Viktor Chadkin, a Sportmaster PRO expert who competes in freeride events that take snowboarders off prepared runs, shares his approach to mastering the art of turning in an interview with socialbites.ca. He speaks from years of experience carving through fresh powder and navigating variable terrain, offering practical guidance that aims to build confidence on the board from the very first turns to more advanced maneuvers. This overview distills his philosophy into clear, actionable steps that riders can apply on any slope. [Source: socialbites.ca interview with Viktor Chadkin]
Chadkin begins with a gentle introduction to balance. The rider should first familiarize themselves with the board on a gentle section of the slope. The technique starts by securing the front foot with the binding, shifting body weight onto that front side, and placing the rear foot on the trailing edge. The next move is a controlled push with the rear foot to bring it onto the board ahead of the back anchor. The body then aligns slightly toward the direction of travel, the forearm is extended toward the nose of the board, and a modest amount of speed is allowed to build. The emphasis is on smooth, comfortable, and gradual movement. If the rider begins to turn, a touch more weight is applied to the front leg to encourage the arc. The goal is to build a natural feel for the board before increasing speed or ramping up the edge control. [Source: socialbites.ca interview with Viktor Chadkin]
Once the rider can maintain a straight line with stability, turning becomes a structured progression. Turns are executed by engaging either the posterior or anterior edge of the board. To initiate a turn in one direction, the rider should press the heel of the front foot as if stepping on a pedal—this action nudges the board in a single, controlled direction. When choosing the opposite direction, the rider should drive the knee and toe toward the toe tip, engaging the other edge. The process is not about brute force but about precise weight shifts, balance, and timing to guide the board through a clean arc. Mastery comes from consistent practice that builds a tactile sense for edge pressure and board response. [Source: socialbites.ca interview with Viktor Chadkin]
Chadkin has previously highlighted four core elements of a correct snowboarding stance as part of his coaching philosophy for freeride enthusiasts. These include alignment that supports stability, a center of gravity that stays over the board, relaxed shoulders to allow fluid movement, and a mindful focus on breath and rhythm to sustain endurance on longer runs. Each element plays a role in reducing fatigue and increasing control, especially when working through varying snow conditions and terrain features. The emphasis remains on developing a stance that feels natural, rather than forcing rigidity, so riders can adapt to changing slopes and maintain consistent turns throughout a session. [Source: socialbites.ca interview with Viktor Chadkin]