Preparing for a Loppet

Top ten tips from a Nordic Racer learned along the way to doing their first loppet:

1. Ski your course at least once before Payak day. 

2. Taper abundantly with rest, hydration, carbs and stretching.

3. Practice skiing without poles (in the event you lose or break one during the loppet!).

4. Save your freshly waxed skis and use rock skis (or your friend's) for the warm up.

5. Give yourself plenty of time to hit the porta potty, get down to the tracks and tighten boots- ideally not leaving it to the last 10 minutes before the starting gun.

6. Positioning yourself towards the back of the pack will be much more relaxing than front row, unless you really are that fast.

7. You will really appreciate that step turn practice when the time comes. 

8. Be bold, start cold (but warm-up in layers).

9. Don't miss the hot gatorade break mid-course.

10. Finishing really is winning. Encourage those skiing around you- it's all about the fun along the way.

Golden bonus: Thank as many volunteers as you can, this event would not be possible without them. And if you can't ski the Payak this year, sign up to help volunteer instead!