This is the plan that we recommend for those who have already had a season or two of structured endurance training and are looking to boost their performance in SkiMo races. This 16 week plan starts at a higher level than the beginner/intermediate plan. It will be demanding in terms of time and energy. It will require considerable effort to complete. It is not for a novice as it starts off with over 7 hours of required training the first week and peaks at over 11 hours per week. It includes substantially more high intensity training than does the Beginner/Intermediate plan so requires a better aerobic foundation. It will take you through general strength, max strength and finally a muscular endurance period. The aerobic system will be used to support the hard work of this muscular endurance work and later the high intensity race specific training. Neither the high intensity workouts nor the aerobic work can be compromised or the training effect will be compromised. The two have to fit together and support one another.

At the end of the 16 week plan you will find two added example weeks that you can use for planning your mid season training. One is used when there is a multi week break between races and you can return to normal training and the second is used when you have races separated by only a week and normal training is not possible. While all the workouts are listed as running or hiking to allow for preseason dry land preparation, you can and should substitute in skiing or roller skiing wherever possible.

To make the best use of this plan: Familiarize yourself with the training concepts and principles described in the book “Training for the New Alpinism“. Pay particular attention to the notions of Continuity, Gradualness and Modulation. Rest when you are tired. If you miss a workout do not try to make it up, just move on. If you miss more than 2 in a week then repeat that week. The plan starts with an Aerobic Threshold assessment test. From this you will establish the training intensity limit for most of the aerobic base training that will dominate in the overall plan but especially in the first 8 weeks. The first 8 weeks also includes a basic strength program to prepare you for the harder work to follow. Do not increase the intensity of the early aerobic base building workouts and hope to gain more benefits or to squeeze a 1 hour workout into 30 minutes. There is no short cut when it comes to aerobic adaptation. This plan has proven successful for SkiMo racers who used it properly to compete at the regional level.

Here’s useful beta about how to purchase and start your new plan and why we use TrainingPeaks.  For specific questions about this training plan, or to send us your success story email us at coach@uphillathlete.com.

Tag your training with #weareuphillathletes

Train smart. Ski well. Have fun.

Steve House
IFMGA-certified Mountain Guide, Coach, and Founder of Uphill Athlete

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