Do Women Skiers Need a Female Ski Instructor?

Empowering Women to Ski with Confidence

The story of women in skiing is one of sheer determination in the face of long-standing gender norms, and it’s one Helena knows well. At 32, she became one of fewer than 70 women to achieve the prestigious BASI Level 4 qualification — the highest level possible, recognised internationally and required for teaching in France. Her own challenges on the mountain inspired a passion for supporting women through all-female ski clinics, both for local Morzine skiers and those visiting on holiday. Here Helena shares her story and thoughts on the specific needs and challenges that often affect women.

Where did your passion for helping female skiers come from?

My 10-year journey to achieving BASI Level 4 (ISTD) was a huge learning experience — not just technically, but psychologically. In most week-long exams, there were rarely more than one or two women. BASI qualifications involve four levels made up of modules in technical skiing, teaching, off-piste, physiology, language and a speed test. With each stage, the standard rises and the pass rate falls, and many women drop out along the way, making female representation at Level 4 even smaller.

During my training, I became seriously ill in 2008 and underwent emergency surgery in 2009. The experience changed both my body and my outlook, and it pushed me to fully commit to my goal of becoming a ski instructor.

In 2012, while teaching in New Zealand, I was assigned to a ladies’ week and immediately felt at home. I thrived, connected deeply with the group, and realised I’d found my niche. I feel incredibly lucky to do a job I love every day.

Over the years, I’ve learned that women’s skiing progression isn’t just about the physical skills. We function differently — anatomically, emotionally, and mentally. As a mum of two, I understand the constant juggling act and the pressure women often put on themselves, which all shapes how I teach and connect to the women I teach.

What are the common fears and challenges women bring to the mountain?

Women often arrive on the mountain carrying a mix of fears and pressures: low confidence in their ability, overthinking, and the drive for “perfect” skiing — even though perfection is subjective and personal. Life, work, and home responsibilities can build up, making the physical act of skiing feel overwhelming rather than relaxing.

For parents, subconscious concerns about children add another layer, alongside the emotional and physical shifts that come with hormonal changes. Some of my clients have faced tough past experiences, from having a fall that scared them to being pushed onto slopes before they were ready, and some are recovering from injuries or operations.

Ultimately, my goal is to make skiing fun. It’s a magical, individual sport, and it should always be tailored to what you want to get from it.

Do you have a formula for teaching? How would you describe your approach?

I’m a real people person — I love helping others — and my lessons are always fully personalised to what you want. I’m good at reading people and adapting how I teach, and I often end up being part ski instructor, part life coach and listening ear. My aim is to keep everything relatable, fun and enjoyable.

I use analogies that connect with your everyday life, fitness or hobbies so the learning feels meaningful. Many of the women I’ve taught talk about my “Helena’isms” — quirky sayings and examples that make things click. Being a little bonkers and having a laugh keeps us all smiling and enjoying the day.

What are the biggest confidence killers for women on the piste?

Women’s confidence can be shaken when they’re pushed onto slopes to please others, such as following a group into challenging terrain just to reach a restaurant, turning what should be relaxing into stressful. Many mums feel left behind after years of skiing greens and blues with their kids and need a refresh to rebuild confidence. Others simply feel overwhelmed when skiing becomes one thing too many.

What can women expect from a lesson with you? How can you help?

Women can expect a fun, supportive lesson with someone who genuinely cares about helping them make the most of their time on the snow. I guide skiers to reach their goals and tackle slopes with confidence, feeling calm and comfortable. I also help build a positive internal dialogue, so skiing with friends, partners, or family is enjoyable, and ultimately, my aim is to help women rediscover the pure fun of free, flowing skiing.

I help women move through their fears and build trust in their ability, which can look like:

• Shifting from feeling frozen and bracing yourself to trusting your body and skiing with ease.
• Moving from struggling to keep up with a group to choosing what’s right and fun for you.
• Turning feelings of overwhelm into focus on key areas for steady progress.
• Changing the mindset from “I’m not good enough” to “I can do this on my own terms.”
• Finding practical ways to gain confidence on tricky runs that previously felt intimidating.

What are your tips for women looking to rebuild confidence on the slopes?

Tune in to what you’re feeling, find a rhythm and flow, and create a mantra to help clear your mind so skiing becomes fluid and enjoyable rather than reactive. But most of all don’t be scared to ask for help and find the supportive environment you need to flourish.

Do women skiers benefit from a female instructor?

I personally think they do — there’s a difference in how women think and approach challenges on the slopes. This is not to say there are not brilliant male instructors – clearly there are – but sometimes working with another female can really help shift your mindset.

Helena offers women’s ski coaching through one-on-one and group lessons as part of AliKats’ In Her Element campaign. The initiative offers tailored instruction, wellness activities, and supportive experiences, helping women rebuild confidence and reconnect with the mountain on their own terms.

Images: photo 1: Photo by Sam Bark on Unsplash; Photo 3:  Image 3: Photo by Greg Rosenke on Unsplash; Photo 4: Tourist Office Morzine Avoriaz