7 Reasons You Should Try Cross-Country Skiing
When you hear the phrase “cross-country skiing,” you might only think about the sport conducted at the Winter Olympics. Cross-country skiing is not just for Olympic athletes. It’s for everyone!
If you’re thinking about trying something new on your next winter trip, continue reading to learn the seven reasons why you should try cross-country skiing.
More Beneficial Than Downhill Skiing
You might wonder about the differences between downhill skiing versus cross-country skiing. If you aren’t familiar with either term, here’s a quick explanation!
Cross-country skiing is an outdoor winter activity where you use skis and poles to traverse either a hilly or smooth terrain. Downhill skiing is the act of skiing down a mountain or hill at high speeds. The technical difference between these two forms of skiing is how your boots connect to the skis. In cross-country skiing, only your toe attaches to the ski. In downhill skiing, the entire boot connects to the ski.
Cross-country skiing is a more leisurely activity, but skiers can increase their speeds and movements as desired to get a better workout. The type of slope you choose will determine your downhill skiing experience.
You Don’t Need To Be an Expert To Try It
You don’t need to be a fitness master to try cross-country skiing. This activity is versatile; people of all ages can try it!
There are different levels to cross-country skiing: traditional skiing and full-body workout skiing. The great news is you can work your way up to a full-body workout, or you can continue skiing at a leisurely pace. Cross-country skiing gives you the freedom to move and admire the landscape around you as you ride.
Whether you’re just beginning or you’re a true expert at the sport, it’s an enjoyable winter activity that you get to decide how to approach.
Choosing Your Speed
Downhill skiing requires you to take lessons before getting out on the slopes because there is a lot to learn. Because you move quickly down hilly terrain, for some individuals, this is the perfect thrill adventure! But for others, it’s too much too fast.
Cross-country skiing allows you to move at your own speed. If you’re looking for a great workout, maybe you’d like to try skiing at a quicker pace. Or you can choose to move at a slower pace and really take in the scenery.
It’s a relaxing activity and something new to try on your next trip. With the flat terrain, you can push yourself to move at whichever speed suits you.
Great Workout
If you’re searching for a new outdoor exercise activity, cross-country skiing is a fantastic option that will improve your cardiovascular fitness. By incorporating more of your muscle groups and increasing your heart’s ability to pump blood and oxygen, cross-country skiing can be more effective than the typical running exercise.
First, the core is activated by the need to maintain a strong center of gravity no matter the speed at which you’re skiing. Second, the leg muscles are used to propel you forward, slow you down, or help you come to a stop. Lastly, your biceps and triceps put in a lot of work, digging your ski poles into the snow to get you moving and staying the course.
All that said, this exercise will help you burn a lot of calories and improve your heart health.
Low-Risk Injury Sport
There are dangers when partaking in any activity. Cross-country skiing is naturally a low-risk injury sport. The chances of falling and crashing are much lower when compared to downhill skiing due to the high speeds and shorter reaction time.
With cross-country skiing, you can move freely at whichever speed you feel the safest. Before attempting to cross-country ski, it’s important to have a good understanding of your current physical condition and whether you have any preexisting medical issues that may flare up while skiing. If you frequently experience lower back pain, going cross-country skiing may cause the pain to worsen.
Overall, though, cross-country skiing is a low-risk injury sport at any speed you try. No matter what you decide, remember to start slow and be safe.
Low Costs for a Great Time
Cross-country skiing is a fun, low-cost activity! The typical costs associated with cross-country skiing are renting or buying ski gear, purchasing a trail pass, and buying warm, base layer clothing.
Renting Equipment
If this is your first time trying cross-country skiing, there is no need to spend all your money on an activity you aren’t sure you will like or not. Renting gear is a great option as it can save you money! By renting ski gear and not going all out on the highest quality gear, you can get exactly what you need to be safe and have fun! If you enjoy the sport, investing in some gear may be the next route for you to take. But for beginners, renting equipment is the way to go.
Trail Passes
Most trails will require the purchase of a trail pass to be granted access. When trying downhill skiing, you must first purchase a lift ticket, which can be a hefty expense. Cross-country skiing doesn’t require that! Instead, you’ll ski on flat land and won’t need to purchase one! All you will need to do is buy a trail pass from the management company of whichever property you choose to ski.
Lightweight Equipment and Clothing
You will need to purchase or rent some equipment when trying cross-country skiing. One positive about cross-country ski equipment is that it’s all lightweight!
Equipment
Some of the necessary items you’ll need include skis, poles, boots, helmets, and ski goggles. Your weight and skill level will determine the length of the skis. The boots are lighter and more flexible than other ski boots. The equipment is also very flexible and easy to maneuver as you ski.
Clothing
Don’t forget about bringing along your warm base layers, coats, and gloves. The clothes you wear won’t need to be as heavy as the clothing required for downhill skiing. Think about the layers you put on for going on a jog in the winter. The clothing for cross-country skiing is very similar. You’ll want to feel comfortable and remain flexible as you move. Putting on your favorite lightweight winter thermal wear will have you ready to ski in no time!
Cross-country skiing may be a sport you’ve never heard of until now or never considered trying. Now that you know more about the seven reasons you should try cross-country skiing, it’s time to start planning your next trip! Remember to be safe and take the necessary precautions before embarking on your next winter adventure.
