A Quiet Moment Before the Speed
At 2,000 m high, a small wooden hut sits beside the roaring crowd. It’s warm and offers a break from the wind for skiers waiting to race—some see it as a calm pause, others feel their nerves grow louder.
Countdown Beeps
The countdown starts with beeps:
- 30 seconds
- 10 seconds
- Then a rapid count to one.
Even in summer, the sound can stir anxiety. Athletes listen carefully, preparing mentally for the drop.
Pre‑Race Routine
Before entering the hut, skiers ride a chairlift up the slope. They may:
- Warm up by skiing freely or doing a quick practice run
- Stretch, focus on breathing
This routine helps control the body’s reaction to pressure.
Managing Adrenaline
- Heart rate rises, breath quickens, muscles tense when adrenaline spikes.
- Too much can hurt balance and decision‑making.
Coaches teach ways to calm the nervous system: feel the boots, relax the jaw, or slow breathing.
Personal Coping Techniques
- Music can drown out thoughts.
- Some listen to the wind and trees instead.
- A simple mantra like “stay smooth” or “keep it simple” keeps the mind focused.
The Final Push
When the timer starts, every second counts. A good push off the gate can set the whole run.
- Some athletes use a visual cue—imagine a tiny object—to anchor attention.
- As the final beep sounds, they let that image fade and feel ready.
Shared Purpose
The hut is closed to everyone except the racer, a coach, and officials. Yet a sense of shared purpose unites competitors from all nations. In that silence, they each try to keep calm and be present.
The Power of Breathing
The breathing techniques used are more than just relaxation; they help the brain make quick, clear decisions. When calm, muscles stay flexible and ready for the speed that follows.
