Whistler Adaptive offers Nordic skiing and Nordic sit-skiing for individuals with physical, sensory or cognitive disabilities. We take you through Whistler’s Lost Lake trails which are centrally located near Whistler Village or to Whistler Olympic Park in the beautiful Callaghan Valley, where over 50 kilometers of cross-country ski trails are expertly groomed for classic, skate and sit skiing, ranging from beginner to Paralympic calibre.
Standing skiers employ various methods using Nordic skiing techniques. Private and group lessons are available for children and adults. Depending on the goals of the client, the primary focus of a lesson can simply be getting outside and exploring Whistler trails with friends, while other lessons can focus on technique, fitness and speed skills led by an experienced Nordic coach.
Besides instruction for individuals with sensory, physical and/or cognitive disabilities, Whistler Adaptive also provides physical and psychological support to those looking to be re-introduced to the sport following injury. Nordic sit-skiing is great exercise, which can be practiced with friends or independently. Sit-skis have a moulded seat (bucket) with an adjustable back positioned on a metal frame that is mounted on bindings for two skis. The Nordic sit-ski can be used for participants with cognitive disabilities, limited lower body strength and people who use wheelchairs. Our Nordic coaches are trained in adaptive Nordic skiing ensuring athletes use proper body alignment, climbing techniques and speed control.
Whistler Adaptive and Whistler Sport Legacies are introducing biathlon experiences and training at Whistler Olympic Park for standing skiers, sitting skiers and athletes with a sensory disability. Biathlon is a sport in which participants combine cross-country skiing with rifle marksmanship. Athletes skate a short ski loop, fire 5 rounds at the biathlon target and head off again around the ski loop. There are various formats but the ultimate goal is to ski fast and shoot straight. A combination of free-technique cross-country skiing or sit skiing and small-bore rifle marksmanship, biathletes develop a balance of stamina and stability. Visually impaired biathletes ski with a guide and use a rifle with sound indicators for accuracy to then shoot a laser beam at the target.