FAQs

What is biathlon?

Biathlon is an Olympic winter sport, which combines competitive, free-technique cross-country skiing and small-bore rifle marksmanship.

The sport is a challenging (but fun!) combination of physical exertion and mental focus.

In British Columbia and around the world, Biathlon competitions are held where a series of different race formats are held over several days. A typical competition weekend in BC would include a day for formal training, followed by a sprint race on Saturday, and then perhaps a mass start on Sunday.

On the European World Cup circuit, a competition would involve more races, such as a relay or individual race.

Is biathlon safe?
Yes!

The skiing component of biathlon promotes physical fitness, while the shooting component cultivates focus and mental acuity. The sport, due to its use of firearms, is subject to the strictest rules – all in the name of safety and fun. In fact, the sport is so safe that individuals across the world, as young as 5, are able to participate – all with significantly less injuries than most other sports.

Is biathlon just for professional athletes?
While biathlon is an Olympic sport, it is not just for elite athletes. In fact, individuals across the world, of varying fitness levels, enjoy the physical and mental benefits of the sport. At our Club, we actively promote the excitement and the fitness benefits of the sport, and welcome all who wish to give it a shot!

Biathlon provides many opportunities to focus on your own personal fitness goals. If you are looking to get fit, this is your sport! If you are looking for a competitive venue to challenge your limits, look no further!

Is it hard to train for biathlon?
While biathlon is traditionally a winter sport, one can train for this sport through the whole year. By partaking in other sports, such as running, cycling, and hiking, you are also contributing to your success in biathlon.

Our club focuses on the shooting component of the sport, along with some ski instruction. If you wish to further hone your skiing skills, we recommend you sign up with one the excellent programs offered by the Strathcona Nordic Ski Club.

Winter just isn’t my thing. Can I still participate?
As mentioned, biathlon is traditionally a winter sport. However, due to its immense popularity across the world, variations of summer biathlon have been developed. Summer biathlon involves the combination of either roller skiing, mountain biking, or running, alongside marksmanship.

If winter just isn’t your thing, fear not! You can still participate in this exciting sport. VIBC offers two fun bike/running biathlon races each summer.

Sounds great! How do I get started?
If you are already loading your skis into your car as you read this website, we don’t blame you! Biathlon is so exciting that you will probably feel the urge to participate, regardless of the season. But hold on! Sign up for a membership and program at our club, and let us know what your goals are. Remember, if you have any questions, we want to hear them, so drop us a line.

Follow the link below to learn more about the sport of Biathlon. If there’s something missing from our FAQs, please e-mail us and we’ll add it in. Thanks!