Cross-Country Ski Tips

Cross-country skiing is a sport that offers many people the opportunity to exercise in an invigorating way, view nature and scenic mountains, and interact with friends and family. Before departing on a cross-country ski journey, have available the appropriate clothing layers, load up on all needed gear, and learn the basic cross-country skiing techniques.

  1. Appropriate Clothing

    • Choose appropriate ski clothing to ensure a good time.

      Cross-country skiing requires the body to work hard, and while you will be gliding across snow and ice, your body may heat up. Wear layers so that you can add and take off clothes according to your body's temperature. Clothing that is not too tight will keep you insulated and provide the most flexibility and movement. Underneath your waterproof ski pants and jacket, wear a polypropylene or polyester top and bottom to stay dry. Wear long socks to keep the snow out of your boots. The sun reflects sharply against snow and ice, so sunglasses are essential, preferably sports glasses that cover a larger area of your face and wrap around your head. Likewise, waterproof ski gloves, a ski hat and sunscreen are musts.

    Gear

    • Ski poles are helpful when cross-country skiing.

      Cross-country skis, which are narrower and lighter than downhill skis, are made to glide easily over the snow. If you are a recreational skier as opposed to a professional, waxless skis, which you do not have to wax, require less maintenance and are easier to care for. Avid skiers choose wax skis for faster and better performance. A backpack filled with extra clothing, water, snacks, sun screen and a first aid kit is beneficial for short and long trips. Bring two cross-country ski poles as well; however, beginners need not use poles until they are comfortable on skis.

    Techniques

    • Beginners should start with the classic cross-country skiing technique.

      For beginners, groomed, packed trails offer an easier glide and less work. Only after you've mastered the cross-country skiing basics should you try off-trail skiing. According to Gorp, an outdoor recreation website, the basic diagonal stride used in classic cross-country skiing is so named because of the motion of the arms and legs. The right arm swings back as the left leg moves forward, and vice versa, in a steady rhythm. Active.com suggests short, quick, active gliding on the skis for best results and to keep the skis from slipping backward when you push off the ground. Cross-country skiing demands a great deal of energy from the legs, as well as the arms and torso. To get in shape and gain endurance for cross-country skiing, exercises such as squats and leg presses and workouts that include treadmill running and the gym elliptical will help prepare your body.