"The heat goes on" sang the late great John Wetton (Asia), but this summer's heatwave seems to be a thing of the past as the month of August is on its last legs. It really has been a great summer, at least up in Scandinavia, and perhaps even too great in terms of the weather. Every endurance sport enthusiast knows that training under the boiling sun is not the most delightful feeling.
But train we must, and it seems that the heat of the summer did not bother Britta Johansson Norgren, Lager 157 Ski Team, when she readied herself to defend her Champion title next winter.
Looking back on this summer, she recalls the long enjoyable workouts and the great time she had with her family. Here is Britta, the reigning Queen of Visma Ski Classics, up close and personal mustering up some summer "coolness" before the fall season kicks in.
How was your summer? "I spent as much time as possible with my family and then trained hard so that I'll be ready for the new season. I like being out in the woods or spending time in a cabin."
What is your number one summer workout? "My favorite summer training exercises are long roller-skiing outings with my friends in the sun. I always take the opportunity to have a good workout wherever I am."
What training principles do you value the most over the summer? "I try to get a good amount of quality exercises and prepare myself for the hard training in the fall. I'm not trying to chase the best possible shape in the summer. I dare to be in a bit worse shape now and build up towards the winter."
Engadin Skimarathon is a new event in Visma Ski Classics. Are you ready for a skating race? "I'm happy to have a skating race in the mix. However, it's not affecting my training much, but I try to do some easy skating workouts now and get more speed and put more focus on technique closer to the race."
What tips would you give to leisure skiers who are setting their sights on some VSC races next season? "In order to do well, you should have a long term plan and stick with that. Be persistent in your pursuit of your personal greatness."
What do you like about summer and what gets under your skin? "I love those wonderful summer evenings with my family. But I would love to spend them without mosquitoes or other bugs. They are not really at the top of my list when naming the best things about summer."
Did you read a book or go to the movies this summer? "Easy reading works well for me. So, I did some light reading. I also like relaxing movies if I find time to watch them."
Written by: Teemu Virtanen
Photo: TW Media
