When the snow melts and the cross-country ski trails and pistes turn green, many people take a break for the season: Season break. But not for professional athletes! If you want to excel on the slopes or cross-country trails in winter, you need to lay the foundations in summer. Whether trail running, cycling or roller skiing – summer is training time. And it’s a tough one!
Trail running: strength, coordination and pure nature
Trail running is the perfect summer discipline for many cross-country skiers. It challenges the leg muscles, trains endurance and – thanks to the uneven terrain – also really gets your coordination and balance going. It is also mentally beneficial: fresh air, alpine trails and the feeling of really being outdoors.
Cycling: The gentle endurance machine
Whether on a road bike or mountain bike – cycling is simply part of summer training. It is easy on the joints and enables long, consistent endurance sessions. Many cross-country skiers also use the bike to hone their basic endurance – with targeted heart rate zones and long tours.
Extra factor: If you often sit on the bike, you also train your seat muscles – perfect for extended waxing sessions in the workshop. 😄
Roller skis: technology meets summer
Roller skis are probably the most specific summer training for cross-country skiers. It’s not just about endurance, but also about technique: diagonal stride, double pole thrust and change of pace – everything can be practiced on asphalt. For many professionals, roller skiing is therefore a must.
Strength, stability and head: the all-round package
In addition to endurance, core stability is also a key to success. Many athletes keep fit with targeted strength training, yoga or coordination exercises. And the head? It can switch off from time to time while hiking, climbing or enjoying a leisurely day at the lake – that’s just as much a part of training.
Even if there is no snow – for ambitious athletes, summer is not a break, but preparation. Those who want to step on the gas do so not only on the cross-country ski trail, but also on the trail, in the saddle and on roller skis. And we at HWK? We are also working on the best waxes for the coming season – so that you are ready when the first snow falls.
