Behind the Scenes with the National Ski Team: Charlotte Lalonde's Journey as a Sport Physiotherapist in Chile

Meet Charlotte Lalonde, a dedicated sport physiotherapist at Cedar Rock Wellness, known for her passion for helping athletes perform at their best. Recently, Charlotte had an incredible opportunity to join the National Ski Team on their off-season training trip to the stunning landscapes of Chile. Surrounded by the breathtaking Andes Mountains, she played a vital role in supporting the athletes' training and recovery, ensuring they stayed in peak condition for the upcoming season.

In this blog, Charlotte shares her experience of working with elite athletes, the unique challenges of off-season training in high-altitude terrain, and the insights she gained about the rigorous preparation that goes into world-class skiing. From early morning workouts to personalized recovery sessions, join us as we dive into Charlotte's exciting adventure and her essential role in keeping the National Ski Team in top shape.

I’m excited to share some highlights from my recent trip to Chile, where I had the pleasure of working with the Canadian ski team as their physiotherapist. Here’s a snapshot of this memorable journey:

Arrival and Scenic Beauty

My adventure began with a warm welcome in Santiago. The city’s vibrant energy and the stunning Andes set the scene for an incredible experience. The drive to the ski resort was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing Chile’s diverse and breathtaking landscapes.

Supporting the Canadian Ski Team

Working with the Canadian ski team was both challenging and rewarding. My role involved providing injury prevention, treatment, and on-the-spot care as the athletes tackled the demanding conditions of their training and competitions.

Unforgettable Moments

Two experiences truly stand out:

●      Early Mornings on the Slopes: The tranquility of the slopes at dawn was magical. Watching the first light touch the snow-covered peaks was a beautiful start to each day and a reminder of the unique beauty of winter sports.

●      Sunset Over Santiago: After a day on the slopes, the sunset casting a golden glow over Santiago was breathtaking. It was the perfect moment to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Cultural Delights

Chile also offered wonderful cultural experiences:

●      Chilean BBQ (Asado): Enjoying a traditional Chilean BBQ was a highlight. The flavors of grilled meats and fresh sides were delicious, and the lively atmosphere made the meal even more enjoyable.

●      Classic Pisco Sour: No trip to Chile would be complete without trying a Pisco Sour. This tangy and refreshing cocktail was the perfect way to celebrate the end of the trip.

●      Los Dominicos Art Market: Exploring the Los Dominicos Art Market was a unique experience. This vibrant market, set in a picturesque location, offered a rich array of local crafts, artworks, and traditional goods. It was a wonderful way to immerse myself in Chilean culture and artistry.

Professional Growth

This trip was a fantastic opportunity for professional growth. Meeting new athletes and staff allowed me to learn from their experiences and perspectives, enriching my own practice. The exchange of knowledge and insights was invaluable and added a new dimension to my work.

Stay in Touch

I’d love to hear your thoughts or answer any questions you might have about my trip. Feel free to reply to this email or connect with me @charlottelalondephysio and @cedarrockwellness

Thank you for following along on this incredible journey!