First up is….
Justin Freeman
Progress In The Making For Hard Working Athlete
First year US Ski Team member Justin Freeman is currently making solid progress after moving to Park City in July to train with the rest of the National team. Skiing technically better, running faster, a lot stronger, training smarter and better, are key words describing Justin Freeman according to the coaches.
Fasterskier.com got a chance to ask him a few questions following the October 20, 10K running time-trial at Soldier Hollow. Here he placed second to his brother Kris Freeman (23 seconds behind), but beating his old PR by 3 seconds.
 the second time Kris has ever beaten me in a running event. The first time was in this same running time-trial two months ago. I’m however “up on him” three to two, after beating him in three other running competitions this year including a 5K road-race, a 3000 meter on the track and last month’s 10K test. The problem is that when we add up the five races I’m 45 seconds behind! – I will request more track or flat course time-trials from the coaches next year!” </p>
<p><B>Are you disappointed that Kris and Carl will get to race the November and December World Cup races while you do the domestic “Super Tour” and wait until January to see how you’ll do in competition with the World’s best?</B><br />
“Well, I wouldn’t be upset if I had been asked to ski World Cup before Christmas. On the other hand I’m newlywed and it will be good to first do domestic races and then focus on one main Euro trip. I hope to win some (domestic) races but know I will be challenged, which is good – it makes you focused”.</p>
<p><B>What’s the difference in you training last year when you were on your own and this year training with the team?</B><br />
“Last fall I was training at sea-level in New Hampshire and working as a high school teacher. Moving to Park City means (high) altitude training, but I have in previous years lived and trained in both Flagstaff, Arizona and Boulder, Colorado and have no problems in making the altitude adjustment. The adjustment takes me normally 1-2 weeks.<br />
The move and added coaching has made me more mature as an athlete. I’m able to focus better on the important aspects of training.”</p>
<p><B>What training changes have you made?</B><br />
“The high volume weeks have more hours. I have done more speed, strength and technique. I have also trained more during the average weeks but interestingly my total hours from the spring until now is 20 to 30 hours less than last year. I got sick a few times including right after returning from New Zealand. That brings the average down a little”.</p>
<p><b>When was your highest volume week?</B><br />
“In New Zealand skiing in August. 25 hours, thirteen workouts including one 10K classic time-trial, one intensity 3 session, 2 technique sessions and two strength workouts”. </p>
<p>Fasterskier.com wishes Justin Freeman good luck with the upcoming racing season.</p>
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