This text is from an article entitled WOMENS PROGRAMS - THE TIMES THEY ARE A' CHANGIN'.

It's written by Heidi Leonard and Lisa Kilpatrick (Ski Instructors at Mount Hotham, Australia.

Generally, here is a list of what participants can expect:

• Ladies will be initially placed into a group where common goals are shared, and skiing is similar.
• During the first day or so, changes from group to group may occur to place Ladies in a more suitable group.
• The first day or so is spent on basic skills, refining what skills participants already possess. It is an important time to fully understand the importance of these basic skills, and how they relate to the female body. During this part of the program, ladies will "find their feet". Instructors get to know the whole skier and formulate plans for each participant to meet their goals.
• The bulk of each program differs depending on the group and what
  they want to achieve. However the basic framework exists, and will be listed in the marketing spiel for each mountain.
• Expect to be challenged! The environment is a nurturing one so the challenge will feel different to previous experiences. You will be taken outside your comfort zone, but you may not have the same emotional reaction to it. The experience of fear will begin to change.
• Usually some discussion takes place about the differences between men and women, and sometimes equipment modification is covered.

What to look for in a good women's program instructor:

• The most important task for a women's program instructor is to develop a climate of trust, quickly!
• Find out who the instructors will be. Call them, or go for a ski with them before the program commences. Many women's program instructors will happily meet you for a drink to help answer any questions you may have.
• Look for someone with a warm manner and excellent communication skills.
  If they are not available call the Co-Ordinator of the program. They are often the best person to talk to as it is hard to know which instructor group you will end up with.
• The instructor should have a solid technical knowledge. But equally important will be their understanding of positive thinking techniques, self-concept and its effects, and behavioural change. They may not use these words but they should have an understanding that creating an atmosphere for optimal performance must include technical understanding (how your body works, what you physically must do), and emotional response understanding (how you can place yourself in the best psychological space for success).
• They should love their sport, and be passionate about teaching. Remember they will be motivating you when you are about to make your first turn down that run!
• They must ask for and understand your goals.
• They must have a sense of fun. So very important when teaching anybody!
• They should have an interest in all participants (not just their own group).
• And lastly, your instructor must have the ability to guide social interaction and team dynamics.

This time is often a highlight of the instructor's season. That has certainly been the case for us, and we have friendships and memories that we cherish from our experiences. Hopefully you should have this response when you finish the program too!

Read the article: WOMENS PROGRAMS - THE TIMES THEY ARE A' CHANGIN'.
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