How to become a snowboard instructor with Vivid Snowboarding
How to become a snowboard instructor with Vivid Snowboarding
Vivid Snowboarding will again be running a 10 week BASI level one and two course in Verbier, Switzerland for winter 2023 - 2024
Vivid snowboarding offers the very best snowboard instructor training course on the market. The program will last for 10 weeks and successful candidates will gain their BASI Level one and two snowboard qualifications. The course is an amazing way of not only becoming qualified, but also a game changer for anyone looking to improve their riding skills. Much of the course program is based around learning how to teach snowboarding. This is the ability to communicate and explain different skills. While having the ability to show the correct movements in a clear and precise demonstration. It is being able to structure lessons with great content while making a session super fun and inclusive.
The trainee snowboard instructor will also learn how to accurately analysis a riders performance. This will be on a given task which will involve understanding the product and being able to give the appropriate feedback.The trainee's riding will be constantly evolving through riding piste, off-piste and snowpark.
The ten week course will transform your riding. Taking the riding back to basics and slowing everything down allows the rider to reshape everything. By understanding your own technical riding you can grow and develop your skills on your snowboard in all areas on the mountain.
Vivid Snowboarding also offers extensive technical training and teacher training for the BASI snowboarding level 3 and 4. This training can easily be transferred into other national systems.
You can check out all our instructor training courses here VIVID
Please don't hesitate to get in touch for more information on our instructor training course
BODY POSITION ON THE BOARD
A good Body position on the board is essential for effective and efficient riding. Through out this blog we will lay out the ingredients to stand properly on your board.
- Stance
This starts with the board set up. Our bindings should be a comfortable distance apart. An arms length, so scrunched up fist to elbow along the heel edge of the board between the back binding. Don't go too wide as this can add stress to the body and may result in injury.
Set the bindings up so you’ve got a positive angle on the front foot and a negative on the back. +15 and -15 is a good start. The importance of riding duck is that it allows our body to move freely. When moving the body up and down the hips, knees and ankles will move freely and in unison. Duck stance will also help make switch riding easier. It is always fun to play around with different angles to find something that really works.
- Body Position
LOWER BODY
From the board upwards we start with having the ankles, knees and hips soft and flexed. Stand slightly on the outside of the feet where these can rest and push against the bindings. The knees should be flexed out over the feet and the hips stacked over the knees. A house like shape or triangle shape should be created beneath the waist line. Keep the hips in the middle of the board.
UPPER BODY
Above the waist line it’s essential to engage the core. Stomach, abdominal muscles and lower back must remain strong. The shoulders should be aligned and the arms relaxed. Your arms are your balancing tool, if you get knocked off balance from anything on the mountain the arms will help rebalance you, while keeping you riding in a strong and confident style.
The head position is very important. This should always be in the direction of travel. If you are a regular rider for example this should be always looking over the left shoulder. Too many riders look down the mountain rather than looking through the turn.
The final ingredient is to stay relaxed. If the body becomes tight and tense then the whole of the riding will have that look and feel. Breath, focus and enjoy
Check out our Youtube to edit to get a full video experience.Body position on the board LINK
3 Reasons to join our instructor Course
3 Reasons to join our instructor Course:
- Vivid Snowboarding has a world class team of snowboard trainers. All the team are highly qualified and skilled in coaching up and coming instructors. Everyone has been through the system and has a huge wealth of experience coaching in the industry. Come and learn from coaches who know the mountain, know the resort and know how to get results in exams while having the most fun out on the hill. Check out your coaching team here TEAM
- Verbier, Switzerland is our home resort. Vivid Snowboarding has been established in Verbier since 2011 and offers the finest tuition, coaching and guiding out there. The mountains around Verbier and its surrounding resorts are some of the very best in the world. A snow sure record combined with awesome off-piste terrain and a rad snow park make the mountain a dream to ride on. The town is a mix of great bars and restaurants with something for everyone. The resort company is constantly making improvements to the infrastructure, new lifts are going in this summer with the further development of the Bruson area in 2022. DEVELOPMENT
- Become rad at snowboarding. The focus with our instructor training course is to not only get you qualified with both the BASI Level one and two qualification, we are also going to get you riding at an awesome level ready to tackle any terrain on the hill. We look at developing a creative, skilful and playful riding technique in all areas with every rider on our course. We want riders to be confident while carving with speed on groomed slopes and also have the ability to ride off-piste choosing the best lines. Verbier has an awesome park where we will master the ability to hit features with style and confidence.
Snowboard Level One Course
Snowboard Level One Course.
Here at Vivid snowboarding we will be running a couple of BASI Snowboard level one course's this winter. Why not join us for some training sessions and learn how to not only master the basics but actually be able to teach friends, family and anyone who is keen to learn.
The snowboard level one course consists of a 5 day on snow exam, child protection in sport and leisure module, 35 hours Snowsports school experience and a 2 day first aid course.
Here is a list of Pre-requisites to join the course:
- Be able to ride a slope with confidence being able to adapt and stay in control and balanced when conditions vary.
