If you’ve seen Nordic spas featured in magazines, scrolled past pictures popping up across social media, or heard people talk about them, you’re not alone. Their popularity has surged in recent years as more people look for simple, restorative ways to recharge. So, what is a Nordic spa? It’s understandable to have questions. Nordic spas can sound a little mysterious. They’re often associated with Scandinavian culture, which can make them seem complicated or foreign. In reality, they’re simple, welcoming, and accessible. Nordic spas use cycles of hot, cold, and rest to refresh and rejuvenate your body. Once you understand how Nordic spa sessions work, you’ll see why so many people make them a key part of their wellness routine. This guide will walk you through where the tradition comes from and how the Nordic spa hot-cold-rest sessions work. It’ll also explain where you can experience a Nordic spa right here in Anchorage.

Nick Taran is an ultramarathon runner, a five-time ultramarathon record holder, and an international pacemaker. Getting ready for an ultramarathon takes much more than preparing for a marathon. Once the distance reaches 42 km (26.2 miles) or more, the training becomes much more demanding. It is not only about running. You spend many more hours on your feet, but you also need strength training, good sleep, and proper nutrition. All of these things help you successfully complete a long-distance race.

Klaire Rhodes is once again the 2025 Mount Marathon women's champion. An expert trail runner, she shares her tips on improving your downhill form: Downhill with Confidence: Tips for Stronger Descents on Alaskan Trails Trail running isn’t just about mastering the uphill—it’s about learning to move down trails with just as much power and precision. Downhill running is where fitness meets finesse. And while it's easy to focus all your training on climbing, the real gains—and risks—often live on the way back down.