With the 56th Engadin Skimarathon approaching, we’re looking back at the expert advice shared with us by Swiss-Ski cross-country Juniors head coach Toni Livers and Giuliana Werro, 2023 Engadin Skimarathon champion and current Swiss-Ski XC athlete. With just over three months to go until this iconic event, their insights offer a great foundation for the training phase ahead. Here are their top five expert tips to help set you up for a confident and well-prepared Engadiner.
Don’t skimp on core strength
Any XC ski enthusiast knows you need strong arms and legs for success in the sport. But there’s another muscle group you shouldn’t neglect. “Training core strength is of utmost importance because you need it to be balanced and relaxed on the skis,” explained Livers. A quick Google search yields many ways to train your core, either in the gym or using your own bodyweight. One of Livers’ favourites: go for a hike using poles. Your core (and shoulders) will thank you when you’re back on the skis again.
Want speed? Focus on technique
When you want to up the pace, go back to the basics. As Werro told us, “It’s really worth investing a lot of time in technique training, especially for beginners,”. Have an experienced friend or trainer help you identify errors in your technique—like improper weight distribution or overuse of your upper body—that slow you down. Small tweaks in those areas can prevent injury, improve glide and ultimately increase speed as you work your way up to race pace.
Consistency is key
Do you get nervous thinking about racing in a crowd? According to Livers, the solution is simple: more reps. He told us, “The best way to prepare for a race mentally is to get on skis as often as possible,”. On-ski training helps develop stability, security and mental toughness. And when race time comes, you’ll trust yourself in any situation.
Have a race-ready nutrition plan
With over 90 days until race day, now is the perfect time to start shaping a nutrition strategy that will support your training and eventually your Engadiner performance. As Werro reminded us, “A regular energy supply can be vital over the course of 42 kilometres,”. Use your longer workouts over the next few months to experiment with different combinations of gels, energy bars, waffles and drinks to see what your body responds best to. Werro’s winning Engadiner menu: an early breakfast (and coffee), a small snack and energy gel during her warmup, and regular intake of sports drinks every 30 minutes until the finish.
Get your head in the game
The mental game in XC skiing can sometimes match the physical one. Livers shared that he encourages athletes to harness their nerves before the competition. “Being nervous is normal – in fact, it’s good,” he says. “Try to get into a good mental zone before the start so you can relax and truly enjoy the race to its fullest.” Whether you use music, meditation or visualisation techniques, practise getting into your “zone” before your last few hard workouts. And how does a former Engadin Skimarathon champion handle her race-day nerves? Werro offered some simple bits of wisdom. “Have fun, race at your own pace and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Engadiner.” If you need some inspiration to shake up your training, head to Instagram and follow our Engadin Night Race crew - seven creators on a wild journey from darkness to light as they take their first steps toward the 2026 Engadin Skimarathon Night Race. They’re pushing limits, embracing the unknown and bringing their communities along for every stumble, breakthrough and moment of discovery. Watch them fall in love with Nordic skiing just like we have. #TheresMoreOutThere
A dynamic partnership
Our long-standing partnership with Swiss-Ski’s Nordic teams continues, supporting athletes with high-performance training and race-day apparel. As the season unfolds, we’re proud to cheer on the XC and biathlon teams and look forward to celebrating their successes.
Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities to connect with the Swiss-Ski team during the winter season.
