XC BRAGG CREEK SKI AND BIKE SOCIETY
Off-Season Cross Training: The Key to Athletic Success
As the off-season approaches for many athletes, the focus shifts from competition to preparation for the upcoming season. Off-season cross-training has become an essential component of many athletes’ training regimens, providing a wide range of benefits that contribute to overall success. XCBC offers multiple opportunities for athletes to train in the off-season. Many of our athletes are Nordic skiers in the winter and mountain bikers in the spring, fall, and summer. In addition, XCBC offers multi-sport spring training and summer and fall Nordic dryland training.
Cross-training involves participating in activities or exercises that are different from an athlete’s primary sport. For our athletes, this can include activities such as running, cycling, weight training, roller- skiing, hiking, and team-building sports. The goal of cross-training is to build strength, endurance, flexibility, and overall athleticism while reducing the risk of overuse injuries associated with repetitive movements in a single sport.
One of the primary benefits of off-season cross-training is the opportunity to address weaknesses and imbalances that may have developed during the regular season. By engaging in a variety of activities, athletes can target different muscle groups and movement patterns, helping to correct any deficiencies and improve overall physical conditioning. Off-season cross-training can contribute to injury prevention by allowing athletes to address any lingering aches, pains, or imbalances that may have developed during the regular season. By incorporating low-impact activities or exercises that target specific areas of weakness, athletes can reduce the risk of injury and lay a strong foundation for a successful season ahead.
Additionally, cross-training can provide a mental and physical break from the demands of the primary sport, preventing burnout and keeping athletes motivated and engaged. This mental reprieve can help athletes return to their primary sport feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming season. XCBC’s young athletes enjoy the camaraderie that comes with connecting with their teammates in new environments
Check out XCBC’s website for information and registration for our spring multi-sport and summer dryland training programs: xcbraggcreek.ca/dryland-training
Introducing XCBC’s newest Program Administrator: Karlee Lyon
Karlee recently joined XCBC as our Program Administrator and is thrilled to be a part of the XCBC community. She brings a wealth of non-profit and government administrative experience to our club and has already been instrumental in getting our summer programs up and running. Originally from southern Ontario, she and her family settled in Bragg Creek 2 years ago and they have fallen in love with the trail and community.
We are so excited to welcome Karlee to the XCBC community!
Head Nordic Coach – Josh Lohka
Born and raised in Calgary Josh has been skiing for as long as he can remember. Nordic racing has allowed Josh to travel across Canada from BC to Mont-Sainte- Anne Quebec, explore new trails, and make new friends. To Josh, skiing is much more than simply racing as fast as you can (although that’s a pretty fun part), it is an opportunity to connect with others, challenge yourself, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
As a coach, Josh strives to develop a love for skiing that will last an athlete’s entire life. Using skiing as a tool to learn life skills, practice self-development, and healthy competition within a safe-inclusive environment.
XCBC is thrilled to have Josh’s enthusiasm and expertise to guide us into the next season!
