ACA Fitness Combine

ACA FITNESS COMBINE
The ACA Fitness Combine aims to implement a system-wide standardized testing protocol to ensure Canadian skiers are developing ski-specific physical fitness abilities as they progress through the athlete development pathway while tracking the progression of skiers.
PURPOSE
The development of general physical fitness is a necessary component for elite ski racers. Physical literacy, the establishment of efficient fundamental movement patterns in coordination in various situations, and the development of general strength, power, and endurance are critical neuromuscular and physiological capacities required of elite-level ski racers.
An athlete's fitness level will either support or inhibit technical skill development by greatly influencing their ability to tolerate the training volumes required across different stages of development.
Analysis and research have shown that the following physical fitness factors are characteristic of top ski racers:
- Good aerobic work capacity (high maximal oxygen uptake/VO2Max)
- Great muscular strength in terms of dynamic muscle function
- Significantly prolonged muscular endurance, in terms of dynamic muscle function in given submaximal work
- Well-developed muscular coordination
There may be certain situations where teams have access to more sophisticated testing methods. This nationwide physical fitness combine program does not prevent the inclusion of additional testing. Instead, it provides guidelines for benchmarking ski-specific fitness abilities that are important for all ski racers in the development pathway. A coach can use the data gathered from each test to determine an athlete's starting point more accurately with their developmental and physical fitness stages and track subsequent progress through re-evaluation. This will promote the construction of an appropriate training program that serves the athlete's needs in the context of their sport, ski racing, and is suitable for the athlete's capabilities.
In summary, the ACA Fitness Combine protocol represents a critical step forward in Canadian alpine ski racing. Standardized physical fitness testing implemented across various stages of development contribute to this cohesive pathway. A development pathway is not a series of independent stops as a skier ascends the ranks to international competition. Instead, it should be one continuous effort on behalf of all stakeholders to provide a fun, cohesive and exhilarating experience for all athletes.
PDF FILES
ACA Fitness Combine (Fall 2022) Protocol
ACA Fitness Combine (Fall 2022) Registration and Results Reporting Protocol 'How To Guide'
Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) 2014
ACA Fitness Combine Equipment, Facility and Administration Checklist
AUDIO FILES
AIS 20m Shuttle Run (Beep Test)