- Be able to cruise down a red run with some style
- Ride your board switch on mellow terrain
- Create a carve with your board on an easy slope. Does not have to be perfect but you need to be able to find grip
- Perform basic freestyle manoeuvres on flattish terrain. These should include the nose and tail press, ollies and nollies and frontside and backside 180's
- Minimum of 16 years old.
Once you feel confident enough to step up to the exam it is a fun, progressive week of snowboarding. I can remember taking my level one back in the late 90's and gaining a lot in relation to slowing my riding down and actually thinking about how I stand on the board and how I actually steer the board. I felt the week was like an intensive and fun snowboard lesson which transformed my riding and knowledge.
Below is a list of some of the technical skills you will be assessed on:
- Perform all phases of the central theme which is your basic lesson progression.
- Show good posture and balance through out your riding.
- Do this in regular and switch stance
- Nose and tail press
- Ollies and Nollies
- Backside and frontside 180
- Butter the board and link tricks
- Cleanly carve the last two thirds of the turn on a green or easy blue
Have a good understanding of the central theme and be able to perform this. Always have good posture and balance through out. This leads into having an understanding and awareness beyond the central theme, particularly around piste performance.
A key skill of any instructor is being able to identify and evaluate major faults and provide effective feedback and inputs into the riding.
As an instructor we have to understand the learning process. We have to have a basic understanding of the TIED model ( Task, Information, Evaluate and Develop)
You will need a basic understanding of the skill acquisition model which breaks down to awareness, practise and acquired levels. You will need to be aware of different teaching styles and goal setting skills.
When looking at how to deliver a session we focus a lot on safety. This is has to be present throughout a session. Think about group management and where best to stop and talk to a group. Always using the FIS regulation. Safety is everything!!
When delivering a session you have to make sure that everyone is involved. This is sometimes harder with a bigger group but Maximum class activity is essential. Always ask questions so the learner is gaining knowledge. Always be clear and concise with instructions.
Learning to give feedback is also very important. This has to be supportive and positive. Give feedback that relates to the task. Develop how the TIED model works. Structure sessions so they flow and have a clear story line. A start, middle and end.
The key is to not get too lost with all the new words and terms. The key is to get out and enjoy the process of learning and how it will have such a positive impact on your riding level.
Vivid Snowboarding has a huge amount of experience in the instructor training world. You can check what we offer here VIVID
Snowboard Instructor Courses
Snowboard Instructor Courses
Here at Vivid Snowboarding we offer a selection of different instructor training courses. These take places in a few different locations across the globe. The venues are as follows:
- Saas Fee, Switzerland
- Myoko, Japan
- Verbier, Switzerland
You can check out all these locations on our snowboard instructor training courses page VIVID
Saas Fee, Switzerland is home to our Autumn course. This runs from late September to November. It is a great way to get qualified and work as an instructor for the up and coming season. Previously on this course students have gone on to work in resorts in Switzerland, Italy and Austria in Europe as well as Japan and China in Asia. Here at Vivid Snowboarding we work hard with our clients to get them into work. We help design a specific industry C.V, these are super important went looking to gain employment.
Myoko, Japan runs from mid January through to March. Myoko has an amazing snow record as it is close to the South China sea. A superb mixture of freeride terrain next to awesome piste and some of the best snow parks in Japan. All these ingredients make Myoko a great place for your instructor training course.
Verbier, Switzerland is where Vivid Snowboarding was created and is based. Our instructor training course prepares people for their BASI level one exam and two exam. The nine week course starts in January and runs through to the middle of March. In Verbier we also offer individual coaching for any level of instructor looking to gain their next level of qualification. We train and work with all levels from one through to level three and level four.
If you would like any more information on any of our courses, please get in touch.
The BASI Snowboard Qualification.
The BASI Snowboard Qualification is one of the most respected in the industry. The qualification pathway or system has 4 levels.
The BASI Snowboard Qualification:
Level one:
- Snowboard level 1 course which is five days on snow
- Child protection module
- 35 hours Snowsport school experience
- First-Aid course
Level two:
- Snowboard level 2 course which is 10 days on snow
- 35 hours Snowsport School experience
Level 3:
- Snowboard level 3 teaching course which is five days
- Snowboard level 3 technical course which is five days
- Second discipline level 1 course which is five days
- Level 3 mountain safety course which is a total of six days on the mountain
- Second language test
- BASI Coaching course which is five days.
- Written project on a chosen subject area.
- Interview with BASI
At level 3 and level 2 there is also the option to take part in optional technical training that can understand the technical requirements and improve overall skills.
Level 4:
- Level 4 EMS Training course ( 4 days )
- 6 logged days touring
- level 4 EMS Assessment course ( 3 days )
- BASI coaching course ( 5 days )
- FIS competition
The training for each level can be done with us here at Vivid Snowboarding BASI
All our coaches have their level 4 qualification and we have a current BASI trainer who delivers the exams. All have a huge knowledge of the product which enables us to teach and coach the ins and outs of what is required at each level. Having worked closely with BASI Snowboarding for the last 16 years around the world we've managed to network and produce great contacts for employment for some of our clients.
