Emil Persson, Lager 157 Ski Team, has been at the top of the Ski Classics Pro Tour in recent years. Here you can read about his thoughts regarding the rollerski racing season and the activity as a form of training.

Emil Persson’s results are so impressive that it hardly needs to be described. Winner of the Champion competition Season XI, second at Season XII, several Pro Tour victories, and top placements. Here, Lager 157 Ski Team’s big star shares his thoughts about rollerskiing in terms of competition and training.

What are your thoughts about the competition season on rollerskis and the development in recent years?

“I think it’s good that it’s growing. I think it’s a lot of fun to compete with a real bib number, and when you race in the summer, it becomes more of a year-round sport.”

What’s the most significant difference between rollerskiing versus skiing?

“It’s nice to be able to go on roads. It is also a freedom to be able to ski without being dependent on the conditions of a ski track. You always know what the conditions will be like before you get to the competition site.”

What races will you be starting in August and beyond? 

“The plan was to race Blinkfestivalen, but I contracted Covid-19 this week, so I stayed home. Then Alliansloppet will be next and Värnamorullen, those are the competitions I have planned to race. Then maybe there will be something more in September as well.”

What are your goals during the rollerski season? Are you targeting Alliansloppet, for example?

“Yes, Alliansloppet is the biggest summer competition, so you want to win it. But then there is the opportunity to test different tactics at the rollerski competitions and take a little more risk.”

From a training perspective, how do you see rollerskiing versus skiing on snow? 

“I like rollerskis. It’s an excellent form of exercise. One advantage is that you don’t have to be on a ski track as you must in the winter. Then I like the freedom to go where I want.”

How much of your training during the summer is rollerskiing?

“It is probably up to 75%. It becomes imperative as it is the one that is most sport specific. That’s where you put the focus.”

And concluding, is it different to train on rollerskis compared to a double poling machine?

“On Skierg, it is very easy to stand and pull. Not much technique is required. Less balance is required on a Skierg, and it is less complex than training outside.”