October 10, 2010 – Here’s the second question for Ask the PRO, a new feature at skitrax.com where readers are invited to ask former Canadian head coach, Dave Wood, the winningest xc ski coach in North America, questions about training, technique, equipment etc. Whether you’re a Junior, a Master, or an Elite gold medal contender your questions are welcome – read more HERE.

World Cup, Olympics and Cross Training

Hi Dave,

I’m a former triathlete (World Cup level) and runner (32 min for a 10km xc run). I am 26 years old and this will be my first year xc skiing racing (national). Do you think I can believe in reaching a level where I can compete on the World Cup circuit and/or the Olympic Games even if I’m 26 years old? I am used to running and biking – do you think I should keep doing both for cross training? Finally what should I do this winter to maximize my experience in xc skiing?

Thank you,
Anonymous
Mont-Tremblant, QC

You have a few questions here and I will address the tough one first. You ask if you can believe in the World Cup and Olympics. My response to anyone asking this question is yes, if you want it bad enough. As well you need to answer yes to all of the questions below:

1. Do you have the physiological capacity? In your case if your 10km time is closer to 32:00 than 32:59 I would say that you probably do.

2. Do you have the financial resources to commit to full time training (850 hours per year) for four years or eight years?

3. Do you have a support system around you (a club for example) to provide coaching, race support, etc.?

4. Do you realize that making it to the World Cup or Olympic Games is very hard. Currently for a male skier to make it to the Canadian World Cup XC Ski team the only real chance is to become the NorAm Series leader for one of the three periods where the NorAm leader gets the opportunity to start at a World Cup outside of the regular quota each nation receives. Once at the World Cup a top result can keep you there, but only a top result (i.e. top 20 or top 12).

5. Are you technically solid in both techniques?

As I said, if you want it bad enough you can put yourself in the fight. Currently Stefan Kuhn is doing this – he came back to skiing at age 25 and is making a very strong push to be at the top level. Pierre Harvey came to skiing after other sports and was very successful.

Your other questions are easier. I would encourage all ski racers to keep running year round. Running is the most time efficient and effective training form a skier can use. In addition it’s often the case at xc ski races that warm up and cool down must be done on foot as the race tracks are limited and can be in use – running is your only option.

My advice regarding your question about this winter would be to consider all of the questions above first. Your commitment must be for at least four years, and it must be total. If you can make that commitment then hit the NorAm circuit and go for it.

Dave