How to Skate on Cross Country Skis

Skate skiing is great exercise and a fun way to get outside in the winter. You'll be surprised by how fast you can go when you hit your rhythm, and by how sore you'll be the next day!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Cross-Country Skis appropriate for skate skiing Cross-Country Ski Boots Cross-Country Poles Appropriate Clothing Cross-Country Center
Cross-Country Skis appropriate for skate skiing
Cross-Country Ski Boots
Cross-Country Poles
Appropriate Clothing
Cross-Country Center

Step 1

Find a Nordic Center with groomed trails. You need a wide, flat trail to get started.

Step 2

Strap into your gear and turn your skis out into a V.

Step 3

Leave your poles on the ground at first and concentrate on what to do with your feet.

Step 4

Turn your left ski onto its inside edge and gently push off the snow. Lift your left foot off the ground, and glide forward at a diagonal angle on your right foot. Come to a stop, and repeat the process on the other side.

Step 5

Practice continuous motion by placing your left foot near the instep of the right foot while you are gliding. This will require you to lift your left foot and ski over your right foot and ski. Make sure your skis don't get crossed in the back. Transfer your weight, and repeat the process on the other side.

Step 6

Grab your poles and increase your power by pushing with your poles at the same time you push with your back foot.

Tips & Warnings

Start slow. Skate skis have no grip on the bottom, so they are more slippery than traditional cross-country skis.

Article Written By Caroline Schley

Based in New York City, Caroline Schley has been writing articles on fitness, social interaction and politics since 2008. Her articles have appeared in "The Tahoe Weekly," "Second Line News" and websites, including Eatthestate.org. Schley graduated from CU Boulder in 2005 with a degree in environmental science.

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