Last season, Sofie Elebro, Team Eksjöhus, demonstrated noteworthy performances and achieved remarkable milestones on the Ski Classics stage. Indeed, no journey is exempt from obstacles, and this Swedish Pro Tour skier encountered her fair share. Overcoming illnesses and unexpected challenges, this athlete’s resilience shone through as she adjusted her training plan and emerged stronger. 

Now that we are in the off-season, ProXCskiing talked to Sofie Elebro to know more about her training regimen and focus. Her commitment to refining technique, enhancing strength, and maintaining peak physical condition is a testament to her will to keep improving in the Ski Classics circuit.

In addition to off-season training, Elebro also shared her plans for participating in summer races and events, offering valuable insights into how these competitive endeavors contribute to her overall preparation for the upcoming season.

Looking ahead, we will explore Sofie’s primary goals and aspirations. Driven by a hunger for success and a desire to compete at the highest level, she articulates her ambitions for specific races and targeted achievements.

Congratulations on a great season! Can you share your overall thoughts on how the season went for you?

“Thanks! I started the season well, then had a difficult period with uneven results in the middle. However, I finished the season strongly in the last race weekend. I had some good races that I’m happy with, but I’m also disappointed with many races where I feel like I didn’t perform at my best.”

Looking at your results on the Ski Classics circuit, what were some of your highlights or standout performances during the season?

“I have to mention Reistadløpet and my 7th place there. That race was where I regained the level I know I have and strive for. Tjejvasan was also a good race for me, with a tenth-place finish and a good feeling.”

Were there any specific challenges or obstacles you faced throughout the season, and how did you overcome them?

“The biggest challenge was dealing with illnesses. It took a toll on me mentally when I wasn’t performing at my best and didn’t achieve the desired results during those moments. It all began with lingering flu over New Year’s, affecting my airways, and the symptoms persisted until Marcialonga. Then, after Jizerská, I experienced a stomachache. It was a bit of bad luck. I adjusted my training regimen to overcome these challenges, focusing on lighter sessions and ensuring proper recovery. I also made some dietary changes. These adjustments worked well, and my form improved just in time for the final weekend in northern Norway.”

Summer training plays a crucial role in an athlete’s preparation. Can you describe your training regimen and focus areas during the off-season?

“Apart from long roller ski sessions and various forms of intervals, I engage in running intervals outdoors and on treadmills. I also run in the mountains or forest. Additionally, I include long bike sessions in my training plan. Last summer, I cycled 370km in one day from Östersund to Saxnäs (Vildmarksvägen over Stekenjokk). I focus on developing my maximum speed on skis and achieving a fast start. Naturally, I also prioritize improving my technique and upper body strength.”

Will you participate in summer races or events to stay competitive during the off-season? If so, how do those races contribute to your training and preparation?

“Roller skiing has never been my favorite discipline, but I will take part in several roller ski competitions in August (World Classic Tour) with my Team Eksjöhus. These races provide challenging and valuable training sessions before the winter season, allowing me to practice skiing at high speeds and engage in beneficial balance training.

Looking ahead to the next season, what are your main goals and aspirations? Are there any specific races or achievements that you are targeting?

“My main goals are to stay healthy and consistently perform at a high level, competing for top 5 positions. I hope to achieve a podium finish in some races if everything goes perfectly. I’ve never placed in the top 5 at Vasaloppet and Marcialonga, so I aim for that. Races like La Diagonela and Reistadløpet suit me well, and I’m putting extra effort into them.”

Lastly, is there anything else you want to share about your season, summer training, or mindset going into the next season?

“I’ve had a lot of fun with Team Eksjöhus during the past season. It’s a really strong team and will be even stronger in the upcoming season. We continuously motivate and help each other to improve. Having fun and supporting each other are key ingredients for all of us.”

Read More – Silly Season: Swedish Pro Tour athlete extends with Team Eksjöhus