Rickard Noberius, new national team doctor for this season, says that he has had regular contact with Frida Karlsson during summer and autumn - despite her choosing to leave the Swedish national ski team.
- We try to provide the same service to those who are outside the team, because we expect them to compete during the winter.
In order for us to be able to help them as much as possible during the winter, we wish we had as much knowledge and information about them as we can, I'm new to the team so I need to get to know the people who are with me, says Noberius.
"If the body is not in balance, then you will not be able to perform"
Frida Karlsson has continued to be supported by the medical team during the pre-season and she has chosen to undergo the national team's health checks.
In order for skaters to be allowed to compete for the Swedish national team, they need to be able to demonstrate good health.
Among other things, blood samples and bone density measurements are ensured, says Noberius.
- You must have good health, be in balance in the body.
If the body is not in balance, then you will not be able to perform at the level you want during the season.
And it is clear that it is the medical team's job to try to optimize them to have the best health possible in order to perform at their maximum.
But also health for the future, of course.
I think the two things go hand in hand.
How widespread is the problem in cross-country skiing, finding the right balance and not stepping over the line?
- I think that it is probably a problem that you have to deal with in all sports, not just skiing.
Above all in all endurance sports, but also pure power sports.
Sprint sports probably have the same problem.
It's a concern, a difficulty and an art - and it takes quite a lot of knowledge to actively know how much energy you actually need to get in, and that you're getting the right amount of energy.
The doctor pays tribute to Johaug: "Very strong of her"
Frida Karlsson is far from the only elite athlete who has had to struggle with finding the right balance and not stepping over the line.
In her newly published autobiography, Therese Johaug talks about the challenges she faced during her career.
- I think it's very strong of her to come out with it.
And I think it's fantastic that she has done it, because this is a problem that exists in all sports.
It removes the taboo a little bit around this topic.
Should we talk more about it?
- Yes, I think so.
And I think it's underway.
It feels like it has let go, I think we have come a long way during the summer and autumn.