5 Mistakes When Teaching Friends to Snowboard

In the video “5 Mistakes When Teaching Friends to Snowboard” by SnowboardProCamp, Kevin and his friend David share five common mistakes to avoid when teaching your friends how to snowboard. The first mistake they highlight is using overly technical terms, which can be overwhelming for someone already learning the basics of snowboarding. Instead, they suggest keeping explanations simple and using common language. The second mistake is setting expectations too high, which can scare the person being taught. Kevin advises starting with easier runs to allow for enjoyment and progression.

Another mistake to avoid is using overly generic motivational terms. While encouragement is important, Kevin emphasizes the importance of providing specific instructions for improvement. He believes that pinpointed instructions can help individuals improve without overwhelming them. The fourth mistake is trying to teach too many things at once. Kevin suggests focusing on one or two specific things at a time to avoid overwhelming the learner. The final mistake is giving too much negative feedback. Kevin advises starting off with something positive, even if the person is struggling, and saving constructive criticism for later. By avoiding these mistakes, friends can have a more enjoyable and successful snowboarding experience.

Mistake 1: Using Overly Technical Terms

When teaching someone to snowboard, it’s important to avoid using overly technical terms. The person you’re teaching is already learning a lot of new things about snowboarding, so introducing a whole new vocabulary can be overwhelming. Instead, it’s best to keep the explanations simple and use common language that they can easily understand. By using familiar terms, you can make the learning process much more accessible and enjoyable for your friend.

For example, instead of using technical terms like “angulation of your tow edge,” you can simply explain that they need to position their toes perpendicular to the fall line. This way, you can convey the same information without confusing them with unfamiliar jargon. It’s important to remember that the goal is to help them understand and learn, so using common language is key.

Mistake 2: Setting Expectations Too High

Another common mistake when teaching friends to snowboard is setting expectations too high. While it’s natural to want them to succeed and have a great experience, putting too much pressure on them can actually be counterproductive. High expectations can sometimes scare the person you’re teaching and make them feel overwhelmed.

To avoid this mistake, it’s best to start with easy runs to build their confidence. By gradually increasing the difficulty level, you allow them to progress at their own pace and enjoy the learning process. This way, they can feel more comfortable and have a positive snowboarding experience. Remember, it’s important to set realistic expectations and focus on their progress rather than pushing them too hard.

Mistake 3: Using Overly Generic Motivational Terms

When teaching someone to snowboard, it’s common to provide motivation and encouragement. However, using overly generic motivational terms can be ineffective and may not provide specific guidance for improvement. While phrases like “you’re doing great” or “just have fun” are positive, they may not help your friend understand how to improve their technique.

Instead of relying solely on generic terms, it’s helpful to give specific instructions for improvement. For example, you can pinpoint one aspect of their riding that they can work on, such as keeping their weight centered or initiating turns with their hips. By offering specific guidance, you provide them with actionable steps to enhance their skills. This approach can lead to real progress and a better overall learning experience.

Mistake 4: Trying to Teach Too Many Things at Once

Teaching someone to snowboard can be exciting, but it’s important to avoid overwhelming them by trying to teach too many things at once. When learning something new, it’s easier to remember and focus on one or two key concepts at a time. By bombarding them with multiple instructions, you run the risk of confusing and frustrating them.

To prevent this mistake, it’s best to focus on one or two specific things to work on at a time. This approach allows them to fully grasp and practice those skills before moving on to the next ones. By breaking down the learning process into manageable steps, you set them up for success and create a foundation for continuous improvement.

Mistake 5: Giving Too Much Negative Feedback

While providing constructive feedback is essential for growth, giving too much negative feedback can be demotivating and counterproductive. A good practice when teaching your friends to snowboard is to start with positive feedback. Highlight what they are doing well and acknowledge their progress. This positive reinforcement sets a supportive and encouraging tone.

If there are areas where they can improve, it’s best to save negative feedback for later or sandwich it in between positive feedback. By providing a balanced mix of positive and constructive comments, you help them maintain enthusiasm while also guiding them towards improvement. Overwhelming your friend with excessive negativity can spoil their experience and discourage their love for snowboarding.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common mistakes when teaching your friends to snowboard is crucial for creating a positive and effective learning experience. By using simple language, setting realistic expectations, providing specific guidance, focusing on one or two things at a time, and balancing positive and constructive feedback, you can ensure that your friend enjoys the process and progresses in their snowboarding skills. Remember, teaching should be fun, so embrace the opportunity to share your passion for snowboarding and make it a memorable experience for everyone involved.