Check out our Autumn instructor training camp home in Saas Fee
For more information on BASI Snowboarding please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Five tips for riding the mountains on bad weather days:
Five tips for riding the mountains on bad weather days:
1.Their are dangers attached with being a fair weather rider. Flat light days can be some of the most rewarding days on the mountain and can be hugely beneficial for your overall technical game. As your main sense of vision is reduced your other senses will play more of a key role. You will ride more through touch and feel. This is great for overall board control and to up your skill level.
2.Correct eyewear is essential on flat light days. Here at Vivid Snowboarding we use Spektrum goggles which produce the very best goggles in the world. Check out their range SPEKTRUM GOGGLES . We would suggest a yellow, orange or pink lens which will help enhance your visibility.
3.Terrain choice is vital. Don't head for the highest peaks in the resort. Stay low and in the forests. The trees will help with definition of the mountain on a flat light day.
4.Local knowledge is everything so it is worth taking an instructor, guide or coach to take you to the best spots on the mountain. If you are looking to specifically work on an area of your own performance. It might be worth a few hours with an instructor slowing you're riding down and learning a new skill. Check out our lesson optionsVivid Snowboard Sessions
5.Always keep one eye on the weather forecast. A day that might start with howling winds and snow might well clear up and be fine for the last few hours of the day. Sometimes the weather can clear during the afternoon leaving empty slopes and amazing snow conditions. Too many people are guilty of staying in the resort when the weather is bad. Get yourself on the mountain and enjoy being out in the elements.
5 reasons to join our instructor training program
5 reasons to join our instructor training program
- The unique timing of the course. Our program kicks off at the end of September and runs through until the end of November. This means that anyone successful in completing the BASI level one and two will be qualified and super employable for the coming northern hemisphere winter.
- Rob Norton the founder of Vivid Snowboarding has been a BASI Snowboard Examiner for the last 14 years. He has designed the perfect instructor training program and he knows exactly what it takes to get students through their exams. The idea is to become both awesome riders and instructors with a in depth understanding and knowledge of the BASI snowboarding product
- Saas Fee is home to the stomping grounds park during the autumn, the very best snowboarders on the planet come and get warmed up for the coming winter. This will give you an idea of just how good the park is in Saas.
- The BASI qualification is one of the strongest in the world. It will give anyone a huge boost when looking for employment. Its not just a question of paying your money and getting a qualification. You have to be able to adapt and improve your riding to be match the criteria set in each exam. Check out the BASI Website for a look at the snowboard pathway BASI SNOWBOARDING
- Possible job opportunity with Vivid Snowboarding in Verbier, Switzerland for the coming winter.
Check out our instructor training page for more details on our instructor training course BECOME AN INSTRUCTOR
ANON M4 Goggle review.
Check out the Anon M4
These goggles represent the flagship of the Anon eyewear range. Packed full of technical goodies they are the fastest lens to change in the world. The M4 have a strong magnet to keep the lens connected to the frame. Each set comes with two lenses and the spare is kept in its very own lens compression case which helps avoid any damage.
Anon has also designed the MFI facemask which has a magnetic connection to the bottom of the M4 goggle and will keep the face protected in both cold and warm weather a like.
M4 comes in different frame colours and you can choose from four different lenses; Look at their full range
Check out the following;
- The Sonar Bronze lens – 19% VLT
- Sonar Blue lens – 46% VLT
- Check out the Sonar Infrared lens – 57% VLT
- Sonar Night lens - 77% VLT
Super stylish and comfortable these are a must for any rider. The size of the goggle frame makes them very adaptive to using with or without a helmet.
Check out the Anon M4 ANON
For any advice on the correct equipment to purchase please get in contact with your Vivid Snowboarding Instructor. All the team are exceptionally experienced in the industry and have a huge wealth of knowledge on riding, teaching and equipment.
Come take a snowboard lesson with Vivid Snowboarding, the specialist snowboard school in Verbier. Look at our lesson options Lessons
Vivid Snowboarding Season Opening
Vivid Snowboarding season opening camp early December in Verbier. Our long weekend kicks off on 2nd December and runs until 4th December 2017. The aim of the camp is to get your technical game on point and give the riding the once over before the winter kicks off in full. The price of the camp is 400CHF and includes 3 full days of coaching. https://vividsnowboarding.com/camps/
We are not including accommodation in the Vivid Snowboarding season opening camp early December in Verbier. We can help arrange hostels, chalets and hotels depending on your budget and taste. Don't hesitate to get in touch if you need more details , we look forward to hearing from you soon. You can check out a list of accommodation that comes recommended by us here Options.
The last few winters have seen awesome early season snow. The lifts have been up and running during the weekends in November. We confident for another great start to the winter here in Verbier. The resort always do a fine job in preparing the mountain with artificial snow as well shaping and managing the real stuff. The high altitude nature of the slopes in verbier means its a perfect early season location.
Check out the conditions in Verbier weather check