Conditioning
Learning to ride starts with being in shape to handle it. The hardest part of conditioning is getting started and staying with a program. Mountain biking is a great form of pre-season conditioning, as it helps to develop the same muscle groups that we use when we snowboard. In addition to the muscle development, mountain biking also improves our balance.

I personally find that longboarding is great training, especially if you walk up the hills. The weight distribution is also very similar to snowboarding. The biggest difference between a skateboard and a snowboard is the skateboard's turning comes from a center point (the kingpin in the truck) and a snowboard is turned by transitioning from edge to edge. The edge transition is almost identical to that of a wakeboard, although it is much easier to "catch an edge" on a snowboard. Keep in mind that the weight distribution on a wakeboard is placed on the back of the board. Do not carry this over to snowboarding. Click here to read an explanation of weight distribution on a snowboard. Also, I find jumping on a trampoline is wonderful conditioning for aerial tricks.

It goes without saying that any physical activity aimed at conditioning the body should have a warm up and warm-down period. This will help to prevent injury. It is very important to stretch all parts of the body, neck, hands, legs etc. Snowboarding is a demanding sport and by having your entire body in shape you can avoid sprains and strains. This small investment of time at the front end will pay back large dividends by not shortening your season through a muscle related injury. I always stretch really well before I ride and maybe do some jumping jacks, anything to get limber.