Caitlin Wallin is a former alpine ski racer and coach at the Grouse Mountain Tyee Ski Club in Vancouver, BC.

Caitlin recommended Training for the Uphill Athlete: A Manual for Mountain Runners and Ski Mountaineers, by Steve House, Scott Johnston, and Kílian Jornet.

This book focuses on training strategies and procedures designed explicitly for mountain athletes, such as alpine runners and ski mountaineers, to enhance their performance and excel in their respective disciplines. It explores many training themes, including aerobic capacity development, strength training, periodization, nutrition, recuperation, and mental conditioning. It blends the experiences of the authors: Jornet, a world-renowned mountain runner and ski mountaineer; Johnston, a highly experienced coach; and House, an excellent climber and coach. Their collective knowledge and experience make the book a fantastic resource for athletes looking to develop their talents in difficult alpine situations.

Training for the Uphill Athlete is an outstanding source for enhancing performance in mountain sports and a tool that enables female coaches and athletes to pursue alpine skiing and other mountain disciplines with confidence and knowledge. By providing inclusive and evidence-based training guidance, showcasing diverse role models, and fostering a supportive community, the book plays a role in breaking down gender barriers and promoting opportunities amongst female alpine skiers.

Caitlin’s favourite quote: “Improvement in mountain sports is a gradual process; patience and dedication are key virtues in reaching one’s peak performance.”



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