Cross-country skiing, which is also known as Nordic or XC skiing, is one of the easiest and most popular types of skiing today. This winter sport or recreational hobby is common in countries with huge snowfields, such as Canada, Northern Europe and the United States.
There are many Nordic skiing techniques, but the most basic are the classic, telemark and skating. If you are new to the sport, I suggest you learn and try all these styles first, before you can determine which of the three is suited for you.
Classic Technique
Classic cross-country skiing is ideal for those who are just starting to learn how to ski. This technique requires long, lightweight and slim skis that are equipped with cambers. A camber is an upward curve found at the end of a snow ski. However, some skiers utilize broader skis when skiing on pistes, or prepared trails.
This classic Nordic style, which is ideal for terrains that are level or flat, can be enjoyed by almost everybody because the only thing you have to know is to glide and make a diagonal slide. You will find this technique easy to learn if you have a background in ice skating, in-line skating, or hockey.
The basic moves of classic country skiing are: diagonal slide, which involves a blown up running stroke followed by a glide in both sides; herringbone, which entails a running or walking action on wide skis; double pole, which utilizes both poles for a sudden forward action; and double pole with a kick, which is the same as double pole but is followed by one leg kick.
Telemark Technique
Cross-country skiers that don't use piste usually use the telemark style. This technique, also known as free heel skiing, is ideal for going down steep slopes. The skis often used for telemarking are wider than those used for cross-country skiing.
Skating Technique
This style of skiing is easy for people that have strong background in either ice-skating or roller blades. Most ski instructors ask beginners to learn classic skiing first before trying out skating, or commonly known as free skiing. This type of cross-country skiing requires mastery of edging and balance. Once you have acquired the two skills, you can now focus on glide and power. Once you have learned free skating, you will realize that this is very similar to conventional skating.
Once you have tried out the three basic styles of XC skiing, I am sure you will know what technique is ideal for you. However, if you just want to have fun and enjoy this sport, I suggest you start with classic cross-country skiing first.
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