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Cross Country Skiing: XS Skiing, Nordic Skiing, Winter Olympics And Skiing Equipment
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Published: June 8, 2007
At the Winter Olympics, it's exciting to see ski jumpers fly through the air for what seems like an amazing length of time. However, another, perhaps lesser-known, sport deserves some attention as well. Cross country skiing (also called XC skiing) is a major Nordic skiing sport in Northern Europe, Canada, and the U.S.
and is gaining popularity throughout the world.
One reason people are attracted to cross country skiing is its universality. All ages, from toddlers to seniors, can enjoy the scenery and exercise. The natural motion allows people to learn cross country skiing quickly. The key is the skier's free heel. Only the toe is bound to the ski. This allows for climbing and other ranges of motion. Also, many paths are flat or only slightly sloped (up, not just down), so beginners need not panic about racing downhill uncontrollably. Although relatively simple, cross country skiing is actually one of the best workouts. The sport works every major muscle group and burns a lot of calories.
For competitive snow bunnies, performance cross country skiing is an exciting option. Cross country skiing is a Nordic skiing sport (a category that includes ski jumping). Athletes can compete in the FIS Nordic World Ski Championship, FIS World Cup Canada Ski Marathon or the Winter Olympics, just to name a few. In fact, about 1/3 of the medals given out at the Winter Olympics go toward XC skiing and other Nordic sports.
Like any sport, it is important to have the correct gear before participating. Skiing equipment includes a few pieces that can often be rented. The key to cross country skiing is the long, thin skis. They are specially designed to distribute the skier's weight, so they glide smoothly. Also, 2 spiked, armpit-height poles are essential pieces of cross country skiing equipment. They are usually made out of durable, but lightweight fiberglass, aluminum, graphite or carbon fiber. The skier's boot toe (not heel) is attached to the ski using bindings. Sometimes, special waxes are used on the skis to increase the speed or to grip the snow, depending on the skis' needs.
Skiers should dress appropriately in several light layers to avoid trapping sweat and boy heat. Light layers also allow for easier movement than heavy, bulky clothing. Because snow and ice is so reflective, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. Also, it is suggested that skiers wear hats and gloves. A hat helps prevent body heat from escaping through the head.
Cross country skiing is an excellent and versatile sport and activity for people of all ages. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the winter weather, view beautiful scenery and stay in shape. People will continue to gain interest in cross country skiing as they watch competitions and see or hear the excitement surrounding cross country ski centers.
Sources:
“Cross-country Skiing.” Wikipedia. 4 June 2007. 7 June 2007. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cross-country_skiing< br />A Lifetime of Winter Fun. XCSkiWorld.com. 7 June 2007. http://www.xcskiworld.com/beginners.htm
Wiesel, Jonathan. “Getting Started.” Cross Country Ski Areas Association. 2003. 7 June 2007. http://www.xcski.org/about_xc_skiing/about_getting _started.shtml
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One reason people are attracted to cross country skiing is its universality. All ages, from toddlers to seniors, can enjoy the scenery and exercise. The natural motion allows people to learn cross country skiing quickly. The key is the skier's free heel. Only the toe is bound to the ski. This allows for climbing and other ranges of motion. Also, many paths are flat or only slightly sloped (up, not just down), so beginners need not panic about racing downhill uncontrollably. Although relatively simple, cross country skiing is actually one of the best workouts. The sport works every major muscle group and burns a lot of calories.
For competitive snow bunnies, performance cross country skiing is an exciting option. Cross country skiing is a Nordic skiing sport (a category that includes ski jumping). Athletes can compete in the FIS Nordic World Ski Championship, FIS World Cup Canada Ski Marathon or the Winter Olympics, just to name a few. In fact, about 1/3 of the medals given out at the Winter Olympics go toward XC skiing and other Nordic sports.
Like any sport, it is important to have the correct gear before participating. Skiing equipment includes a few pieces that can often be rented. The key to cross country skiing is the long, thin skis. They are specially designed to distribute the skier's weight, so they glide smoothly. Also, 2 spiked, armpit-height poles are essential pieces of cross country skiing equipment. They are usually made out of durable, but lightweight fiberglass, aluminum, graphite or carbon fiber. The skier's boot toe (not heel) is attached to the ski using bindings. Sometimes, special waxes are used on the skis to increase the speed or to grip the snow, depending on the skis' needs.
Skiers should dress appropriately in several light layers to avoid trapping sweat and boy heat. Light layers also allow for easier movement than heavy, bulky clothing. Because snow and ice is so reflective, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended. Also, it is suggested that skiers wear hats and gloves. A hat helps prevent body heat from escaping through the head.
Cross country skiing is an excellent and versatile sport and activity for people of all ages. It is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the winter weather, view beautiful scenery and stay in shape. People will continue to gain interest in cross country skiing as they watch competitions and see or hear the excitement surrounding cross country ski centers.
Sources:
“Cross-country Skiing.” Wikipedia. 4 June 2007. 7 June 2007. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cross-country_skiing< br />A Lifetime of Winter Fun. XCSkiWorld.com. 7 June 2007. http://www.xcskiworld.com/beginners.htm
Wiesel, Jonathan. “Getting Started.” Cross Country Ski Areas Association. 2003. 7 June 2007. http://www.xcski.org/about_xc_skiing/about_getting _started.shtml
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