NTS Yearly Plan Periodization
Beginning now continuing through the winter NTS will post 3 different weekly training recommendations. These 3 plans will be similar in some ways but different in others. You may chose to follow one entirely or switch back and forth.
During the summer prep period these 3 plans will follow a similar cycle of easy, medium, hard weeks. As we get closer to the winter these plans will deviate more from one another depending on what the racing focus is. Below each plan is outlined to show its monthly progression. We often refer to them as months of the training year but they are actually periods (or simply 4 week blocks that sometimes overlap different months)
There is a 100 hour difference in volume between these plans 450, 550, 650. If you feel like your hourly training goal falls above or below this recommendation simply adjust the weekly hours accordingly. A skier's yearly target goal might depend on their schedule and development. For junior skiers who have been on a consistent path of development we recommend approximately a 50 hour increase from the year before.
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NTS Junior plan: 450 total hours
Designed for younger junior athletes focusing on consistent racing during the winter with highest volume planned in period 5 (August into September), moderate intensity in the fall, and higher volume again in period 8 (November).
Specifically designed for ages 14 - 16 yrs/old but appropriate for anyone
NTS Master plan: 550 total hours
Designed for adults committed to ski training but with somewhat limited schedules. This plan keeps more consistent volume through the summer with highest volume targeted in November and early winter to prepare for the Birkie and other late season races.
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NTS Elite Plan: 650 total hours
Designed for older juniors (17 - 20) or any elite level skiing competitor preparing for a full winter of racing. More periodization from month to month with higher volume and more intensity .