80. The Art of Ski Training and Recovery with U.S. Ski & Snowboard Strength and Conditioning Coach Brian Neff

In this episode, Michael Friedberg, a former U.S. Ski Team member, World Cup Mogul skier, all-around ski coach extraordinaire, and mastermind behind Academy Remote Coaching, shares his insights on everything from mastering moguls to navigating technical big mountain terrain with confidence. We dive into how mogul skills translate to big mountain skiing, why body position and commitment are game-changers on the slopes, and how breaking down skiing into drills can lead to real breakthroughs. Plus, Michael gives me some great tips for my own skiing, and I’m excited to share how you can access his coaching to elevate your skills this winter. Whether you’re looking to ski stronger, conquer new terrain, or just improve your technique, this episode is packed with actionable tips and strategies for skiers at every level. Follow him on IG: https://www.instagram.com/michaelfriedberg/ Send him an email: [email protected] Helpful links for better skiing:https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=U_uBz5EqF_pwAeta&v=AL9XlS3c0Hw&feature=youtu.be  https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=e-0Ay2YKPzROcZCV&v=rgX09AuRmM8&feature=youtu.be

Join me as I chat with Brian Neff, strength and conditioning coach for U.S. Ski and Snowboard adaptive athletes. We dive into the essentials of ski training, recovery tips for maximizing your days on the hill, and the power of creativity and fun in athletic performance. Whether you’re a pro or a weekend warrior, this episode is packed with actionable insights to elevate your ski season. If you have questions about strength training and adaptive skiing/snowboarding, reach out to Brian here: [email protected] Also, follow Coach Brian this season here: https://www.instagram.com/coach_neff/ 

In this episode of The Legaski Podcast, I take you behind the scenes of an unforgettable week working with the U.S. Paralympic Ski Team in Panorama, British Columbia. From icy racecourses to unexpected delays, I share what it’s like to support world-class athletes at the highest level of competition. Tune in as I discuss the art of adaptability, the power of communication, and the surprising parallels between elite skiers and recreational enthusiasts. You'll hear stories of helping athletes overcome setbacks, stay sharp during delays, and master their mindset for peak performance. Plus, find out how these lessons can apply to your skiing journey—whether you're chasing medals or just enjoying the slopes with friends. If you’re ready to elevate your ski game and gain a fresh perspective on what goes into ski racing, this episode is for you! Book a call with me: www.MeetTheSkiPT.com 

In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Couperthwait, VP of Product for Head/Tyrolia, to explore the Protector binding—an innovative alpine binding designed to reduce knee injuries by up to 50%. Andrew breaks down the unique lateral release mechanics and how this binding can minimize forces on the tibia and ACL during skiing's most injury-prone scenarios. We also discuss why this tech is a potential game-changer for skiers of all levels, from beginners to aggressive experts. Whether you’re coming back from a knee injury or looking to ski stronger and safer, this episode is packed with insights on why the Protector could be the future of bindings. Tune in for a fascinating look at how technology is reshaping the slopes for safety and performance. Learn more about the binding: https://www.tyrolia.com/en_US/protector?srsltid=AfmBOopoHODtCQwMk4BwmQRTcOYU-Tpv8l3d1Lb9Q9cv1VYcO4UPHb-d Follow Tyrolia on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tyroliabindings/

In this episode of the Legaski Podcast, I sit down with Shannon Maher, founder of Girls with Grit, a dynamic women’s coaching program focused on building confidence and skills in skiing, mountain biking, fly fishing, and more. Shan shares how she started Girls with Grit to help women close the skill gap and thrive in outdoor sports. We discuss her unique approach to coaching, how she helps women embrace challenges, and the importance of having fun while learning.  Whether you’re an intermediate skier looking to advance to black diamonds or an expert wanting to fine-tune your technique, Shan’s camps have something for everyone. Plus, we dive into tips on how to prepare for ski season and get the most out of your next camp experience. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about empowering women in the outdoors! Check out her camps: https://www.girlswithgrit.fit/ Follow her on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonmahre/?hl=en Follow Girls with Grit IG: https://www.instagram.com/girlswithgrit.adventureco/?hl=en  Sign up for 14-day Free Trial of Legaski Club: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup

