Course Content:

Fall Dryland Training is a terrific way to kick off your fall fitness program AND prepare your mind and body for cross-country skiing!

This Training Group focuses on ski-specific fitness (aerobic, anaerobic, strength, flexibility) and skills (balance, agility, technique).  It is of significant benefit in preparing the body for the higher volumes and intensities needed for cross-country skiing when the snow comes to stay. 

This class does not include running or soccer, however hopping and skipping exercises are performed.  Ski bounding and ski running may be included for more experienced skiers.

Experienced skiers of all levels beyond complete beginner (beginner lessons are offered by local ski clubs) with average to excellent fitness levels are welcome.  This program is NOT for beginner skiers – a minimum of 2 years skiing experience is required to participate.

Start working on your personal Birkie ski goals this season with Fall Dryland Training!

Registration:

Cost:

• $100CAD
• Minimum of six registrants needed to run the session.
• NO REFUNDS if the course is run, including for illness/COVID

Location:
First class will be Lower Gold Bar Pavilion shelter (10955 50 Street). Class will be notified about location of remaining classes.

Equipment: Bring old ski poles or walking/hiking poles, preferably ski walking length (about 10 cm shorter than your regular classic length), and a yoga mat or towel.  Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the weather (even rain!). For Wednesday events, a headlamp or flashlight.

Instructors:

Murray Aubin – has been a cross country ski coach /instructor since 2014. He enjoys the process of fine tuning ski technique, while having fun along the way! He has seen the sport evolve and grow for over 20 years as an instructor and as a loppet racer. With a CANSI level 2 and NCCP certification, he is keen to help athletes work toward their individual skiing goals, and of course the Birkie!

Rob Chevalier. Rob is a CANSI Level 1 and has been training and assisting with Roy and Mary Ann for the past several years.

Mary Ann Merritt. Mary Ann is a CANSI Level 2 with about 8 years teaching experience with the Birkie Society and Edmonton Nordic Ski Club.  She and Roy have team-taught many classes.

Roy Merritt. Roy is a CANSI Level 3 instructor, he is in his 50th year of teaching skiing. He’s is a long-time Birkie instructor as well as a former Edmonton Nordic Ski Club coach, instructor and wax tech. He’s skied the Birkie many times as well as numerous other loppets and Alberta Cups. He will be assisting with the Dryland Training this year.

Jared Reichert – Jared is a CANSI Level 3 instructor and is looking forward to returning for another year of ski instruction with the Birkie Society. He got his first ski instructor certification 10 years ago. Over that time he has instructed the Learn to Loppet Program and Birkie Training Group with the Canadian Birkie Society and has provided lessons to beginners, intermediate and advanced skiers through the Edmonton Nordic Ski Club.

All Instructors have First Aid Certifications.

Other Instructors, as needed.

CANSI = Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors