about your birth year—it’s waiting for ya, icy peaks gleaming, fresh tracks beckoning, and with a few snowy surprises in store.

All this to say, if you’re knocking on 40’s door (or hey, even if 40 is a long-gone blip in your rear-view mirror), don’t think for a second you’re “too old” to embark on the trailblazing, adrenaline-pumping journey of snowboarding.

Dust off your doubts, revamp those expectations and shoot straight for the summit.

And hey, if all else fails, remember: at least you’re not a skier! So go on, my silver-streaked stallions, show ’em how it’s done! 

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