Unlocking Your Potential: Training Insights from Olympian Ryan Cochran-Siegle

Ryan Cochran-Siegle, an accomplished skier from a family of Olympians, has carved his own path in the world of alpine skiing. Following in the footsteps of his mother, Barbara Ann Cochran, who clinched gold in the giant slalom at the 1972 Sapporo Games, Ryan has participated in three Winter Olympics and earned a silver medal at the PyeongChang Games. In this article, we’ll explore Cochran-Siegle’s training philosophy and exercises that can help anyone become a well-rounded athlete.

Photo Credit: Justin Steele

Strength Training for Skiing

Despite skiing’s emphasis on speed, Cochran-Siegle emphasizes the critical role of strength, particularly in the lower body. “Quad strength is incredibly important,” he notes. To build this strength, he recommends deep squats, which allow you to work with heavy loads. Incorporating a higher number of sets into your routine can significantly enhance your strength. Additionally, he stresses the importance of exercising your glutes and hamstrings with movements like Romanian Deadlifts (RDLs).

Practical Tip:

• Deep Squats: Always aim for a higher number of sets to build strength.
• RDLs: Focus on engaging your glutes and hamstrings for a balanced lower-body workout.

Photo Credit: Mattia Ozbot / Getty Images

Emphasizing Versatility

Cochran-Siegle believes that versatility is vital for skiers, who must develop a wide range of athletic skills: stability, endurance, and strength. “You need to incorporate all those aspects into one thing,” he explains. Skiing events are long, requiring a blend of multiple fitness attributes. Achieving balance in your training will make you a more effective athlete on the slopes and in various sports.

Practical Tip:

• Cross-Training: Incorporate various types of exercise—strength training, cardio, and flexibility work—to build a well-rounded athletic profile.

Enhancing Your Squat Technique

For those looking to deepen their squats, Cochran-Siegle offers a simple adjustment: elevate your heels on 10-pound plates during your squats. This modification can increase your range of motion, allowing for better technique and increased strength development.

Practical Tip:

• Heel Elevation: Use plates to elevate your heels when squatting. This can help you achieve a deeper squat and improve overall performance.

Photo Credit: Justin Steele

Conclusion

Training like a champion doesn’t have to be confined to elite athletes. By adopting principles from Ryan Cochran-Siegle’s training regimen, you can work towards becoming a more versatile and well-rounded athlete. Focus on developing strength, incorporating various exercises into your routine, and refining your techniques for optimal performance. Whether you’re an aspiring skier or simply looking to enhance your fitness, these tips can set you on the path to success. Embrace the challenge and unlock your full potential!