After her impressive performances at the World Cup, skiing sensation Mikaela Shiffrin took some time to reflect on an entirely different skiing experience—training at an indoor skiing facility. Known for her dominance on the slopes, Shiffrin has spent years perfecting her craft in the outdoor alpine environment. However, her recent experience at an indoor ski center opened up a new chapter in her journey.
Shiffrin admitted that at first, she was skeptical about the concept of indoor skiing. After years of conquering some of the most challenging outdoor terrains, the idea of skiing within the confines of a building seemed far removed from her norm. But, as she discovered, the controlled environment had its own unique advantages.
She revealed that training in an indoor facility provided her with consistency, especially when unpredictable weather conditions hampered outdoor training. The ability to practice without having to worry about varying snow conditions, wind, or temperature allowed her to focus on technique and precision.
Shiffrin was also impressed by the advanced technology and design of the facility. She noted that the meticulously maintained slopes and snow quality closely mimicked real alpine conditions, making it an effective space for honing her skills. The predictable nature of the environment allowed her to work on fine-tuning her movements with less distraction, something that can be challenging in the unpredictable outdoor world.
In her reflection, Shiffrin emphasized that while indoor skiing can’t replace the experience and challenges of natural slopes, it can serve as a valuable supplementary training tool. For her, it offered a chance to focus on her craft in a controlled setting, ensuring that she remains at the top of her game, regardless of where she trains.