The above video is an example of what not to do and illustrates the worst-case consequences of getting it wrong. As a snowboarder, the T-bar can be one of the most challenging lifts to navigate. It requires a different technique than other lifts, and it can be a bit intimidating for beginners. However, with a bit of practice and some helpful tips, riding the T-bar can become a breeze. By researching the correct way to ride a T-bar and watching videos ahead of time, I was able to ride it successfully on my first try. You can to.
The T-bar lift is a type of lift that is often found on many ski slopes. It is a simple lift that consists of a T-shaped bar that you hold onto as it pulls you up the slope. The lift is designed for skiers and snowboarders, but it can be particularly challenging for snowboarders who are not used to the technique. At many resorts however, this will get you to some of the best terrain so it’s worth learning how to ride it.
Here are some tips on how to ride the T-bar as a snowboarder along with videos you might find helpful:
1. Choose the right terrain for your first ride
The T-bar lift is often found on beginner and intermediate slopes, but not all slopes are created equal. Look for a slope that is not too steep and has a relatively flat area at the top where you can safely get off the lift. Also, make sure the snow is not too icy, as this can make it difficult to maintain your line on the T-bar. Before you attempt this, make sure you are comfortable with one-footed riding and practice as necessary.
2. Get in position
Skate up to the loading area. It helped me to watch how other snowboarders were doing it for a while before I jumped in line. When you approach the T-bar lift, position yourself to the side of the lift line. Keep your snowboard parallel to the lift line. Relax. This will help you maintain your balance and ensure that you can grab the T-bar quickly when it comes around. Keep your head looking back in anticipation of the T-bar. The lift operator will hand you the bar.
3. Grab the T-bar
As you are handed the T-bar, stand up straight and grab it with both hands, bringing one arm of the T-bar down between your legs. Make sure that the T-bar arm is resting against your lead upper thigh. Place your rear foot on your board, keeping yourself centered over your board. Grip the top of the T-bar firmly with your lead hand with your downhill hand gripping either the opposite leg of the T-bar, or the perpendicular bar about a foot below your lead hand, whichever feels more comfortable. Just before you begin to move, slightly shift some of your weight to your back foot to compensate for the initial uphill acceleration.
4. Keep your balance
As the lift pulls you up the slope, you will need to maintain your balance. Keep your knees slightly bent and your weight centered over your board. If you feel yourself losing control, you're probably leaning too far back and should shift some weight to your front foot. Try to keep your snowboard flat on the ground. Avoid leaning too far forward, back, or to either side, as this can cause you to lose your balance. Relax, and don’t think too hard about it.
5. Look ahead
As you ride the T-bar, it's important to keep your head up and eyes looking ahead. Focus on the terrain in front of you and be prepared for any changes in the slope. Minor course corrections are your friend. Control your direction by applying slight pressure to your heel or toe edge. Avoid looking down at your snowboard or the T-bar.
6. Prepare to dismount
As you approach the top of the slope, start preparing to dismount the T-bar. Gently guide the T-bar out and away from you just before you reach the top, and skate forward with your back foot if necessary. As you come to a stop, try to keep your weight centered over your board, and be prepared to ride away smoothly.
7. Practice makes perfect
Riding the T-bar lift can take some practice, so don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. If you need to bail out, expeditiously move away from oncoming uphill traffic. Keep practicing on beginner slopes and focus on maintaining your balance and keeping your weight centered over your board. With time and practice, you'll soon be riding the T-bar like a pro.
Riding the T-bar lift as a snowboarder can be a bit challenging, but with a bit of practice and some helpful tips, it can become second nature. Make sure to choose the right terrain, get in position, grab the T-bar firmly, keep your balance, look ahead, prepare to dismount, and practice as much as you can. Soon enough, you'll be cruising up the slope with ease! If you have any helpful tips I've missed, please include them in the comments below. There are many videos about it to illustrate the points we’ve discussed, watch them until you have a good idea of how to do it right. Here is one which I found particularly helpful.
Add comment
Comments