Ski Touring / Ski Randonnée

If you’re new to ski touring—also known as ski randonnée—you quickly realize that climbing 800–1000 vertical meters is no joke. The heavy breathing on steeper sections, the burning legs, the warm sun on your back, and maybe… the classic first-tour blisters from boots that still need to break in.

It’s all part of the journey. Your gear needs time to adapt to you, and you need time to discover the rhythm of the mountains.

From First Ski Tour to Feeling Stronger

On the 18th of November – 25, I went out for another ski tour. My first tour this season was on the 4th of November 2025—and already something had changed.

No blisters. No sore feet. Just the pure challenge of climbing 1000 vertical meters under my own power.

Still hard, absolutely—but the kind of effort that rewards you with strength, confidence, and the “earn your turns” feeling that makes ski touring so addictive.
The reward and satisfaction at the top is worth every step.

ALL Ski Touring Levels in the Arlberg Region

Working with guests in the Arlberg has shown me that ski touring looks different for everyone. Not all skiers want the long, demanding missions. There are different levels—and all are valid.

Sure, some are hardcore and love climbing for 3 hours. I guide them too, and I stay fit for those longer days. I even enjoy them myself—no need to cancel the big missions!

We are all human. I might not walk uphill as fast as a mountain man—women and men are physiologically different—but I’m definitely not slow compared to most of my guests 😉

Shorter Ski Tours Are Perfect for Most Guests

Most visitors to the Arlberg prefer shorter ascents:
200–800 vertical meters, usually 50 minutes to 2,5 hours uphill.

And that’s perfect, because the Arlberg offers countless ski tours with:
• minimal uphill effort
• beautiful terrain
• long and playful descents far away from the crowds

People who come for a one-week ski holiday are not always mountain-fit—and that’s completely normal. Altitude, cold, and thinner air make everything feel different than training at sea level.

But the experience is still amazing, no matter the fitness level.

The Magic of Ski Touring in the Arlberg

This is the true magic of ski touring:
• deeper nature
• quieter terrain
• untouched snow
• a stronger connection to the mountains

Backcountry skiing offers an entirely different experience than skiing on the pistes. When you earn your turns, you feel much more connected to nature and the landscape around you.

Learning the Basics on Your First Ski Tour

Your first ski tour is also about learning. There’s a lot to get familiar with:

• How to put skins on and take them off
• How to adjust bindings
• How to take skis on and off efficiently
• How to dress correctly for changing temperatures
• How to manage layers while moving

These may seem like small details, but they make a huge difference. After a few tours, everything comes together naturally—you move more confidently, prepare better, and feel truly comfortable in the backcountry.

Food & Preparation: What to Bring

• Water
• Snacks
• Small sandwich or energy bar
• Gloves, extra layer
• Sunscreen
• Charged phone

And of course—backcountry safety equipment is non-negotiable:

• Avalanche transceiver
• Probe
• Shovel
• Small first aid kit

If you’re new to ski touring or want to improve, going with a certified mountain or ski guide is the best (and safest) way to grow. You learn pacing, technique, terrain reading, and smart decision-making—everything that transforms a nice tour into an unforgettable one.

Join Me for Ski Touring in the Arlberg

If you’re curious about ski touring in the Arlberg—whether it’s your first short ascent or you’re ready for a bigger mission—I’d love to guide you.

The mountains are waiting, and so are the fresh lines.

Join me for a guided ski tour and find your rhythm in the skintrack.
👉 You can book me here!

— Freeridegirl

By Anne-Louise S. Jørgensen, Ski Instructor & Off-Piste Guide in St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria.

How do I stay fit year-round for the ski season?

This is a frequent question I receive. For me, maintaining fitness all year has become a lifestyle commitment; I prioritize staying active and training my body. While there are periods of more intensive training, I also allow time for recovery, mobility, and stretching exercises.

Seasonal Variation

Summer & autumn

From June to September, when I’m in Denmark, I do a lot of running and cycle occasionally. I’m also active as a kitesurfer. From September to November, when I’m mostly in Austria, I prefer running and hiking in the mountains, along with mobility and stretching exercises on my rest days.

Winter

During winter, from December to end of April, my daily routine mainly consists of skiing, both on-piste and off-piste. Some days are more active than others, and I always adjust my training according to my body’s needs. I focus on swimming and taking long walks with my dog. As I age, it’s crucial to care for my joints and prevent injuries, so strength training is a year-round priority. I mainly use bodyweight and full-body exercises but may emphasize cardio training at times, as I enjoy the feeling it provides.

Importance of Base Fitness

I maintain a baseline fitness level that varies with the season and my athletic goals. It’s essential to me to have a strong and healthy body to tackle winter challenges and enjoy kitesurfing in the summer. This balance is something I strive to keep throughout my life.

8 Tips to Stay Fit for Your Ski Holiday or Ski Season

1. Mix Up Your Training: Experiment with a variety of sports or activities that challenge your body in different ways. This keeps your training fresh and engages different muscle groups, enhancing your overall fitness.
2. Combine Strength and Cardio: It’s vital to balance strength training with cardio. Strength exercises build muscle and help prevent injuries, while cardio activities like running and swimming boost endurance and cardiovascular health for longer ski outings.
3. Prioritize Core and Leg Workouts: Your core and legs are critical for winter sports. Incorporate exercises like planks and squats to strengthen these areas and minimize injury risks.
4. Focus on Mobility and Stretching: Winter activities can put a strain on your body, making regular stretching and mobility exercises essential for keeping muscles and joints flexible and injury-free.
5. Don’t Neglect Upper Body Training: Often overlooked, upper body workouts are essential. Push-ups and shoulder exercises help prevent injuries, especially as weak shoulder muscles can lead to problems when skiing or using poles.
6. Maintain a Healthy Diet: A nutritious and varied diet is essential for achieving and sustaining fitness. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein to provide your body with energy and nutrients. Consider vitamin and fish oil supplements for your immune system and joint health.
7. Stay Hydrated: Regardless of the temperature, it’s vital to drink enough water to stay hydrated. Physical activities can make you sweat, and replacing lost fluids is key to avoiding dehydration. Be mindful of how altitude and sun exposure affect your body.
8. Listen to Your Body: Winter can be tough, so pay attention to what your body tells you. If you feel tired or sore, take a break to allow for recovery. It’s essential to know your limits and not force yourself into activities that could lead to injury.

A FIT body Makes Everything More Enjoyable

Winter is a fantastic time of year, and with these tips, you can stay fit and healthy to enjoy various seasonal sports and activities. Remember to have fun, challenge yourself, and listen to your body—this way, you’ll be well-prepared for winter!

/Anne-Louise