On this episode of the Legaski Podcast, I’m stoked to chat with Martin Volken, owner of Pro Ski and Mountain Service, and Simon Weiler from Fritschi, a Swiss company that’s been designing ski touring bindings for over 60 years. We dive into what makes Fritschi bindings stand out from the competition—especially their focus on safety and performance. From the Tecton, which skis like an alpine binding but works for backcountry, to the ultra-light Xenic, we talk about which bindings are the best fit for your style of skiing. Whether you’re hitting big mountain lines or logging uphill laps, Martin and Simon give incredible insights into how to pick the right bindings and why Fritschi’s Swiss-made precision is something every backcountry skier should consider. If you’re into backcountry skiing or just love talking gear, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! You can learn more about the fritschi products via their website: ⁠https://fritschi.swiss/en/⁠ Follow Fritschi on IG: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/fritschiswiss/⁠ If you’re local to Seattle, visit Pro Ski North Bend: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/proskiservice/⁠ 

In this thrilling episode of the Legaski Podcast, we’re joined by Noah Dines, a ski tourer on an extraordinary mission to break the world record for the most uphill vertical feet skied in a single year—3 million feet! Noah takes us on his incredible journey, starting from his early days with a $100 telemark setup, all the way to becoming a Fischer-sponsored athlete. We discuss his physical and mental preparation for this record-breaking challenge, his experiences skiing year-round across the globe (including current adventures in Chile), and the motivation that drives him to push past 12,000 vertical feet a day. From navigating avalanche risks to finding the perfect balance between endurance and recovery, Noah provides unique insights into what it takes to achieve such a massive feat. Whether you’re an avid skier, endurance enthusiast, or someone looking for inspiration to push your limits, this episode is packed with insights on dedication, discipline, and the love for the uphill grind. Tune in to learn: How Noah prepares for and sustains skiing year-round His approach to nutrition and recovery to prevent overuse injuries The mental toughness required to chase a world record The gear and setups Noah trusts for his extreme skiing adventures His thoughts on the beauty and challenge of ski touring across different terrains Follow Noah on his adventure: https://www.instagram.com/noah.dines/?hl=en Trail the Legaski Club Free for 14-days ($40/mo after): https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup 

In this episode of the podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sven Brunso, a professional skier with over 30 years of experience in the ski industry and the Director of Marketing at Leki. Sven shared insights from his incredible journey, from being inspired by the iconic ski movie "Blizzard of Aahhh's" to becoming one of the most photographed skiers in the world. We dove into how he transitioned from a sponsored athlete to his current role, where he now oversees marketing at Leki and works closely with athletes and teams. Sven highlighted Leki's history, beginning in 1948, and how their unwavering focus on producing the best ski poles and gloves in the world has shaped the company into what it is today. A huge emphasis of the episode was the innovative trigger system Leki developed, which enhances grip and control—something I’ve experienced firsthand in my skiing career. Sven also spoke about Leki's commitment to sustainability, including their use of solar power and minimizing waste in production. He shared the story of the groundbreaking hemp poles Leki developed, pushing the boundaries of sustainable products in the ski industry. Finally, Sven reflected on the changes in the ski world over the past three decades, from the challenges athletes face to the rising costs of the sport. Despite the evolution of the industry, his passion for skiing remains as strong as ever. He even teased an upcoming film about his career, which will be showcased at the Backcountry Film Festival this winter. It was a great conversation with Sven, and I hope his story inspires you to keep pushing your limits on the mountain while enjoying every moment on the slopes. Check out products from Leki: https://lekiusa.com/ Follow Sven on social media: https://www.instagram.com/sbrunso/?hl=en Join the Legaski Club: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup 

In this episode, I dive into an exciting conversation with Alex, the VP of Marketing at Carv, to explore their innovative ski tech.  We discuss Carv’s origins, its founder’s mission to create a tool for real-time feedback on the slopes, and how the upcoming Carv 2 is revolutionizing the skiing experience. I’m especially excited about how Carv can provide data-driven insights to enhance both on-snow performance and gym-based training, helping skiers improve technique and reduce injury risk.  Whether you're an intermediate skier or a seasoned pro, Carv 2 offers the tools to take your skiing to the next level! Check out Carv: https://www.instagram.com/carv.ski/?hl=en  Purchase Carv here: https://getcarv.com/ 

In this solo episode of the Legaski Podcast, talk about Base Camp Strength and Mobility—the foundation for a powerful, pain-free ski season.  I’ll walk you through the essential strength and mobility work for your ankles, knees, hips, and spine, so you can hit the slopes with confidence.  We’ll cover key training principles like progressive overload and functional strength, and I'll share a simple 6-week plan to get you ready before the season starts. If you’re ready to take your training to the next level, join me in the Legaski Club this month. We’re focusing on Peak Power—final preparations before ski season kicks off.  You’ll get exclusive content, custom workouts, and all the community support you need to make this your best ski season yet! Try the Legaski Club Free for 14-days ($40/mo. after) Click Here to Join: https://legacyrehabandperformance.com/legaskiclub-signup