This is the plan for expert back country skiers and ski mountaineers who seek out the steep lines on big mountains. This advanced level plan is intended primarily for skiers who will skin or climb to the top of their objective. It will also serve well for heli or lift-assisted skiers looking to improve their all mountain skiing. The plan is not for novices and assumes you have a solid physical conditioning, no current injuries and have been very active over the summer but are looking to put the final touches on your fitness during the fall.
The backbone of the program is the aerobic base you bring to it. If the thought of skinning or climbing two-thousand feet in a day leaves you short of breath this is not the plan for you. In that case you should start with our Uphill Athlete 8-week Ski Hut to Hut Training Plan. The early weeks include extensive aerobic workouts to support the uphill part of your ski day along with Core and General Strength workouts. By week 6 you will be into the very demanding muscular endurance ski specific segment of this plan. The final six weeks of this plan are a mix of challenging muscular endurance workouts and aerobic training. Gear requirements for this plan are: Barbell and a squat rack. The total weight necessary will vary between athletes.
Steve House IFMGA-certified Mountain Guide, Coach, and Founder of Uphill Athlete
Photo: Griffin Post shredding near Skeena BC, courtesy of Kaestle Ski
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