Off-Season Advantage: Why Summer Training Matters

Oliver Water Ramps

For this month's Freestyle File, I want to shine a light on a part of the training season that’s often overlooked — the off-season. Just because the snow is gone doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, summer is where a lot of progress happens.

Whether your athlete is just starting in FUNdamentalz or competing on the Performance Team, off-season training plays a key role in their long-term development — both on and off the hill.

Why Train in the Off-Season?

Freestyle skiing is a high-skill, high-demand sport that requires more than just time on snow. The summer months are a great opportunity to slow things down, sharpen technique, and focus on building strong habits without the pressure of competition.

Programs like strength & conditioning, trampoline, and water ramp training help athletes:

• Refine their skills and explore new ones

• Build muscle memory and body control

• Stay confident, motivated, and ready to hit the ground running when winter comes around

Taking a full break from training might seem like a reset — but for athletes aiming to progress or move into more competitive programs, it often stagnates development. As Momentum Ski Camps puts it, “In-season is for showcasing your skills — off-season is for building them.” I couldn’t agree more.

Is This for My Athlete?

Absolutely. While trampoline and ramp training are essential for athletes learning inverts or working on bigger tricks, they’re just as valuable for newer athletes too.

• FUNdamentalz athletes can work on air awareness, posture, basic spins, and safe takeoffs and landings — all in a controlled environment.

• Freestylerz athletes can grow their confidence and comfort in the air.

• Performance athletes often use the summer to qualify new tricks and fine-tune their technique before the snow falls.

Our coaching team adjusts every session to the athlete in front of us. You don’t need prior experience to join — just curiosity, courage, and a willingness to learn.

Why Air Awareness Training Matters

One of the biggest gaps national-level coaches see in new athletes is a lack of strong foundational skills. That’s something we can change, and plan to.

Air awareness and body control are at the heart of what we do. Athletes learn how to move in the air, how to spot landings, and how to keep good form — safely and consistently. These skills are easier to build when athletes are younger, while their bodies and minds are still adapting and exploring.

Even more importantly, these programs build confidence. Trying a new trick — or doing something that feels a little scary — in a safe, encouraging environment builds mental strength, trust, and resilience. That growth doesn’t just show up in skiing — it shows up everywhere.

The Foundation for High Performance

If your athlete has big goals in freestyle, off-season training is one of the best investments they (and you) can make. It’s not about rushing progression — it’s about building the kind of foundation that will support them for years to come.

When done right, those early skills translate to faster, safer, and more sustainable growth as they get older and start competing at higher levels.

Final Thoughts

Off-season training isn’t just for high performers — it’s for any athlete who wants to build skills, grow their confidence, and return to the snow stronger than when they left it.

It’s also a great chance to connect with teammates and coaches, take on new challenges, and deepen their love for the sport.

If you’re wondering which summer program is right for your athlete, feel free to reach out — we are always happy to help you find the right fit.

Let’s make this off-season count.

— Coach Lauren