Hike the Course: A Journey of Family, Passion and Olympic Success for Inspiring and Transforming Athletes of all Ages

by Barbara Ann Cochran

"The secret to success is doing the best that you can do. Forget about whether you might win or lose. By working hard and practicing the skills that you need to perform, the results will take care of themselves. Being successful is about doing your best."
—Barbara Ann Cochran

Barbara Cochran was a member of the US Ski Team for most of her life. She took the gold in 1978, and has dedicated her life to teaching and training athletes. This book is a compilation of "the first family of skiing" and Barbara's successful training and mindset techniques. A must read for any athlete, as well as a wonderful history for Olympic fans and ski lovers of all ages.

Genres: Sports, Nonfiction

214 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 31, 2023

Reviews

[Lance · Rating 2 out of 5]

Started okay, but once it turned into training and education of athletes I lost interest

[Suzanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this memoir of her skiing life Olympian Barbara Ann Cochran writes in a warm, conversational tone. One feels as if you are talking with her in front of a fire, enjoying a hot chocolate. Written in such a way in the first half of the book, there are anecdotal references which are often repeated. No worries. The sincerity and honesty in her writing is appealing.
The last half of the book has to do with the psychology of coaching and what can get in the way of an athlete underperforming, despite clear skill. These are universal recommendations which can apply to sports or to life itself.
Recommended especially for those who coach skiing…

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hike the Course by Barbara Ann Cochran offers a unique glimpse into the world of competitive skiing and the mental fortitude required to excel in sports. Cochran, an Olympic gold medalist, draws from her own experiences and those of her siblings, Marilyn and Bob, collectively known as "the First American Family of Skiing." The narrative details their early introduction to skiing under their father's guidance, emphasizing the rigorous training and mental preparation that propelled them to the pinnacle of their sport. Cochran's book delves into the techniques that helped her succeed, such as course rehearsal, physical training, and mindset strengthening. More than just a sports memoir, it provides valuable insights into mindfulness, visualization, goal setting, and habit formation. These elements are woven into an engaging narrative that extends beyond the realm of sports, offering universally applicable lessons on personal and professional growth.

For readers intrigued by the psychological aspects of competitive sports, Cochran's candid account of her struggles with pressure and self-doubt is particularly compelling. She shares an instance of overcoming mental hurdles during a crucial competition, using affirmations to regain focus. This anecdote, among others, illustrates the importance of mental resilience in high-stakes environments. The book is a testament to the Cochrans' dedication to skiing and serves as a practical guide, replete with worksheets and exercises designed to enhance mental strength. Its applicability extends beyond athletes, providing valuable insights for anyone aiming to excel in their respective fields. The lessons imparted are especially relevant for those striving to balance personal bests with external perceptions.

As a skiing enthusiast, I found Hike the Course both enlightening and inspiring. It bridges the gap between a sports biography and a motivational guide, making it a compelling read for anyone seeking to achieve excellence, whether in sports or other life pursuits. This book is highly recommended for individuals aspiring to realize their potential and for sports enthusiasts eager to understand the mental aspects of athletic achievement.

[Deacon Tom (Feeling Better) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book interesting in that it told to win a gold medal in the Olympics. However, there seem to be three parts of the book that seem to me a bit disjointed. First was the story of getting the Olympic gold – – terrific next, was how the family had build up a ski into successful bench. – – Good stuff! However, the final half of the book was how to coach all the techniques to prepare and work with the students. I found out a bit dry.

Overall really didn’t enjoy the book except the last section and I hope others get more out of it than I did. After all, I am 74 years old, and I think my days as a possible Olympian probably have passed me.

For people who are competitive athletes, I think they’ll very much enjoy this book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sarah Sliva · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book, especially because my children are ski racers who attend school and race with the author’s family (great-niece and great-nephews? Is that a thing?). We adore Cochran’s and all it has done for local children/families, as well as the sport of skiing and ski racing.
My favorite part of the book was the first half, which talked about Barbara Ann Cochran’s life and growing up in the ski racing world. My oldest child is very interested to check out the latter half of the book, which talks about having a mental/psychological competitive edge in competition. Thank you, Barbara Ann, for this book!

[L Fors · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story about the first family of skiing as well as a great example of taking life skills and pivoting to a secondary career! This book is for all ages - really enjoyable, well written, and timeless!

[Dana Eisinger · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a Goodreads Giveway and I really wanted to like it… sports, coaching, right up my alley. But I just couldn’t finish it. Author was pretty all over the place and I felt her writing style was pretty juvenile unfortunately