How many races and training days should a U12 racer have in a season?
Guideline- Canada
- Alpine Canada
- Ski racing
- Entry Level
- U12
- Learn to Train
- 2026-27
- Parents
Alpine Canada's Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD 3.0) Learn to Train guidance for U12 skiers:
- Competition: 10 to 12 competition days per season (U10 skiers: 6 to 8). The parent page for the stage gives "about 8 to 12 starts per season".
- Days on snow: at least 60 per year, with a structured club program two days a week and a third day recommended. Optional off-season camps add 7 to 10 days.
- Before racing: 10 to 15 training days before entering any competition, and at least two training days per competition start.
- Free skiing: 50 to 65% of on-snow time should be "playtime" in bumps, steeps, terrain parks and trees.
- Focus: skill development, not individual results.
As one provincial example, Alpine Ontario caps domestic U12 starts at six per athlete, including festivals and invitationals.
Sources: ltad.alpinecanada.org/stages/learn-to-train/training-and-competition, ltad.alpinecanada.org/parents/learn-to-train-parents, and alpineontario.ca/alpine-ontario-alpin-racing/u10-12-racing-program/.
Updated 25 Oct 2026