My muscles are still aching and sore from my very first snowboarding experience on Saturday, but it was worth it.
I signed myself up for a one-day starter pack at Coronet Peak, which consists of a one-day lift pass, board rental and two 90-minute group lessons.
I tried skiing once last year but it was a disaster.
The slope I went to was not suitable for beginners and had a rope tow.
I could not get used to the nutcracker and overall it was not an enjoyable experience.
I was unco-ordinated, afraid, cold and sore.
I could not wait to get back down to sea level.
However, I'm not giving up on snow sports.
Now that I've moved to Queenstown I decided to give it another go but try snowboarding instead - and get some proper lessons.
I was very nervous.
My biggest problem was fear.
I'm afraid of (in no particular order): going fast, falling, being cold, not being fit enough, breaking bones, not being able to get off the chairlifts, heights, the other people in my group lesson being naturals and me being left behind, other skiers/boarders crashing into me, losing control of my board . . .
I could go on but you get the idea.
I'm a wimp.
Since Saturday, I've managed to conquer some of those fears and the mountain does not seem as daunting now.
The atmosphere on Coronet Peak on Saturday was contagious.
Everyone was really excited and happy with the excellent snow conditions.
My lesson began with instructor Nic at 10.20am.
Ten other people were in my group, all complete beginners.
It took me a while to get used to all the equipment and being dressed in so many layers, but the lesson was slow-paced and managed to build up my confidence slow and steady.
I was, however, the slowest learner in my group.
We spent some time getting used to the board and standing and sliding on a pretty flat slope.
Then we went on the magic carpet to do some exercises going down the beginners' slope on our heels.
Nic was very patient and understanding and was there with me as I was going down the slope.
My biggest problem was fitness.
Snowboarding uses leg muscles in a way I was not used to.
My thighs and calves were screaming and I had to keep taking little breaks.
In the afternoon lesson, we did more sliding on our heels and then moved on to sliding down on our toes.
Going down backwards was much easier for me and I felt more confident as the day went on.
The lessons were well worth it, although two in one day was a bit full-on for me and punishing on my body, but it was very good to get an understanding of the techniques from a professional.
When my boots came off, my calves hurt so bad I had trouble walking.
But with a hot bath and some rest they are coming right.
I'm pretty keen to go back up the mountain and practise what I've learned.
I've conquered some of my fears and have gained some understanding on how addictive snow sports can be.
It was a fun, learning experience and with a bit more practice I hope I'll get the hang of it, and I'm hoping as I get a bit fitter, it will not hurt so much.
