Recreational Fast

Group Training

Improve your ski technique and fitness though consistent training on snow.

Our RecFAST program offers 2-3 weekly group skiing workouts, with strength training and ski walking sessions in late fall as we eagerly await the snow. One on snow, from mid-November to late March, this group focuses on improving both Skate and Classic ski techniques while building endurance. As the season progresses, expect to tackle longer distances and more challenging terrain.

You are a good fit for the RecFAST program if:

  • A 10km-15km morning ski is your ideal Saturday plan.

  • You have the time and dedication to ski 2+ times per week (weekday evenings & weekends) and can also ski or work out on your own during the week, with an optional training plan on TrainingPeaks..

  • You want to confidently pass most people on the ski trails.

  • You can Classic ski, using diagonal stride and double pole techniques.

  • You can Skate ski, using 1-Skate, 2-Skate, and offset techniques (or are eager to learn).

  • You can ski, hike, or bike for extended periods (2+ hours).

Throughout the season, you can move up and down between the groups based on your fitness level and overall group fit. Our goal is for you to have fun!

The Details

💵 Membership cost:

  • $600 for September-November (3 months)

  • $850 for December-March (4 months)

✅ Included in the cost (incl. >$300 value of additional perks)

  • In person, small-group coaching, up to 3x per week

  • Nordiq Canada Member Fee ($12)

  • Nordiq Alberta Member Fee ($10)

  • Alberta Masters Association Member Fee ($30)

  • Physiologist-written, customizable training plan on TrainingPeaks (value $50 / month)

  • Strength training in non-skiing months in our private outdoor-based gym

  • Lactates and threshold heart rates testing, as needed ($30 value per session)

  • Individual technique video analysis & technique recommendations (priceless)

  • 24/7 access to our private wax room at the Canmore Nordic Centre during winter, including full set-up and complimentary supplies for waxing your skis (table forms, digital irons, brushes, scrapers, wax removers, hard wax, klister, etc.). We are also happy to teach you how to wax your own skis!

  • Skis race prep for Loppets and AB Cup races by our expert coaches (value $80 / pair)

📆 Weekly training schedule:

Monday 6:30pm-8:00pm skiing at Confederation Golf Course or ski walking at Nose Hill Park

Wednesday 6:30pm-8:00pm skiing at Confederation Golf Course or strength training

Thursday 10:30am-12:00pm skiing in Canmore (as available)

Saturday 10am-12:00pm or longer - skiing in the mountains, locations grooming-dependent.

What You Get:

  • Technique Focus: Every session includes ski technique work, supported by regular technique video analysis.

  • Optional Lactate Testing: On-snow training zones lactate testing, available directly on snow (no lab needed).

  • Expert Coaching: Access to multiple highly-accomplished coaches, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your learning style.

  • Community and Camaraderie: Ski, improve, and socialize with a supportive team of skiers and coaches.

  • Group Discussions: Engage in discussions and peer support on our team Discord channel.

  • Fall Cross-Training: Prepare with ski-specific strength training, ski walking, occasional running, Saturday skiing on Frozen Thunder starting in late October, Oval speed skating, and waxing clinics.

  • Winter Training Locations: We ski at Confederation Golf Course on weeknights and at Canmore Nordic Centre, PLPP, Kananaskis, Banff area trails, West Bragg, and Lake Louise on Saturdays. Alternative indoor workout options are available when temperatures drop below -20°C or in case of insufficient snow.

  • Besides regular training, team members are welcome to attend optional ski trips in Lake Louise - a 3-day weekend camp in mid-Jan 2026 (dates TBD), Gatineau Loppet on Feb 13-15, and 🇳🇴 Birkie on Mar 11-15, 2026. All optional trips cost extra, and are on cost-shared basis.

    Limited Availability:

    Due to high demand, we require participants to commit to the full winter season. Our waitlist to join the club is long, so secure your spot now!

Meet the RecFast Coaches

  • Chris Chesham

    Growing up in Canmore, Chris transitioned from Junior Racing to competing nationally in biathlon and now coaches with CANSI level 2.

  • Dasha Atkins

    Founder of Space Dogs, Dasha is a former National Ski Team athlete and Olympic competitor who now teaches skiing and finance.

  • Eric Boiral

    Eric has coached for over 30 years, holds top certifications in France and Canada, and has coached national ski racers.

  • Rory Wilson

    Rory, 19, has raced biathlon for 13 years, competed at Youth World Championships, and coaches cross-country skiing and biathlon.

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