So, I've been snowboarding maybe 20 times or so.  I've never taken lessons, so I feel I've developed some bad habits.  I started snowboarding when I was around 14 or 15, but I'm only able to get out maybe once a year, so I'm no expert.   I knew how to wakeboard and skateboard so I assumed at the time I would be able to teach myself snowboarding too. 

I can make it down the mountain fine, but I have to do 180's in order to do it.    I'm not too sure what's toeside or heelside as I've never really cared to learn the specifics until now, so try to picture me going down the hill.  (and someone explain to me what toeside and heelside turns are....like what edge my board should be on in each)

I ride regular with my left foot facing the bottom of the hill.   I can turn to the right with no issues at all (my back is facing the bottom of hill), but when I straighten myself out and try to turn left (front facing downhill), I seem to do a 180.   I can't seem to keep my board angled to the left without the board spinning me around.   

I don't know if I'm maybe not leaning back enough or what?  Hopefully someone understands what's going on here and can give me some insight so I can get down the slopes normal this year.  I'm going to Big Powderhorn in 2 weeks and would like to get it right. 


Thanks everyone. 

position for toeside - pee like a boy
position for heelside - pee like a girl

LOL, that is awesome.  Great advise, yeah there is more too it, things like rhythm, timing, and coordination, but basic stances are fundamental.  They are the foundation of successful riding and cannot be practiced too much.

Weight shifts during transition from heel/toe and toe/heel are subtle but important.  For most applications shift weight up and over the front foot slightly, then settle slowly to center. 

Front toe in, back toe in...
Unweight board, twist board slightly.
Front heel in... back heel in...
Front toe in, back toe in...
Unweight board, twist board slightly.
Front heel in... back heel in...

Like that.  You will develop a rhythm to get flow.  Once you flow it is all there for you.  You are then free to move about the mountain in total control.

I recommend an instructor.  I was one for like 6 years and I must have helped thousands of people to snowboard better.  Yes, it does cost $$ but it is worth it due to the rewards you can get even from just one lesson.  (I wish my golf lesson was like that LOL).

Here are little secrets about hiring an instructor:
If it is mid season and the snow is powdery and good, take the lesson in the morning.  You will get better snow and a more energetic coach.  If it is spring and the snow is older, go in the afternoon.  By then the snow is softened up a little and the crowds are died down.  The afternoons provide more exclusive attention from the instructor since the group sizes are smaller.  Since you are experienced already, you may want to go private lesson if you can afford it.  Ask around the lodge who is the best instructor and REQUEST that person at the ski school office.

Hey, thanks people!    I'm heading up to a smaller moutain this weekend with a few buddies for a warm up session before we go to Powderhorn in Michigan, so I'll give this a try.    Hopefully I'll have some luck.