Ida Palmberg: “The Youth Bib Is A Dream”
This summer, she also won the 40km final stage of the Swedish Rollerski Championships in front of Olivia Hansson and Linnea Johannsson.
ProXCskiing talked with Ida Palmberg in front of Season XIV to learn about her training, the changes in Team Ramudden, her goals, and even more.
Ida, you were wearing the Pink Youth bib for a while last season. Is the bib your main goal for the coming season?
“Of course, the youth bib is a dream. But I’m very humble about it, I know it will be tough, and we’re many women who are strong and want to fight for it. There are many very good youth women in a couple of teams this year. I’ll just do my best, and then we’ll see.”
Your personal best last season was 10th at Pustertaler Ski Marathon. What placement are you aiming for on Ski Classics this Season?
“I work every day to take the next step in the development and hope that I will take another step this season. But you never know, I’ve had some problems with illness and injuries during the spring and summer. That’s why I’m very humble before this season. But of course, top 6 will be a great driving force and dream for me.”
What is your favorite type of course?
“I think I like the most types of courses. But I would say that I like tracks that have it all: flat, uphill, and downhill.”
If you had to choose only one race of the Tour, which one would it be?
“I would choose Marcialonga. Because of the fantastic environment with the cozy villages and the atmosphere with lots of happy people. And I really like Cascata, the last climb of the race.”
Talking a bit about training, can you tell us about your favorite training session?
“My favorite session is a really hard interval session on rollerskis. Preferably together with a strong friend and preferably composed by Mattias Reck. Then there are usually a lot of surprises, and it rarely gets boring. I also like long sessions on rollerskis, in nice weather and good company.”
Do you also enjoy biking or running for training?
“Yes, some cycling occurs in my training, mostly for longer sessions. I also do intervals sometimes.”
Are you also using the rollerski treadmill often?
“No, not so much rollerski treadmill. I like to be out in nature when I am training. But I use skierg a lot in my training, especially now towards autumn when it gets colder outside.”
Do you have a place for mental training in your preparation?
“I haven’t worked much with mental training before, but I will start doing it more and more. I think it is an important and good thing.”
In your opinion, what is the most significant change in Team Ramudden compared to last year?
“As everyone knows, a lot has happened in the Team compared to last year. Two strong ladies have left, and Lina has ended her career, which is a big change. But I think the Team we have now is really strong. It’s something new and exciting. Everyone is so solid, and looking forward to a new season. I think it will be great.”
According to you, what is the biggest strength of Team Ramudden?
“The biggest strength of Team Ramudden is that we always have fun. Everyone contributes to a good atmosphere with lots of joy and laughter, which I think is important. Then, having Lina Korsgren as team manager is also a strength. Lina has so much experience to share with us skiers, which means a lot. Lina contributes every single day to me becoming a better skier.”
What does Emilie Fleten’s arrival change for you?
“Emilie’s arrival to the Team means a lot to me. I was very very happy when I heard she would be joining us. She is a very good skier, but above all, a fantastic person and I think she will fit well into the group. I think we will have a lot of fun together and I hope we can benefit from each other. After all, she is a bit more experienced, so I hope she will be able to teach me something (and laughs).”
What are you doing when you are not skiing or training? Are you also studying?
“I have been studying for three years now. And I like that. I like to have something else to do when I’m not training.”
Do you have a favorite streaming series or a movie to recommend?
“I like feel-good movies and series, so I can really recommend Virgin River. Then Suits is also one of my favorites.”
If you had a piece of advice to give to young athletes, what would it be?
“Don’t think too much. Just ski, go hard, and do your best in every single race. And of course, have fun. Without joy, nothing is worth anything.”