Masters X-Country

Masters X-Country Program

This is a multi-day program designed for intermediate and advanced adult skiers who want to improve fitness, ski technique, and overall health within a fun, supportive, and community-focused environment.

Program Philosophy

The Masters program is built around the idea that adults train for many different reasons. Some participants are motivated by fitness and health, some by technical improvement, some by social connection, and others by competition and performance goals.

Rather than separating skiers into fixed ability groups, sessions will regularly include multiple workout and intensity options. Participants can choose the option that best aligns with:

  • Their personal goals

  • Current fitness and skill level

  • Energy and recovery on a given day

  • Desired training intensity

This approach helps create a more inclusive and supportive training environment while still allowing each participant to challenge themselves appropriately.

Registration Opens June 22

The Master’s X-Country program is built around the idea that adults train for many different reasons. We support all of them!

What to Expect

Structured training sessions focused on endurance, strength, intensity, ski-specific fitness and FUN.

  • Regular technique instruction and feedback in both skate and classic skiing

  • Fall dryland training, including strength, running, hiking, roller skiing (optional), and ski-specific conditioning

  • Group training atmosphere focused on encouragement, improvement, and community

  • NCCP (National Coaching Certification Program) certified coaches with experience supporting adult athletes and lifelong sport participation

  • Optional participation in loppets and local race events

Loppets & Competition

Participation in loppets and races is encouraged but not required.

The program will identify several key loppets and events throughout the winter season that participants may choose to target as personal goals. Coaches will help support participants in preparing for these events while recognizing that success looks different for every individual.

The overall program is designed so participants can measure progress against their own goals and objectives.

Foothills Nordic Ski Club also participates in the Alberta Cup series.  Although not a formal component of the Masters program, participants can receive club waxing and community race support.

IS THIS THE PROGRAM FOR ME?

This is not a beginner learn-to-ski program.

Participants should:

  • Be comfortable skiing both classic and skate

  • Have previous cross-country ski experience

  • Have a baseline level of fitness appropriate for moderate-to-high intensity training sessions

  • Be prepared to spend Saturdays in the mountains (Canmore, Peter Lougheed, Lake Louise, other), including associated fees (CNC pass, Kananaskis pass, National Parks pass, etc).

NEW - Project 2029

For advanced skiers pursuing higher performance goals, including preparation for the 2029 Masters World Championships in Canmore, Alberta, and looking for a more self-directed approach to training.

Participants in Project 2029 will receive:

  • More advanced and self-directed training support

  • TrainingPeaks training plans

  • Guidance around race preparation and periodization

  • Support for targeted competitive events and training camps

Project 2029 participants may continue to train within the broader Masters community while receiving additional performance-focused support.

Note: This is not a learn-to-ski program: if you are not comfortable skiing 10+km in 3 hours, the Adult Learn to Ski 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 of all ages.

  • September – March 

  • Fall:

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

    Wednesdays, 6:30 – 8:00 pm, Various Calgary locations 

    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

    Wednesdays 6:30 – 8:00 pm, Confederation Park Golf Course

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

               

    Notes:

    • Program locations will be closely aligned with the Youth Competitive XC Program. 

    • During the on-snow season, Saturday sessions may be offered at more than one location.

  • Required:  

    • Skate and classic ski equipment

    • Headlamp

    • Runners

    • Poles for dryland training

    Optional:

    • Heart Rate watch

    • Bike (helmets mandatory)

    • Skate and/or classic rollerskis (helmets mandatory)

  • 2026/2027 Fees (3 day program)

  • 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.