Don’t let mother nature keep you indoors this winter. Cross country skiing is an excellent full body workout, utilizing the winter weather that keeps many runners and cyclists indoors. Skiing is a low-impact cardio workout involving multiple muscle groups, as well as improving balance.
Unlike downhill skiing where gravity can cause you to become out of control and cause severe injury, cross country skiing takes place on mostly flat or rolling terrain. You can also XC ski on city streets in a snowstorm if you are not near open terrain.
For beginner cross county skiers, it's advantageous to start at an established XC center to get the right equipment for you and instruction on the differences between the classic and skating techniques. The classic technique involves a sliding motion with your legs, utilizing the grooves on the underside of the ski for traction. The skating technique is similar to ice skating by taking diagonal steps and pushing forward off the inside edge of the ski.
Don't forget, proper warm-up and stretching is key, especially in the colder weather. Proper clothing is vital -- your clothing should be warm, yet breathable, to allow for heat exchange. Most importantly, enjoy the outdoors, whether it be a 45-minute sprint workout or a day long tour. Cross country skiing is a excellent way to exercise outside during the winter months.
