Sometimes it seems like we are just “playing games” on rollerskis. I take out my sidewalk chalk and cones and the athletes do slalom or figure-8’s to work on various elements of technique and athleticism. Well, below is a picture of women on the US Ski Team from Jessie Diggins’ blog… doing some of the exact same drills we do (and including the sidewalk chalk arrows!).
US Ski Team women working on agility out in Utah. Photo (C) Tom Kelly
And this video from US Ski Team member Noah Hoffman’s blog shows a lot of speed work. One of the coolest parts of the video is Andy Newell’s move at 0:33. He is in a pack of skiers and in one super smooth and incredibly fast motion he steps out from behind and moves to the side to overtake. See it at full speed at 0:33 and slow-motion at 0:41. Newell is in full black tights and shirt.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaI6AHXldZg#t=46
