Lifestyle: Nina Schwab represents the modern type of mountain biker. As a member of the Velochicks and a participant in Enduro One races, the Viennese travels a lot on her mountain bike both nationally and internationally. The ambitious female rider recently took part in a camp for female bikers in Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, Austria. In an interview, Nina Schwab talks about her preferences when it comes to biking, the advantages of a camp and riding in a group.
How did you get into biking in the first place?
I started mountain biking very late – in Bali. I went surfing at the Chillhouse in Canggu and we didn't have any decent waves for a few days. Mountain bike tours were also offered, so I just signed up for one. The feeling on the trail was so crazy that I swapped the surfboard for a fully the next day. Back home I was in the bike shop and out with my "Stumpjumper" faster than I could see. I then immediately registered with my current club, the 'Velochicks'. That was two and a half years ago. Since then I've been out on my mountain bike a lot and take part in the 'Enduro One' series.
Why do you like to go biking in the Alps?
For me, the Alps are simply the best mountain bike area in Europe. Quite apart from the fact that it is easily accessible from our adopted home of Vienna. Depending on what you intend to do, it simply offers an extremely large number of possibilities. Each area has its own uniqueness and beauty. I like to hit the trails before or after work. A nice change after a day in front of the computer.
How did you like the four days in Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis?
“Isch lei oans!” as my Tyrolean colleague would say. Translated, this means something like “it was unique”. Simply a beautiful area where we were received very friendly and relaxed. We also had the feeling that the infrastructure is well adapted to mountain bikers. We noticed small details, such as the storage room with tools and the laundry service in the hotel. From a culinary point of view, we had another highlight at the Hög Alm, with a great view of the surrounding mountains.
Which routes did you like the most and why?
We 'break in' in the bike park every morning. To wake up, the blue "Milky Way" or the red "Supernatural" were very flowing downhill. There are small jumps, bumps and very well shaped berms along the way. The condition is ideal for practicing the right cornering technique and 'making it easy' on the trail. The other routes in the park can be easily combined with one another as the mood takes you. A highlight were the tables and drops near the valley station - of course, a bit of airtime should not be missing! Of the trails, I liked the Frommestrail the best. It starts at about 2.500m and then meanders along reservoirs and over small hills. Later it goes over flowy serpentines and a few crisp root passages into the valley. Simply great!
Are you more into scary tracks or flowy trails and why?
The mixture makes it, but for me it can be a little more adventurous! I love challenges and always try to explore my limits a little. I keep trying difficult passages until it finally works. This is simply the best! By watching and repeating, you learn to find the right line. And the sense of achievement strengthens self-confidence.
Nina Schwab: "Ride a "real" Enduro"
Which bike did you ride on the camp weekend and why did you choose such a bike?
I rode my own bike, a Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Comp EVO 29. But I definitely wanted to ride a 'real' enduro at the camp. On site, our guide and 7-time German downhill champion Antje Kramer was kind enough to swap bikes with me. So I was able to test the Liv Hail Advanced 0 on the Frommestrail. I was extremely impressed with how easy and controlled the Hail was to maneuver over knots, roots and through tight turns. An absolute dream bike and hard to give back.
What did you take away from the camp bike technically and personally?
We simply had a mega group at the camp that motivated and pushed each other. The chemistry was right and we had a lot of fun. Even in the rain and 200 meters of hike-a-bike, we went downhill with a grin afterwards. Our guides gave us many valuable tips while driving. Technically, I took some self-confidence with me, especially for the somewhat rough passages and higher jumps.
To what extent is it important that such camps are offered to female bikers?
I think it's important to offer camps like this because it's just a great way to get girls and women interested in the sport. It doesn't matter where you come from, how old you are or what you do for a living. The common goal is to have a great time on the bike and to improve your skills. And all without pressure. The camps are characterized by a high level of comfort and you decide for yourself which skill level you want to classify yourself in. You can see that others are also struggling with similar challenges and try to overcome small barriers together. In a group – and with the right guidance – you can try things that you might not have dared to do before.
Why do you attend camps or workshops for women?
Why not?! The camps are extremely versatile. You drive with experienced guides, who all act as role models and have a lot of experience in the sport. That motivates you and pushes you immensely. At the workshops you can choose what interests you personally. Either you learn, for example, how to set your dampers correctly or what you have to consider in the field of sports photography - or simply both.
What is the difference between pure women's groups and mixed groups when you're usually out and about? Do you find it better in women's groups?
I would say it really depends on the people you're traveling with. I think the rides with the Velochicks are great, but I also like riding with friends in mixed groups. There are no differences. But I've also experienced a few 'mansplaining' situations at events that were simply unnecessary. To be honest, it doesn't surprise me that women sometimes like to be 'among themselves' when biking.
Do you have a tip for other female mountain bikers or those who want to become one?
Yes, I think proper basic technique training is extremely important to start with. This quickly brings a sense of achievement and it is easier to do later when it comes to the nitty-gritty. I was very lucky with my guides and my trainer. So it's best to take a look around to see if there is a club or something like the Women's Camp in your region. It's just a lot more fun together and you quickly get to know people with whom you can arrange further trips. If you are in Austria, you are welcome to visit the Velochicks. We have communities in Vienna, Graz and Salzburg.
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