Disclaimer:
This is an updated post we have previously published back in 2016. We still think is is very relevant to today.
Some of the most important questions for many who are entering the Ski and Snowboard world in Japan (or anywhere for that matter) for the first time or those who are looking to develop new skills, learning how to tackle new terrain, searching for the 'big' breakthrough in technique, confidence or enjoyment factor is:
'Should I book a private lesson?'
'Is a private guide the way to go?'
Can I learn new skills on a multi-day tour?
Answer to these is 'Yes'.
While Private lessons are obviously more expensive, the benefits of having a smaller group sizes definitely increases the 'guest centred' experience. More individual time spent with a Private Instructor/Coach/Guide as in many other sporting industries i.e golf, tennis, personal training etc. creates a greater number of learning opportunities that may or may not be experienced during a group situation.
A rule of thumb in regards to group lessons vs private: Private lesson students generally progress faster due to the amount of 'one on one' time, feedback, and practice time that is given. Private sessions more accurately pinpoint mechanical requirements that guest are needing to move up in performance, confidence and enjoyment levels. A great rapport can be built with a foundation of trust between the guest and instructor in Private lessons.
In a group the progression can be 'boxed' designed to accomodate and move the group at a slower pace to ensure all members can ultimately grasp the concept in mind and body. We all learn in different ways and our fitness and sporting prowess also differs due to our daily life habits. Human motivations are variable from adult to adult and child to child, affected by elements of environment and general mood. Private lessons are advantageous when taking all this into account. Remember it's all about you!
Many of us enjoy the group lesson scenario especially at the intermediate level and above, for the group social aspect. However, I wonder how many have been a little intimidated or frustrated by the pace of the group, felt like there was not enough personal 'one on one' time with the instructor, 'too much talk not enough moving, not enough time spent mastering movements and techniques, feedback that was not forthcoming due to size of group and indeed the length of the lesson. Is this you?
The instructor will always try to do their best in these situations, difficult as it maybe, in the hope of connecting with a large percentage of the group. Not always 100 % successful.
Bringing us into guiding, the group scenario works well as long as all participants are of the same skill/fitness level.
We find that some people can be intimidated by the pace of groups on tours especially those who are in the intermediate realm. It maybe their first foray into deep powder, off piste skiing, tree runs and the like. Progression Tours focused on this particular skill level are great way to meet like minded people to progress together whilst enjoying the excitement of a tour, visiting new places and experiencing new resorts.
Check Out HME Tours for Winter 2020/21: https://www.hmejapan.com/multiday-tours
A Private small group guiding also works well in this situation a group of friends/family/colleagues can enjoy days or a week exploring one particular ski area or multiple ski areas sharing the same experiences and thriving in the moment.
