Guys vs girls on the slopes

HOW do men differ from women on the snow fields? Find out with these girls-only skiing tips.

Hit the slopes with confidence this season. Picture: Mt Hotham

LADIES - ever wanted to hit the slopes, but have been put off by the guys, your body, or your lack of talent? It's time to put those fears behind you with these girls-only skiing tips.

Ski instructor and women's program expert from Mt Hotham in Victoria, Heidi Ettlinger, has all the answers to why women-only ski lessons are helping girls get on the slopes.

What does female-only tuition offer?
The programs have been specially developed for women in terms of technique as well as the learning experience. Women tend to do better in a group with a supportive and non-critical environment. Improving skills often involves moving out of your comfort zone and taking risks but in a less stressful environment. Women thrive on the group's mutual support and are willing to share their feelings of fear and excitement. This boosts their confidence.

How do men and women differ on the slopes?
The physiological differences between men and women result in different training and technical requirements. Typically, women have narrower shoulders, wider hips and shorter legs, meaning they carry the bulk of their weight lower on their bodies than men. This means a woman's centre of gravity is lower and further back so they are more prone to sitting back on their skis.

Also, since women usually weigh less than men of comparable height, they need to use more force in their turns to get the same response as men from their equipment. Women tend to like more context in their learning - why, where, how rather than just doing it - so we provide that.

What can women expect to learn in a women's program?
It's like having a travelling tool box of realistic tips that women can take with them throughout their own mountain travels. It provides examples such as ways to deal with the steepness of a trail or overcoming changing snow conditions. The camaraderie that builds takes most women beyond what they originally thought they were capable of doing.

Is it ever too late to learn?
Learning is easier than ever. Women should remember that they can choose how they'd like to enjoy the sport. They can be a goddess of the green trails or a black diamond babe on the bumps. Both are equally rewarding and offer a way to embrace the mountains in all their glory.

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