I ski and snowboard regularly with both guys and girls, and can definitely see the benefits of both. However, thinking back to all the times I’ve improved the most in a session, or felt the most comfortable in my ability, it has always been when riding with a group of likeminded girls.
I’ve had some amazing days being pushed to the max by my crew of guys in Meribel, and have definitely learnt a lot from them and progressed my riding through having to keep up with them. But it is hard, and it takes its toll. I can remember quite a few occasions being stood at the top of a crazy-steep off-piste couloir, or having just bailed off a kicker in the park, fighting back tears so as not to appear weak, but really thinking “I can’t do this!”. Boys may push you hard, but can easily push too hard and put you off or make you more scared than you already were! Sometimes you just need to ride with girls, and there are even reasons why it might be better for your snowboarding:
WE LEARN THINGS DIFFERENTLY
It has been shown that male and female brains tend to learn motor skills and sport techniques differently. Men often jump in and go for it, learning by trial and error, whereas women prefer to think things through, make links in their mind and visualise what they are going to do first. With adrenaline sports like snowboarding, this approach can be seen very clearly, with girls being more cautious but actually just wanting to think first compared to boys appearing to not think at all before trying something out.
It is also clear when looking at groups of male snowsports athletes compared to female, that men often compete and push each other in order to progress themselves whereas girls prefer to cooperate and help each other improve through gentle encouragement. This big difference in attitudes is why I believe girls’ snowboard camps are great!
IT IS LESS DAUNTING
As I suggested at the start, there have been times that, despite being a decent snowboarder, I have felt like I’m rubbish and been totally intimidated by a slope or technique to master. This is made worse for me when guys so often give it a go and do it perfectly just like that! Especially when I want to try something new, I really like being in an all-girl group as I feel like we are all in the same boat and can take our time when learning. It is easier to give it a go and not feel like people are judging you for being a bit rubbish, especially when everyone is so encouraging.
FEEL COMFORTABLE IN YOUR RIDING
I always feel more comfortable in my own snowboarding when I’m with girls. I don’t need to try and impress anyone, or feel like I’m going to be made to do something I don’t think I can do. Even when exploring new terrain or trying new tricks with other good snowboarders, I never feel like I’m going to be made to do something stupid or crazy. It always ends up just being fun without worrying about hurting myself by doing too much too soon.
Split Boarding Sessions on the Girls Snowboard Camp
HAVE A GREAT ROLE MODEL TO INSPIRE YOU
Having someone to look up to when skiing or snowboarding is massive in my eyes for progression and pushing myself to be better. We have the incredible Corinne Mayhew and Jenny Jones heading up our snowboard camp, and GB no. 1 ski cross athlete Emily Sarsfield coaching our ski camp. Just watching these hardcore ladies shred the piste so gracefully makes me want to be better, and believe that I can be as good as them! They are also just lovely and will end up being your new best friends by the end of the week. Always good to have talented friends!
ENJOY DIFFERENT THINGS
I’m not saying I never like having a solid days riding with a group of guys, followed by a pint and going back to watch endless Go Pro videos of the crazy stuff we did. However, it is also nice to do evening activities which boys might not enjoy so much, which is where the girl’s holiday comes in. I love doing a yoga session after riding, to relax and stretch out so I don’t ache so much the next day. Having a bath, a glass of wine and settling in to watch Chalet Girl in my pyjamas, sounds like complete bliss every now and again.
OUR CAMPS
I’m really excited to be a part of our Girls Snowboard Camp and Girls Ski Camp this April in Meribel and able to be out there to support everyone on it. We have amazing coaches, along with yoga classes, goodie bags, wholesome food and great company! Check out our website for more information, or if you have any questions give us a call on 0208 7899 055 or email us on [email protected].
