Overdistance ski touring session, North Cascades, WA |
Each year we learn more and more about the most efficient methods to train and improve. One of the recurrent themes we've encountered is the frustrating lack of quantifiable training methods for skiing. Cycling, running and swimming all have equal distances and relatively constant courses, allowing for infinite possibilities to data mine your efforts. Not so with skiing, at least in the traditional manners. But we've developed some exciting means to better understand and execute the training and both Brian and I are already seeing big differences in our daily performances. By using GPS and being more meticulous with workout venues we've been able to keep closer tabs on day-to-day fluctuations, as well as hone in on more exacting progressions of a given method. All good stuff.
Brian on top of Hart's Pass. Pretty sloppy snow. |
We've started using some old Russian strength training, too. I don't know where Scott digs this stuff up, but apparently the guy who developed it was the guru for Renato Canova, our Italian patron saint of kick-ass workouts. These new Ruskie workouts involve lots and lots and lots of sets and reps of squat jumps and split jumps and such with about 40% of your max squat weight on your back. Did you know you can buy 70# weight vests? You can. Donning one is quite awkward, but it has compelled me to elicit great sympathy for Octo-Mom. I'm glad I won't be bearing huge loads of children.
And finally, I have to give another shoutout to Scott Shoes for the slammin' kicks I've been using lately. The newest version of the e-ride Grip trail shoe is unparalleled - lightweight, low-profile and grippy. If you would've told me when I was 16 that I'd be running 50 miles a week and yearning for more, I'd have probably spewed Capri-Sun juice right out my nose. No foolin'.
Best trail shoe I've ever had, complete with Euro-stylin' color schemes |