How hard is cross-country skiing?
Without a doubt, one of the best ways to have fun outside in winter is cross-country skiing. But how hard is it? In this article we’ll explain why cross-country skiing is so easy to learn including dialing in the techniques, equipment, instruction and terrain.
Two types of cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing (also called Nordic skiing) is one of the easiest ways to get outside in winter and have some fun. For those interested in the physical aspect, it’s widely known as one of the best ways to get a full-body workout. To get started, it helps to know that there are two types (or styles) of cross-country skiing: classic cross-country and skate skiing.
Classic cross-country skiing
Classic cross-country skiing can be as simple as walking on snow; just put one foot in front of the other and off you go! There are no special skills required other than being able to stand up and walk – it’s literally that easy. Start on a track that’s flat and go slooooooowly in the beginning until you get a feel for the push and glide feeling. Like any other sport, there’s a proper technique that can greatly increase your efficiency and it will make things a whole lot easier if you take a lesson or two early on. If there’s no opportunity to find instruction in your area, you’ll find plenty of videos on YouTube to help you get started.
Women’s classic cross-country skis
Men’s classic cross-country skis
Skate skiing
Skate skiing is slightly more technical in the beginning than classic, but many people start with this technique because of the awesome glide feeling and excellent workout. Also, those who already enjoy ice skating or inline skating, may also want to start with skate skiing because you’ll already have a feel for the movement. However, even if you don’t have previous experience the basic technique is super easy to learn and progression is quick, especially if you have the opportunity to take some lessons. Learn more about the differences between classic and skate skiing.
No need for a ski lift, you don’t even need a mountain!
One of the biggest reasons Nordic skiing is so popular is that you can do it pretty much anywhere there’s snow on the ground. There’s no need for a ski lift, or even a mountain, and in many urban areas you can have loads of fun skiing in city parks. For instance, following a big snowfall in New York City, you can head over to one of the large meadows in Central Park to join other city-bound skiers.
Equipment
Certainly, one of the biggest advantages of cross-country skiing is that the equipment is comfortable, lightweight and easy to transport. Cross-country ski boots (especially those designed for beginners) are warm and comfortable, the skis are lightweight and easy to carry, and the bindings couldn’t be easier to get in and out of.
If you’re wondering what to wear, when the sun is shining you can easily sport the same clothes you’d wear for a walk or run in the park (don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen!). As your confidence and skills improve and you begin to pick up the pace, your body will generate more heat at which point overheating can become a problem, even when it’s cold! So be sure to dress using the easily-adaptable 3-layer system along with headwear and gloves that aren’t too heavy. It’s at this point that clothing designed specifically for Nordic skiing can make a huge difference in your comfort level.
Physical fitness
You don’t have to be super fit to enjoy cross-country skiing, all you need is a desire to go outside and have fun. One of the best things about cross-country skiing is that there are really no limits to how little you do or how slow you go. Want to go outside for a mellow 10-minute stroll in the snow? Nordic skiing is perfect for that!
On the other hand, cross-country skiing is widely recognized as one of the best full-body workouts there is, and it’s so fun that it can quickly become the most enjoyable element of your winter workouts. It’s easy for any level of athlete to get addicted and it won’t be long before you find yourself organizing your winter training around upcoming races!
Check out all the gear info and How To’s on our cross-country skiing community page.
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