Laax, Switzerland – A new training ground is shaping the next generation of freestyle athletes. The Freestyle Academy in Laax isn’t just a place to practice; it’s a comprehensive facility designed to nurture skills in skateboarding, snowboarding, and skiing, offering a unique blend of trampolines, skateparks, and specialized training areas. The academy has quickly develop into a hub for aspiring professionals and seasoned competitors alike, providing year-round access to cutting-edge facilities and expert coaching.
Opened officially a year and a half ago, the Freestyle Academy represents an evolution from a temporary setup in a circus tent in nearby Flims, which had served the community for years. This dedicated 2,000-square-meter facility offers a structured environment for athletes to hone their techniques, focusing heavily on the foundational skills needed to excel in freestyle sports. The emphasis on year-round training, even during the off-season, is a key differentiator for Laax as a premier destination for freestyle athletes.
A Playground for Progression: Facilities and Training
The Freestyle Academy caters to a wide range of skill levels, from beginners taking their first steps on a skateboard to elite athletes preparing for major competitions. The facility boasts a dedicated skateboard area featuring a minirampe, skatebowl, street courses, and a “flat” zone. Perhaps the most striking feature is the expansive half-pipe, which even received the approval of skateboarding legend Tony Hawk. For winter sports enthusiasts, the academy provides extensive trampoline and parkour zones, including an airbag, a jump tower, and a trampoline equipped with a 360° video analysis system.
Beyond the physical facilities, the academy offers a variety of training programs. Individual lessons provide personalized coaching, while group sessions foster a collaborative learning environment. Specialized programs cater to competitive athletes, offering focused training designed to enhance performance and prepare them for the demands of high-level competition. The academy also offers functional gym access, providing flexible workouts for all levels.
The Importance of Air Awareness
Experts emphasize the crucial role of air awareness in freestyle sports. Paddy Graham, a British specialist, highlights the importance of developing body control in the air, noting that activities like trampolining can be foundational. “When I was a child, my mother sent me to extra-curricular activities at the local leisure center, including trampoline, which taught me to control my body,” Graham explained. “I would ski once a week and the rest of the time, I would reproduce figures that I had seen on television on the trampoline.” He succinctly summarized the benefit: “For freestyle skiing, the best training outside of the slopes is to move on a trampoline, bounce, and get used to being in the air, grabbing your feet and placing your body in different positions.”
This emphasis on off-slope training is a key reason why champions like Andri Ragettli regularly utilize the academy, particularly during the summer months. Chloe Kim, a superstar in snowboarding, also frequently uses Laax as a base during the off-season and throughout the competition year. The station’s conditions are superb, but the academy provides a consistent training environment regardless of external factors.
Beyond Training: A Community Hub
The Freestyle Academy isn’t solely focused on elite athletes. It’s also a popular destination for recreational enthusiasts, including birthday parties and casual visits. A recent visit saw a group of 10-year-olds enjoying the facilities, with the trampolines proving particularly popular. The academy fosters a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging individuals of all ages and skill levels to experience the thrill of freestyle sports.
The academy also hosts events, such as the Swiss Skateboard Open held on December 6, 2025, further solidifying its position as a central hub for the freestyle community. The Freestyle Academy is bookable via the LAAX Ticketshop, the LAAX App, or directly at the academy counter.
As the Freestyle Academy continues to evolve, it’s poised to play an increasingly significant role in shaping the future of freestyle sports. With its commitment to providing world-class facilities, expert coaching, and a supportive community, Laax is solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for athletes and enthusiasts alike. What comes next will be the continued development of training methodologies and the emergence of new talent nurtured within these walls.
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