Jon Kistler’s journey into ski mountaineering began on training tours with his father for the PDG, where he discovered both a love for the mountains and a passion for competition. Inspired by athletes like Arno Lietha, Jon committed to competing at the highest level and continually pushing his limits.
His proudest achievement to date is winning a Bronze Medal at the World Championships, a milestone that marked his arrival among the sport’s elite. One defining moment in his career was realizing he had a genuine chance to qualify for the Olympics, which fueled his motivation and dedication.
Jon’s training is flexible, varying depending on location and conditions, and includes a mix of skiing and alternative workouts. His mental preparation centers on trusting his preparation: “The work is done, and I just have to do what I know to do. Nothing more and nothing less.”
Interestingly, much of Jon’s training isn’t even on skis, highlighting his focus on overall strength, endurance, and versatility.
Looking ahead, Jon aims to become an Olympic champion and win the World Championships. Through his journey, he hopes to inspire others by demonstrating excellence, friendship, and team spirit in sport.
