BEITOSTØLEN, Norway – “I’ve taken stock of the situation this fall and been extra diligent about resting between workouts. And I feel like it’s paying off on the course,” Johaug told the Norwegian TV station NRK.
Johaug entered the World Cup circuit in the 2006-2007 season, at only 18. That year, she won the bronze at the 2007 World Championships in Sapporo, Japan. She continued to improve the following two seasons, but last year Johaug found herself struggling find her groove. She managed to make the Olympic team, and helped Norway win the relay gold at the 2010 Games in Whistler, but this season, Johaug significantly changed her training program, with the goal of peaking for the 2011 World Championships in Oslo.
“I feel that I have more energy and that I manage to complete my tasks the way I need to. And I feel like I am doing things right now,” she said.
More no, but with guilt
The 22-year-old from Dalsbygda in east central Norway is known for her outgoing, charming personality and for participating in activities outside of the ski track. But Johaug has cut back drastically this World Championship season. She has had to say no to almost all inquiries from non-ski specific offers.