Mathilde Myhrvold Adapts to Therese Johaug's Training Intensity

Mathilde Myhrvold Adapts to Therese Johaug's Training Intensity

Originally published in NRK on October 04, 2024

Therese Johaug, the renowned skier from Dalsbygda, is making headlines with her remarkable return to the national team. However, it's not just her stellar performances that are capturing attention—it's the powerful influence of her intense training regimen on her teammates. Mathilde Myhrvold, one of her fellow team members, has revealed how Johaug’s comeback has revitalized their training environment.

During a recent press conference, Johaug expressed her surprise at her own fitness after a break from competition, saying, "I thought I had become slow and old, but it turns out there is still some power in my body."

As they embarked on their initial training runs, Myhrvold quickly realized that she needed to modify her pace to keep her heart rate in check. "I started off running while chatting with her, but then I noticed my heart rate spiking, so I had to slow down a bit," she admitted.

Johaug has been dedicating over 100 hours to training throughout August, matching her pre-hiatus levels. She emphasizes that while training for sprint intervals is essential, actual competition poses a whole new set of challenges. "We’ll see when the season starts who performs best in the races," she added.

Initially apprehensive about Johaug's intensity, teammates like Lotta Udnes Weng have now come to appreciate the high standards she sets. "When she returns, she brings a level of performance we all got used to during her previous time on the team, and this is likely to elevate everyone’s game," Weng noted.

In conclusion, Johaug's return is not only a personal victory but also serves as a driving force for her teammates, inspiring them to adapt and harness her competitive energy as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Photo: Johaug at a press conference held at Mosetertoppen ski stadium.