1. It is difficult to understand the theory: mathematical modeling involves a wide range of knowledge, including linear algebra, calculus, probability theory, statistics, optimization theory and so on. For beginners, these theoretical knowledge may not be deep enough and it is difficult to understand and master.

2. It is difficult to abstract practical problems: Mathematical modeling is to abstract practical problems into mathematical models, and then solve the problems by solving the models. This process requires a strong ability of abstract thinking, and it may be difficult for beginners to accurately abstract practical problems into mathematical models.

3. High programming skills: Mathematical modeling usually requires computer programs to solve the model and analyze the results. This requires beginners to have certain programming skills, such as MATLAB and Python. This is a big challenge for beginners who have no programming foundation.

4. Time management and teamwork ability: Mathematical modeling competitions usually have time constraints, which require the completion of problem analysis, model building, solution and result analysis within a limited time. This requires beginners to have good time management skills. At the same time, mathematical modeling often needs teamwork, which requires beginners to have good teamwork ability.

5. Innovative thinking ability: Mathematical modeling requires not only solving specific problems, but also putting forward new methods and ideas, which requires beginners to have certain innovative thinking ability.

Generally speaking, mathematical modeling is not only difficult for beginners to learn theoretical knowledge, but also challenging in practical skills. It also requires good thinking ability and teamwork ability.