Red Carpets, Training Reset, & Big Goals Ahead

Hello from Norway! I’m now back in Trondheim, where we’re waiting on snow to arrive so we can officially start preparing for the first World Cup — less than a month away! The excitement is definitely building, and I can feel that same pre-season energy returning that I’ve missed so much. Since my last update, life has been a whirlwind in the best way possible. Between traveling to New York City for the U.S. Ski Team Gala, spending much-needed time at home in Steamboat, and diving into a new training block, I’m feelingboth recharged and motivated as winter quickly approaches.

U.S. Ski Team Gala in New York City

One of the biggest highlights of this past monthwas getting the opportunity to attend the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Gold Medal Gala in New York City! The whole event was so well put together — from walking the red carpet with Niklas, to meeting donors, supporters, and other athletes who share the same passion for this sport.

The energy in the room was incredible. It reminded me how special our community is — full of people who believe in pushing limits and supporting athletes’ journeys at every level. Getting to spend two days in the city was such a refreshing change of pace, and the whole experience gave me a deeper appreciation for the people behind the scenes who make our seasons possible.

Home Sweet Steamboat 

After that trip, I flew home to Steamboat — and wow, I didn’t realize how much I needed that time. Being home with my family, sleeping in my own bed, and not having to live out of a suitcase for once was the reset I didn’t know I needed.

Time at home meant recharging mentally while staying focused on training. I balanced long endurance days with strength sessions and got back into a steady rhythm that’s helping me feel stronger than ever. There’s something grounding about being surrounded by the people and the mountains that shaped me.

Training Update

Training lately has been exciting — and a little different! The past two years under my Norwegian coaches, the focus was on staying below threshold (Level 3) for all interval work. But this season, with my new coaching team, we’re trying something new: most of my interval sessions are now in Level 4, meaning I’m almost hitting what I would in an actual race.

It’s definitely a challenge, but I can already feel my body responding in a new way. The consistency of training this fall has made me more confident, both physically and mentally. Even though U.S. Nationals didn’t pan out how I hoped, I’m keeping my head high — because at the end of the day, that’s not what we’re working for. The bigger goals are still ahead, and this block is all about building toward the winter World Cup season.

A New Short Film with Kari Traa ❤️

I’m also really excited to share that my newest short film with Kari Traa was just released! This project has been in the works since March and focuses on the question, “What is your fight?”

It was such a meaningful experience to create with a brand that truly supports strong, confident women — both in sport and in life. ? Watch “My Fight” on YouTube

Looking Ahead ❄️

As I head into November, I’m feeling grateful — for the experiences that fill my days, the people who believe in me, and the lessons that keep showing up in and out of sport. This fall has been about trusting the process, finding joy in consistency, and preparing for what’s to come.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. Your belief in me truly fuels this journey — and I can’t wait to carry all this positive momentum into the start of the competition season.

With love and gratitude,
Annika