Skiing | Bryce Hansen

Hey everyone! I've seen a lot of questions about how us freestyle skiers actually train, especially how we learn those mind-bending big tricks and what happens when there's no snow. It's definitely more than just showing up on the slopes! Learning a big trick, like a cork 7 or a double backflip, is a marathon, not a sprint. We definitely don't just send it on the first try! It usually starts with tons of visualization and mental practice, running through the trick in our heads. Then, it's off to the trampoline or a foam pit – these are absolute lifesavers for getting air awareness without the risk of hard landings. We'll practice rotations, grabs, and body positioning endlessly until it feels like second nature. From there, we move to water ramps, which are basically giant slip-and-slides into a lake, allowing us to simulate landings and get comfortable with the trick at speed before hitting real snow. Honestly, sometimes it feels like you're 'debating whether or not to let the intrusive thoughts win' when you're about to try something completely new and scary for the first time on snow. But when you finally stick it, the feeling of having 'survived' and nailed it is pure adrenaline! When the snow melts and winter feels like a distant memory, our training doesn't stop. Indoor training is crucial. We spend a lot of time in the gym focusing on strength, agility, and especially core stability. Plyometrics help with explosive power for jumps, and balance exercises are key for landings. Many of us hit up indoor trampoline parks specifically designed for aerial sports, allowing us to continue refining our spins and flips. Some even use dry slopes or indoor ski/snowboard simulators, though those are less common for big air tricks. Summer training is all about maintaining fitness and honing skills in different environments. Water ramps become our best friends for air tricks. For overall endurance and leg strength, mountain biking, hiking, and trail running are fantastic. Cross-training with sports like skateboarding helps with balance and board control, translating well to the snow. Even swimming and yoga play a role in recovery and flexibility, keeping our bodies ready for the next season. It's a year-round commitment, constantly pushing boundaries and finding creative ways to stay sharp. Every skier's journey is unique, and while the core principles are similar, some might lean more into intense gym work while others focus heavily on air time. The key is consistency, gradual progression, and always getting back up, even after a tough fall. It's a lifestyle, and definitely worth the effort when you're flying through the air!