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Embracing the Challenge: Exploring the Mindset of Freeride Athletes

  • Writer: Cameron Norsworthy
    Cameron Norsworthy
  • Jun 17
  • 3 min read


Freeride skiing and snowboarding are not just sports; they embody a philosophy, a lifestyle where athletes constantly test their limits against nature’s raw beauty. Recently, we had a compelling episode with Laurent "Lolo" Besse about his experiences in the freeride world and insights into the mindset needed to thrive in such a challenging environment.


The Evolution of Freeride Sports


Freeride sports, including skiing and snowboarding, have evolved significantly over the years. Originally considered niche hobbies, they have grown into highly competitive and professional sports. According to Lolo, this evolution has been both positive and negative. On the one hand, the sport's rise in competitiveness has driven athletes to push their limits, thus enhancing their skills. On the other, it risks losing the pure enjoyment of the sport, turning passion into pressure.


“The competition now is getting so big that you really have to enjoy it outside of the competition as well,” Lolo emphasizes.



The Importance of Passion


One of the greatest challenges athletes face today, according to Lolo, is maintaining their passion amid the growing professionalism. In freeride sports, where riders cannot test the course before competing, the love for the sport remains a critical motivator. The thrill of the ride and the camaraderie among athletes are what fuel their drive. As Lolo advises, it’s crucial to have fun and not let the weight of competition eclipse the pure joys that brought them into the sport.



freeride skiing and flow



Mental Preparation and Adaptability


Mental strength, Lolo explains, is as vital as physical prowess. Athletes must cultivate a mindset that allows them to remain relaxed and focused amid the pressures of competition. Visualizing not only the triumphs but also potential setbacks is crucial. Preparing for everything that might go wrong prepares the mind for adaptability, key when nature throws in unexpected challenges. 


Lolo recalls a personal anecdote, shedding light on how unexpected conditions can impact performances. He emphasizes the need to have multiple plans and the readiness to adapt those plans to new realities as they unfold. 



The Balance of Confidence and Control


Confidence, Lolo insists, comes from extensive training and pushing oneself within safe limits. Freeriding is about distinguishing when to let go completely and when to be consciously aware of every move. In freeriding, the balance of control and creativity makes the difference between a successful run and a near disaster.


The experience of freeriders involves an interplay between planning and spontaneity, where understanding one's limits and maintaining a broad awareness of conditions become essential skills. The best performers are those who remain fluid and ready to adjust their plans as they go.



Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience


Every failure is an opportunity, Lolo points out, drawing parallels with his journey as a former athlete facing setbacks, such as his pre-Olympic challenges and managing health issues. He stresses the importance of resilience, seeing each stumble as feedback for future improvement. 


This resilience is not just physical but also psychological, a sentiment echoed in various fields. Athletes must learn to thrive in discomfort, making themselves familiar with adversity, so when true challenges present themselves, they can navigate them with confidence and skill.



Expanding Horizons: Mindfulness and Presence


Freeride sports demand a remarkable level of mindfulness and present-moment awareness. Being fully engaged in the moment is essential to finding that elusive "flow state"—a mental state where a person performing an activity is fully immersed in a feeling of energized focus and enjoyment. Lolo references the movie "The Big Blue" as emblematic of living through passion and contending with competition without losing one's essence.


The practice of mindfulness allows athletes to channel energy efficiently, remaining calm under pressure and becoming aware of both their immediate environment and internal states. It's a skill that’s applicable not only in sports but also across various aspects of life.



Lessons Beyond Freeride


The discussions with Lolo unveil valuable lessons that extend beyond sports. They highlight the importance of adaptability, passion, and resilience—traits necessary to navigate life's unpredictability. Whether under the pressure of competition or in everyday challenges, embracing discomfort and learning from setbacks can catalyze personal growth and success.


In conclusion, freeride skiing and snowboarding serve as an apt metaphor for life's trials. Confronting the unknown on a snow-speckled mountain is not so different from facing life's uncertainties. It teaches us to plan, adapt, and most importantly, to enjoy the ride, keeping the essence of what we love at heart. As Lolo reminds us, the ultimate goal isn't merely winning but growing and finding fulfillment in all we do, both in competition and beyond.


For more information, see our podcast on HUMAN performance.

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