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Theory and Practice of Physical Culture and Sports

Article

Ski mountaineering as a new Olympic sport: Development trends and training requirements for athletes

Serhii Trachuk
Retrieved from Vol. 5, No. 1, 2026 Pages 47–57
Received
15.12.2025
Revised
14.04.2026
Accepted
12.05.2026
Published
26.06.2026
Views
58

Abstract

The aim of the study was to identify the characteristic features of the organisation of training for ski mountaineering athletes, based on trends in its development in the context of its attainment of Olympic status. The research methodology was based on the use of historical-logical, analytical-synthetic, structural-functional and generalising- comparative methods, which ensured a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of ski mountaineering, current trends in its development and the specifics of training athletes in mountain conditions. It was found that ski mountaineering has evolved from a practical means of movement in mountainous conditions into a structured international sport combining mountaineering techniques, ski training and high demands on physical endurance. Its institutionalisation through international federations, the standardisation of competitions and its inclusion in the Olympic programme reflect the transition to a modern, high-tech discipline integrated into the global sporting system. It was noted that the contemporary development of ski mountaineering is characterised by a rapid rise in popularity, a shift towards short, highly dynamic competition formats, and a significant increase in the intensity of physical exertion. At the same time, equipment is becoming more technologically advanced and the training process is intensifying, which, together with its inclusion in the Olympic programme, is transforming the sport into a media-friendly and highly specialised discipline. Its inclusion in the Olympic programme and the reduction in the duration of competition formats by 90- 95% reflect its transformation into a high-speed and technology-oriented discipline with an emphasis on media appeal and efficiency. It was found that the training system combines endurance, strength, coordination and technical skills, ensuring the comprehensive adaptation of athletes to challenging mountain conditions and variable loads. The practical significance of this work lies in the possibility of using the results obtained to improve the training system for athletes in ski mountaineering and other mountain endurance sports, thereby enhancing their physical performance, technical efficiency and adaptation to challenging environmental conditions

Keywords

aerobic endurance; mountain conditions; biomechanics of movement; physiological stress; training

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Suggested citation

Trachuk, S. (2026). Ski mountaineering as a new Olympic sport: Development trends and training requirements for athletes. Theory and Practice of Physical Culture and Sports, 5(1), 47-57. https://doi.org/10.69587/tppcs/1.2026.47