Learn To Compete

Cross-country skiers competing in a race on a snowy trail with pine trees and mountains in the background.

Learn To Compete Program

Learn to Compete (LC) is for athletes racing in U18,U20 and senior categories (age 16+). The aim of the program is to allow each individual athlete to reach their maximum potential with the opportunity for many of the athletes to qualify for provincial and national teams. Athletes can expect personalized training programs and should be prepared to train 450+ hours a year including independent workouts. Training sessions and workout modes are specifically catered to meet different athlete needs depending on their development. Dryland training includes: roller skiing (classic and skate), running, ski striding, hiking and strength training. Race support will be provided for Alberta Cups, Canada Cups, Western/Eastern Championships and Nationals.

Program Details

  • 16+

  • May TBD through March

  • Period 1 – Training (May TBD – Oct TBD)

    • Monday TBD (Strength – Calgary Location)

    • Wednesday 6:15-8:00pm (Dryland – Calgary)

    • Thursday 6:15-8:00pm (Dryland/Strength – Calgary)

    • Friday 6:15-8:00pm (Dryland – Canmore)

    • Saturday 10:00am-12:30pm (Dryland – Canmore Area Locations)

    • Sunday 9:00am-11:00am (Dryland – Calgary)

    Period 2 – Racing (Nov TBD-Mid/Late March)

    • Monday 6:15-8:00pm (Skiing – Calgary)

    • Wednesday 6:15-8:00pm (Skiing – Calgary)

    • Thursday 6:15-8:00pm (Skiing – Canmore)

    • Saturday 10:00am-12:30pm (Skiing – Canmore Area Locations)

    *Practices may be canceled or changed due to extenuating circumstances, such as poor weather or hazardous air quality.

  • 2024/2025 Dates

    • Castle Camp, July 10 – 14

    • Bow Valley Camp, August 8 – 11

    • Haig Glacier Camp, July 16-20 or July 20-23

    • Week Off, July 29 – August 5

    • Revelstoke Camp, August 19 – 25

    • Lake Louise Camp, November 22 – 24

    • Winter Holiday Break December 20 – January 6

    Optional training camp costs are not included in program fees and are on a cost-recovery basis. Camp dates are tentative.

    • 1 pair each of skate and classic skis

    • Skate and classic poles and boots

    • Skate and classic roller skis with roller tips, helmet

    • Glide and grip wax for all conditions

    • Back pack or other water carrying device

    • Running shoes, ski striding poles (elbow height), weather appropriate training clothes

    • Heart Rate monitor watch

  • LC is coached by National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) coaches following the Nordiq Canada Long Term Athlete Development
    The lead coach of this program is Georg Jalkotzy

  • 2024/2025 Fees

    Program fees payable in installments.

  • Foothills Nordic is able to run high quality programs for a reasonable cost due to the volunteer support from our families.  The number of hours required for each program is available on the Volunteer page.  Numerous volunteer opportunities will be available and sign-up lists with details on volunteer jobs will be shared with parents.

    For information on the volunteer bond and other volunteer opportunities available throughout the year, see Club Volunteer Opportunities.

  • If you have any questions, please e-mail the Cross Country Manger.