As the temperatures rise and summer approaches, dedicated ski racers are already looking ahead to the upcoming ski racing season. While the snow may be months away, the off-season presents a prime opportunity to hone skills, build strength and fine-tune technique in preparation for the challenges of competitive skiing.

One invaluable resource for aspiring ski racers is National Alpine Ski Camps (NASC), renowned for its summer programs on the slopes of Mt. Hood. Here, participants receive expert coaching, immersive training experiences, and invaluable insights to elevate their skiing to new heights. And along the way, they’ll forge life-long relationships with coaches, mentors and new friends. Let’s delve into some key tips from NASC’s summer camp to help skiers prepare for the upcoming racing season.

Focus on Fundamentals
At NASC's summer camp, skiers learn the importance of mastering fundamental skiing techniques. From carving precise turns to maintaining optimal balance and edge control, solidifying these foundational skills lays the groundwork for success in the gates.

Make Connections
Ski racing is not just about individual performance. It's also about being part of a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the sport. Building friendships with fellow racers fosters a supportive and motivating environment where you can push each other to improve and achieve your goals.

Get Technical
NASC’s summer camp curriculum includes dedicated technical training sessions designed to refine skiing techniques specific to racing. Participants work closely with experienced coaches to perfect gate techniques and tactics for slalom turns and GS turns – essential elements for competitive ski racing.

Go To the Tape
Video analysis is a cornerstone of NASC’s training approach, providing skiers with invaluable feedback on their technique and performance. By reviewing footage of their skiing, participants gain insights into areas for improvement and can make targeted adjustments to enhance their racing prowess.

Prep Your Body
The best way to stay in racing shape all year long is to find enjoyable ways to spend active recovery time. On the mountain, this is easy to do. During camp season, we spend off-slope time riding mountain bikes, swimming in the lake, hiking and more. This helps skiers prepare their bodies for the rigors of ski racing and reduce the risk of injury.

Prep Your Mind
Ski racing demands mental toughness, focus, and confidence, qualities that are cultivated at NASC’s summer camp. Through visualization, goal setting and supportive coaching, skiers learn to manage pre-race nerves, stay composed under pressure and perform at their peak when it matters most.

Prep Your Skis
In the highly competitive world of ski racing, where milliseconds can make all the difference, the importance of thorough ski preparation cannot be overstated. By sharpening edges, repairing any base damage, and applying the appropriate wax for the prevailing snow conditions, racers maximize their glide and minimize friction, enabling them to carve precise turns and maintain high speeds throughout the course.

Practice, Practice, Practice
NASC’s summer camp provides ample opportunities for skiers to participate in training. By practicing starts, turns, and finishes in a competitive setting, participants gain valuable race experience and fine-tune their race tactics and strategy.

Fuel Yourself
It’s crucial to give your body the fuel it needs before heading up the mountain. Our staff, including a professional chef, keep a close eye on skiers’ hydration and diet, and we adjust the menu according to what they’ll need.

By embracing these tips from NASC’s summer camp, ski racers can lay a solid foundation for success in the upcoming racing season while making life-long friends with people in the skiing community. From mastering fundamental skills to refining technique, building physical fitness to nurturing mental resilience, the lessons learned at NASC’s summer camp empower skiers to reach their full potential on the racecourse and beyond. As the summer sun shines bright, aspiring ski racers seize the opportunity to prepare, train, and sharpen their skills – all with the ultimate goal of conquering the slopes come winter.