Karolina Hedenström had a remarkable Ski Classics Season XV, finishing 5th place overall and conquering the Youth competition. Explore her training insights and the ethos of “challenge for development,” driving her pursuit of excellence in long-distance skiing.

Karolina Hedenström’s journey through the Ski Classics this season has been nothing short of remarkable. Finishing in 5th place overall, her performance is a testament to her dedication. The Swedish Pro Team athlete also won the Youth competition and conquered impressive results, such as 2nd in Janteloppet, 4th at Vasaloppet, and 3rd at the Bad Gastein Criterium.

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In a recent interview with ProXCskiing.com, she opened up about her training regimen, race strategies, and challenges throughout the season, providing a glimpse into her mindset.

“From the start of the training season, my two main goals were to gain better strength and speed,” Hedenström emphasized, highlighting the foundation of her success. Through rigorous training on and off the snow, she honed her skills in strength, speed, technique, and endurance, setting the stage for a season of development.

One of the defining moments of her season came at Janteloppet, where she secured a remarkable second-place finish. Karolina’s capabilities seemed to suit longer distances well, so she took advantage of them. 

Reflecting on the race, she revealed she didn’t plan to break away. “I got kind of inspired by Emilie during the race and just went for it.” This bold breakaway strategy, fueled by her determination and the exceptional skis provided by Marcus Laggar, ultimately propelled her to success.

“I felt I had a good day and nothing to lose. Indeed, it was an amazing day for the whole team, as Torleif and Runar also conquered the podium,” Karolina says, referring to her teammates who finished first and second.

Yet, the season was not without its trials. Birkebeinerrennet was a big challenge due to illness. However, Hedenström focused on pacing herself and preserving energy throughout the race, highlighting the importance of adaptability in the face of adversity and adding:

“As long-distance racing usually holds diverse terrains and conditions, I believe what matters the most is your shape: physically and mentally.”

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“Challenge for Development”

Endurance training played a pivotal role in her preparation, with Hedenström strategically incorporating high-volume training blocks into her regimen. “I have tried to listen more to my body and rest when it feels tired and train more when I feel good,” she emphasized, commenting about the delicate balance between exertion and recovery.

“Another big change this year is to prioritize the most important sessions and be well rested and eager to make an effort so that I develop the parts I want to throughout the year,” she adds.

Looking forward, Hedenström shares that she will continue to focus on further enhancing her strength and speed. Guided by the ethos of “challenge for development” embraced by her Lager 157 Ski Team, she is poised to continue pushing the boundaries of her potential.

“I believe that you need to train a lot to become the very best but be well-rested enough for the key sessions, as I mentioned before. I think long-distance skiers have increased their training during season over the last couple of years, especially when we have a weekend off from competing. Getting these blocks with volume a couple of times during the season is fundamental for me to maintain a good fitness.”

Finally, Karolina opens up about how her team’s training philosophy helps her achieve her development goals:

“I also strongly believe in the training system we have in Lager 157 Ski Team with one 5–7-day long camp every month from May to October, where we get good training done together. We have a philosophy that you need to “utmana för att utveckla/challenge for development,” which means stepping out of your comfort zone. If I do the best I can, put in a lot of effort, and have fun in the meantime, I believe I will have a good season next year as well!”

Read More: Final Ski Classics Standings Season XV – All Bib Winners