Masters X-Country

Three men in ski gear posing in a snowy outdoor setting, wearing numbered bibs 83, 84, and 85. They are at a biathlon event in the Canmore Nordic Centre, with snow-covered hills and trees in the background.

Masters X-Country Program

This program is for intermediate and advanced skiers looking to improve fitness and technique in classic and skate skiing within a supportive group environment. Sessions are structured to build endurance, strength, and efficiency, preparing skiers for the January–March Loppet/Race season.

Program Structure

  • Evening sessions focus on strength and high-intensity training.

  • Weekend sessions emphasize long-distance endurance and technique development.

  • Tuesday on-snow sessions are dedicated to technical improvement.

  • Skiers should start the season with a fitness base in September.

What to Expect

  • Structured training cycles alternating endurance, threshold, and peak speed.

  • Certified coaches who tailor training for master skiers, emphasizing injury prevention and progression.

  • Technique feedback at every session.

  • Fall dryland training, including roller skiing and alternative workouts.

  • Strength training at Winsport, with professional programming adaptable to all skill levels.

  • Race & Loppet participation encouraged, with wax support and coaching advice.

  • Ability-based training groups to ensure appropriate pacing and progression.

Skiers select their group based on speed and ability during registration.

Skiers will be split into groups by ability and ski-speed.  Self selection at registration is based on the following criteria:

Masters 1

this group has now moved to the Learn to Loppet program:

  • I like to ski 15-20 km in 3 hours

  • I like the social aspect of the program at a slower pace.

  • I am new to training but want to improve fitness and learn about intervals and meso-cycles.

  • Skin skis are my go-to

Masters 2

  • I like to ski 20-30 km in 3 hours

  • I like social skis and competitions such as loppets and fun informal races.

  • I am familiar with intervals and the benefits they bring to overall fitness

  • Skin skis or waxing, depending on the conditions

Masters 3

  • I can comfortably ski 30+km in 3 hours

  • I enjoy competitions and I am building fitness to peak for a specific race

  • I know my HR zones and love a MaxSpeed workout.

  • I’ll apply klisters instead of resorting to skin-skis

Note: This is not a learn-to-ski program: if you are not comfortable skiing 20+km in 3 hours, the Adult Learn to Ski or Learn to Loppet programs will be a better option for you.  Foothills will work with you to find the right program to ensure positive outcomes.

Program Details

  • Adults

  • September – March 

  • Fall

    • Mondays, 6:30 – 8:00 pm, Strength Training, Winsport

    • Thursdays, 6:30 – 8:00 pm, Various Calgary locations AND Canmore Nordic Centre

    • Saturdays, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm, Running, Hiking, Biking, Roller Skiing (optional), various locations

    Winter

    • Mondays, 6:30 – 8:00 pm, Strength Training, Winsport

    • Tuesdays, 6:30 – 8:00 pm, Technique Night at Confederation Park Golf Course (8-10 Sessions)

    • Thursdays 6:30 – 8:00 pm, Interval Night at Confederation Park Golf Course AND Canmore Nordic Centre

    • Saturdays, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, various mountain locations (Canmore Nordic Centre, Banff National Park, Peter Lougheed Provincial Park)

    Note: Program locations will be closely aligned with the Youth Competitive XC Program.  Support will be available at AB Cup races and the Cookie Race.

    • Skate roller skis and skate poles with Carbide Pole Tips for roller skiing (optional)

    • Helmet for optional roller skiing: no helmet=no roller skiing

    • Skate Ski Equipment

    • Classic Ski Equipment

    • Headlamp

    • Runners

    • Heart Rate watch (optional but recommended) 

  • 2024/2025 Fees

  • Foothills Nordic is able to run high quality programs for a reasonable cost due to the volunteer support from our families.  Numerous volunteer opportunities are available to help with the club, including helping at Foothills hosted races, and maintaining Confederation Park trails. 

    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 Adult Programs Manager.