Snowboarding can provide hours of fun and exercise and is a sport that's growing in popularity every year. As with many sports, if care isn't taken there is risk of an injury. When falling, snowboarders tend to hurt their arms and tailbones most frequently. Skill is definitely a factor, but the right equipment and attitude are a must to stay safe on the slopes this year.

Protect Your Noggin - Helmets have quickly become an accepted and necessary piece of equipment. With the well known dangers of concussions and head injuries, helmets are a smart choice for prevention. They keep your head safe and warm, and are available in many different styles and colors. You can find them for rent or purchase at most sports stores or in the pro shop at the hill.

See Clearly - Goggles help you out when the snow is blowing, but also help you see the slopes more clearly. Because a likely cause of snowboard injury is collision, the simplest way to avoid this is to be able to see where you are going. Did you know that you have to give the right of way to skiers or snowboarders below you on any hill? So wear a pair of goggles - they come in a range of styles and prices.

Protect Your Tush - Talk to any seasoned snowboarder and they will confirm that one of the most painful injuries is to the tailbone. This can range from a mild bruising to a fracture, and can have a long recovery time that will keep you off the slopes. The best way to prevent a tailbone injury is to wear tailbone padding designed for this purpose - especially if you are a beginner!

Wear Wrist Guards - While learning to snowboard, or trying new boarding tricks, falls occur quite frequently. When falling, we instinctively try and catch ourselves, making wrist injuries the most common type of snowboarding injury. These injuries can range from a sprain or strain to a fracture, and will have varying recovery times. Closing your fist as you fall can help, but wearing wrist guards, regardless of your level, will help prevent a major injury.

Be 'Body Ready' - One of the best ways to prevent injury is to warm up and stretch all body parts before boarding. It's also wise to strengthen your muscles so they are less prone to injury. Fitness that focuses on building balance and your core muscles will help you control your board better and reduce your risk of falling.

Approximately 60% of snowboarding injuries happen to riders with less than 20 days experience. So it's always wise to take a lesson and talk to a pro to ensure your equipment is the correct fit for you. Whether you're a seasoned boarder or beginner, remember to take a break if you get tired; muscle and mental fatigue can lead to a serious tumble.

To keep the day fun, adjust your speed to the snow conditions accordingly and always maintain control of your board. Equiping yourself with the right gear is a huge part of being safe from injury and can keep you riding all winter long!

Get out there and enjoy the slopes!