Frida Karlsson, the Swedish cross-country skiing star, faced the press in Les Rousses, France, with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. Having just tested the World Cup tracks, she admitted uncertainty about her current form, emphasizing her focus on general physical conditioning rather than specific ski speed training. Karlsson viewed the upcoming races as a crucial stepping stone towards tailoring her training for the impending World Championships. Looming over her preparations was the persistent issue of a foot injury that had plagued her throughout the season.
The foot injury saga began during the summer training period. While Karlsson initially felt strong and put in significant training volume, the familiar discomfort in her foot resurfaced during the autumn. The pain, a recurring problem for several years, intensified after initial on-snow sessions in Vålådalen, forcing her to curtail her training. Karlsson acknowledged a tendency to push through pain, often realizing the severity of an injury too late. The foot problem escalated into a more complex issue, impacting other areas like her groin due to compensatory movements and overexertion. Facing this setback, she was forced to re-evaluate her training plan, incorporating cycling and gym workouts while temporarily shelving her ski training.
In late October, during a high-altitude training camp in Tenerife, Karlsson addressed the media, candidly discussing her injury and modified training regimen. While expressing hope for a World Cup debut in Ruka a month later, she remained cautious, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of her recovery. Despite the uncertainty, Karlsson projected a sense of assurance, drawing strength from past experiences overcoming setbacks in her career. She emphasized the importance of adaptability, acknowledging that several paths could lead her back to competition.
Against the backdrop of uncertainty and a modified training plan, Karlsson’s performance in the Ruka World Cup opener defied expectations. She delivered a dominant performance, winning the 10km race by a staggering 46.5 seconds ahead of Therese Johaug. Karlsson attributed her success to the tranquility and focused training she experienced in Tenerife. The warm weather and the nature of roller skiing, which reduced strain on her injury, allowed her to heal and build fitness effectively. Coupled with an intense desire to compete, she arrived in Ruka prepared and motivated, culminating in a resounding victory.
However, the demanding World Cup schedule and the lingering effects of the foot injury presented ongoing challenges. After the Lillehammer race, Karlsson was again forced to adjust her training. She shifted her focus to intense roller skiing sessions on a steeply inclined treadmill, simulating uphill skiing. This specialized training aimed to build power and endurance while minimizing stress on her foot. While acknowledging the positive progress in her recovery, Karlsson remained vigilant, emphasizing the need for continuous management of the injury throughout the season. She recognized the delicate balance between pushing her limits and protecting her vulnerable foot.
Looking ahead to the World Championships, which mirrored the Tour de Ski in its demanding format of multiple races in quick succession, Karlsson remained steadfast in her intention to compete in every event. She dismissed the possibility of skipping races, a decision seemingly unwavering despite the potential risks. Reflecting on the initial aggravation of her injury, partially attributed to her own drive and reluctance to back down, she admitted a personal tendency to push her limits. While acknowledging the need for caution, she remained without a designated ”stopper” within her team, entrusting herself with managing the workload and prioritizing her health during the crucial championship races. Her focus remained firmly on competing at her best, pushing aside concerns about the injury’s potential impact. Despite the ongoing challenge posed by the foot injury, Karlsson displayed a resolute determination to compete fully at the World Championships, trusting her ability to manage the physical demands and deliver her best performances.
