Cross country skiing is an inexpensive and
easy to learn alternative to downhill skiing that provides an excellent low impact cardiovascular
workout that tones all the muscles of the
body. It is increasingly popular with baby
boomers who are concerned about the risk
of injury associated with downhill skiing
and with those who never learned to downhill
ski but want to experience the pleasures
of winter outdoor exercise.
If you are thinking of learning to cross
country ski, consider the following:
- Cross country skiing requires only a few
pieces of moderately priced equipment. You
will need a special pair of soft ski boots
that attach at the toes to lightweight skis.
The heel is left free to move up and down.
These skis come in different lengths and
widths. Longer and thinner skis will go faster
than shorter and wider ones but will be harder
to maneuver over bumping ground. A pair of
poles will help you push yourself through
the snow.
- There are two basic styles of cross country
skiing, classic and skating.
Classic is easier
to learn because it simply
requires putting
one foot in front of the other
in a gliding
motion. Skating involves a
skating motion
and requires special short
skis and long
poles.
- Cross country skiing does not involve purchasing
an expensive lift ticket. Many
golf courses,
state parks and bike trails
allow cross country
skiing at no charge, as long
as there is
enough snow to prevent damage
to the ground
surface.
It is best to dress in removable layers when
cross country skiing. Although you will be
out in the cold, the aerobic exercise will
keep you quite warm.
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