We are excited to be working with a great group of Masters Nordics skiers this season. We love getting these athletes in the gym training.
A proper strength and conditioning program is important for all athletes, no matter the sport. Gone are the days where athletes simply train their sport ONLY. Adding a strength and conditioning program whether in the off-season, or in-season as supplementary training, is now common place. There are so many benefits and we love that the sport world is changing and these endurance athletes realize the importance of gym time. We know you’d rather be out on your skis, and appreaciate the time you make to get in with us.
Nordic skiing is a physically demanding sport and strength and conditioning training is crucial
Here’s why:
- Enhanced Performance: Improving strength and conditioning can significantly enhance a skier’s performance. Building strength in the muscles used for skiing, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, core, and upper body, can lead to better propulsion, stability, and endurance while skiing.
- Injury Prevention: Strong muscles and a conditioned body can help prevent injuries common to Nordic skiers, such as strains, sprains, and overuse injuries. Strengthening specific muscle groups and working on overall body conditioning can reduce the risk of injury.
- Increased Power and Speed: Building strength and conditioning aids in developing power and speed, crucial for both cross-country skiing and ski jumping. It allows skiers to generate more force and speed.
- Endurance Improvement: Endurance is a key component of Nordic skiing, and strength and conditioning training can improve a skier’s ability to sustain effort over long periods. This training helps build cardiovascular endurance and muscular endurance, enabling skiers to perform better over extended distances.
- Better Technique: A strong and conditioned body supports better skiing technique. It allows skiers to maintain proper form, technique, and balance, resulting in more efficient movements on the snow.
- Off-Season Training: Strength and conditioning training provide a way for skiers to continue improving during the off-season. This allows athletes to maintain their fitness and improve strength even when snow conditions are not ideal for skiing.
- Core Stability: A strong core is essential for balance, stability, and efficient transfer of power during skiing. Core training is particularly crucial for Nordic skiers.
Incorporating a well-rounded strength and conditioning program, including exercises like squats, lunges, deadlifts, core work, plyometrics, and specific exercises targeting the muscles used in skiing, is essential for Nordic skiers.
We get started next week, let’s go!
