I tested it for you Summer biathlon Savoie Grand Revard

I’ve tested it for you!

Who said biathlon was only for winter? At Savoie Grand Revard, the discipline can also be enjoyed in summer, thanks to the ski-wheels. Between concentration, adrenalin and grandiose landscapes, I put on the equipment to try out this activity that’s as surprising as it is addictive. Ready to discover summer biathlon in the heart of Chambéry Montagnes?

A unique experience
in the heart of
Chambéry Mountains

You’re probably familiar with biathlon, the winter sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Born of military training, it has established itself as a demanding and fascinating discipline. But did you know that there is also a summer version? Cross-country skis are replaced by ski-wheels on asphalt, offering a different approach that’s just as intense. Curious to discover this experience, I tested the summer biathlon for you at Savoie Grand Revard, an exceptional site with 150 km of Nordic trails. We headed for La Féclaz, to the Alexis Bœuf stadium, named after the three-time world medallist from Chambéry.

Summer biathlon - Savoie Grand Revard

First sensations :
aim accurately,
breathing at the right pace!

The experience starts with an introduction to biathlon with Biathlon Expérience, a passionate team offering sessions accessible to all, on skis, wheels or on foot. The team’s friendly approach is ideal for beginners and the more athletic alike.

The first contact is with the pellet rifle. You start by shooting lying down with a support, aiming at targets 10 metres away. It sounds simple, but precision requires concentration and breath control. Next, remove the support and stabilise your position naturally. Breathing becomes a key factor in avoiding any tremors and getting the shot off. Finally, we move on to the standing shot, a more complex event where balance is essential. You need to find a foothold, avoid waiting too long and fire at the right moment.

The highlight of the show? Shooting with a 22 long rifle, which plunges us into the world of professional biathletes. This time, the targets are 50 metres away. The sensation of shooting is impressive! Each successful shot brings real satisfaction and the desire to progress.

Nordic ski schools

The switch
to ski-wheels :
between apprehension
and adrenalin

After this introduction to shooting, it’s time for the ski-wheels. While shooting requires calm and precision, ski-wheeling puts your balance and endurance to the test.

You put on your special shoes, adjust your helmet and your elbow and knee pads, and then it’s time to slide down the asphalt. The first thing you notice is that it feels very different from cross-country skiing! On the snow, the pressure is gentler, whereas here, every movement is more direct and more demanding. There’s always the fear of falling, but the coaching helps you quickly gain confidence and find your rhythm.

Ski-wheeling puts a huge strain on the muscles, particularly those of the legs and upper body. You have to manage your energy, coordinate your movements well and adopt an efficient posture to avoid imbalances. After a few warm-up laps, you’re off on a more dynamic course, where every bend and climb requires extra effort.

A biathlon-style
like a biathlon

Once you’re comfortable with the ski-wheeler, it’s time for a full course combining sliding and shooting, just like a real biathlon race. The challenge: complete a series of laps around the track and come back shooting at a higher heart rate.

From the very first laps, you realise just how difficult this discipline is. Your breath quickens, your muscles heat up, and yet you still have to shoot precisely. Every penalty means an extra lap, just like in a real competition. The experience quickly becomes immersive and fun, and the adrenalin builds as the rounds go by. You get caught up in the game, trying to improve your time, refine your technique and stabilise your shot despite fatigue.

Why try
summer biathlon
at Chambéry Montagnes?

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a sportsman looking for a challenge or just curious, summer biathlon is a must-try activity! It combines technique, concentration and endurance in an exceptional natural setting.

As well as being an excellent physical workout, this activity gives you a better understanding of the demands of winter biathlon. The Savoie Grand Revard ski area is ideally located near Chambéry, offering an immersion experience in the heart of the mountains while still being easily accessible.

Fancy the experience? Book your session with Biathlon Expérience and come and take up the challenge! With its thrills, precision and challenge, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never look at biathlon in the same way again.

Practical info

Where: Alexis Boeuf Stadium, La Féclaz – Savoie Grand Revard
Who does it for? Open to everyone aged 10 and over
When? All summer, booking recommended
Equipment? Provided on site (ski-wheels, rifle, protective gear)