Photo credit: Eliteam Doug Lewis

What do you think is the best strategy for training this summer? Two athletic options are ski camps and participation in other sports. Summer ski camps add ski training time, while other sports help develop a versatile, multi-sport athlete.

Before deciding, consider what to look for in a camp. If athletic progress is the goal, be realistic about the athlete’s developmental stage. Focus on camps that provide the right balance of skill development and fun.

The developmental path is ideally based on Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD). LTAD emphasizes the best possible developmental windows based on maturity, like learning to walk before running. Mimicking elite athletes like Mikaela Shiffrin too early can hinder development. Instead, follow a gradual progression that matches the athlete’s current capabilities.

You should know that a counterintuitive shoot-ready-aim approach is not advised. Youngsters often try to become ski racers before becoming adequate skiers or attempting skiing without a solid athletic foundation. The ideal progression is to develop an athlete first, then a skier, and finally a ski racer. Start with basic skills and gradually move to more complex techniques.

Fundamental movement skills are essential, including body management, locomotor, and object control skills. These skills include rolling, jumping, throwing, posture, balance, and coordination. For example, balancing is easier on solid ground than on snow with skis. Developing these foundational skills early makes advanced skills easier to learn later.

Athletic development is not a binary switch but a continuous growth process. Think of it as building a pyramid: A wide base supports high sports aspirations. A broad athletic base is essential for high-level athletic success. Therefore, invest time in diverse physical activities that enhance overall athleticism.

When choosing summer camps, prioritize those that emphasize skiing skills. Look for camps that vary the vertical and horizontal distances between turning poles to create different challenges. These variations help athletes adapt to various conditions and improve their skiing abilities.

Participating in other sports helps develop the “athlete” in the ski racer. Different sports emphasize skills such as strength, the glycolytic or aerobic energy system, balance, or coordination. Weight training builds strength, while sports like hockey, soccer, and lacrosse enhance the glycolytic energy system. Distance running and long bike rides boost endurance and aerobic capacity. Activities like hockey and skating improve balance, and gymnastics enhances coordination.

Non-organized off-snow activities can also benefit young athletes. Inventing or modifying traditional activities may increase engagement and enjoyment. The best summer training strategy keeps young athletes moving and growing through varied and enjoyable activities.

Ron Kipp is the Education & Development Director for Team Palisades Tahoe. He is an Olympic coach and proud Olympic parent.

Fundamental Movement Skills

Body Management Skills:

1. Rolling
2. Stopping
3. Bending
4. Twisting
5. Landing
6. Stretching
7. Climbing
8. Static and Dynamic Balancing
9. Turning

Locomotor Skills:

1. Crawling
2. Running
3. Galloping
4. Walking
5. Hopping
6. Skipping
7. Dodging

Object Control Skills:

1. Throwing
2. Catching
3. Striking
4. Bouncing
5. Dribbling
6. Kicking