About
CXC Academy is a dedicated online training platform for cross-country and Nordic skiers who want structured guidance, expert coaching, and effective periodization throughout the season and off-season. All training plans are delivered through TrainingPeaks, accessible via web and mobile app, making it easy to follow workouts, track progress, and stay on schedule whether you're training at home or on the trail. The platform is backed by a team of certified coaches, movement advisors, and guest Olympians — including 2026 Olympian Zak Ketterson and CXC Executive Director Yuriy Gusev — who bring elite-level insight to recreational and competitive skiers alike. Members receive email support and access to a growing video library covering ski technique, drills, and strength training. CXC Academy also publishes free monthly training tips and technique videos, making it useful even for skiers not yet on a paid plan. The platform caters to a wide audience: from beginners building a fitness base to experienced racers chasing podiums at events like the American Birkebeiner. Athletes have reported PRs, age-group awards, and significant improvements in technique and fitness after following CXC programs. Whether you're balancing skiing with work and family or preparing seriously for competition, CXC Academy provides the structure, community, and expertise to elevate your training.
Key Features
- TrainingPeaks-Integrated Plans: All training plans are delivered through TrainingPeaks, available on both desktop and mobile app, enabling athletes to follow structured workouts and track progress seamlessly.
- Certified & Elite Coaching Staff: Access guidance from certified coaches, Olympians, and movement advisors including 2026 Olympian Zak Ketterson and CXC Executive Director Yuriy Gusev.
- Free Monthly Training Tips & Videos: A regularly updated video library with free technique videos, ski drills, and training tips to keep athletes motivated and improving all season long.
- Strength & Movement Training: Functional strength and movement programming from advisor Steve Myrland, designed to complement on-snow training and reduce injury risk.
- Email Coach Support: Members receive direct email support from the coaching team to address questions, adjust plans, and stay on track with their individual goals.
Use Cases
- A recreational skier preparing for a major Nordic race like the American Birkebeiner follows a periodized CXC training plan through TrainingPeaks to peak at race day.
- An off-season cross-country skier uses the free monthly technique videos and strength training content to maintain fitness and refine form between snow seasons.
- A masters athlete competing in XC ski world cup events subscribes to a performance plan and leverages email coaching support to address age-group specific training needs.
- A Nordic ski coach browses the video library for fresh drills and training ideas to incorporate into athlete practices throughout the season.
- A busy professional balancing work and family uses CXC Academy's structured plans to eliminate guesswork and train efficiently in limited weekly hours.
Pros
- Structured, Expert-Backed Plans: Plans are built by certified coaches with elite Nordic ski experience, giving athletes a clear, periodized roadmap rather than guessing at workouts.
- Free Content to Get Started: Monthly free technique videos and training tips lower the barrier to entry, letting skiers experience the quality of instruction before committing to a paid plan.
- TrainingPeaks Integration: Seamless delivery through TrainingPeaks means athletes can use a familiar platform with built-in analytics, compliance tracking, and mobile access.
- Proven Athlete Results: Numerous testimonials cite PRs, podiums, and improved fitness — demonstrating real-world effectiveness for both recreational and competitive skiers.
Cons
- Sport-Specific Niche: The platform is exclusively focused on cross-country and Nordic skiing, making it irrelevant for athletes in other sports or disciplines.
- Requires TrainingPeaks Account: Athletes must use and navigate TrainingPeaks to access plans, which may add friction for those unfamiliar with the platform.
- Limited Personalization Without Direct Coaching: Standard plan tiers may not fully accommodate individual injury histories, scheduling constraints, or highly specific competitive goals without upgrading to personal coaching.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are CXC Academy training plans delivered?
All training plans are delivered through TrainingPeaks, which is available as a web app and mobile app on iOS and Android. After signing up, you'll receive access to your plan directly within TrainingPeaks.
Is CXC Academy suitable for beginner skiers?
Yes. CXC Academy offers plans for a range of skill levels, from beginners building a fitness foundation to competitive racers preparing for events like the American Birkebeiner.
Can I access content without a paid membership?
Yes. CXC Academy publishes free monthly training tips and ski technique videos in their Video Library, available to anyone without a paid subscription.
Who are the coaches behind CXC Academy?
The coaching team includes CXC Executive Director and performance coach Yuriy Gusev, guest coach and 2026 Olympian Zak Ketterson, and movement advisor Steve Myrland, among others.
Does CXC Academy offer support if I have questions about my training?
Yes. All memberships include email support from the coaching staff to help you get the most out of your plan and address any questions along the way.
