Freestyle Education and Certification

What: The Freestyle Specialist assessments are a two-day or three-night “clinic style” event (like a level I assessment). The first day is a clinic and the second day is an assessment. The group will consist of both snowboarders and skiers, as well as all levels of park teaching and riding experience.

Unlike other assessments, the Freestyle Specialist is non-linear. You can choose the level you feel confident pursuing — I, II, III. For example, if you are a very experienced and accomplished park instructor, skip level I and go straight to II or III. Talk with your evaluator to get their feedback on what level they think you should attempt on Day Two. While you may discuss and select your desired level of Specialist, you may not change once you begin the assessment on Day Two. Pick a specialization level within your teaching and riding ability because you may not switch once the assessment has begun.  (Note: Testing Level may be limited by park terrain.)  You may also choose your track:  snowboard or alpine.

Why: To become a well-rounded instructor and rider, capable of confident teaching throughout a variety of man-made and natural mountain terrain

If you think Freestyle is just about “Big Air” and “Rails”, you might miss a whole world of tools for teaching!

Freestyle Specialist helps you explore timing and movement in a whole new way- from the A.T.M.L. model (Approach, Takeoff, Maneuver, Landing) to the 3 skills of Freestyle (Speed, Pop, Spin)- the Freestyle Specialist has the language and exercises that explore range of movement and performance at a whole new level. Get the tools and language of Freestyle with your Freestyle Specialist designation. 

How: 

• Required PreRequisite: e-learning Freestyle Specialist online course (choose either track: snowboard or alpine)
  
• Day 1: Clinic-format: The first day of the Specialist will be a day of introductions, both within the group and to the local resort, and a day to share teaching and riding information. Day One is an open format park & pipe clinic. This is the day to ask questions! Based on the group’s desires and ability level (as well as the terrain and conditions available), the evaluator will cover topics that may be tested on Day Two. Use this time to get and give new ideas for teaching in the park. This is also a time to fine tune any riding issues you may have. By the end of Day One, each member of the group should be thinking about what level of Freestyle Specialist they would like to pursue.
• Day 2, Assessment Format: Written exam followed by on-snow assessment and feedback. Like traditional assessments, you will be evaluated on three categories: Teaching, Riding and Technical Knowledge. As the specialist level increases, candidates are required to demonstrate skills in all 3 areas. Teaching skills are a high priority for candidate’s of all levels. Lessons should be taught with progression, clarity and safety. As candidates strive for higher Specialist, teaching lessons must focus on creatively improving the ability of class members and teaching more advanced tricks.

Be sure to check other prerequisites and tested capabilities in the Certification Pathways Guide below.