Getting Started

Cross-Country Skiing

Editor’s Note: It takes a great deal of courage to try a new sport. We hope this new monthly “Getting Started” column will shorten the learning curve…Please submit your comments to Info@AdkSportsFitness.com.

by Laura Clark

To glide or to skate: The first decision is whether to glide (Nordic or classic style) or to skate. Andy Keefe of Saratoga Springs, a retired Lapland Lake instructor, suggests that beginners take a lesson in both before purchasing equipment. While Andy can teach Nordic basics in an hour, the fundamentals of skate skiing take longer to learn. He recommends that individuals who are out-of-shape should master classic techniques first since skating requires greater stamina and leg strength.

What if I am already a downhill skier: Heidi Underwood, a frequent cross-country ski competitor from Kattskill Bay, hedges her bets. She emphasizes that while an alpine skier will obviously feel comfortable going downhill fast, the two skills are very different. According to Heidi, the downhill skier who is used to having his heels locked in position finds that there is less stability with cross-country skiing.

Equipment: Jack Hay, of Alpine Sport Shop in Saratoga Springs, urges beginners to buy equipment they feel comfortable with and then upgrade as their skills increase. Many ski shops rent a variety of brands to allow newcomers to experiment. While Jack recommends no-wax Karhu skis, Andy would add Rossignol to the list.

What to Wear: Think wicking. While you will get hotter than you would expect, when you fly downhill, you will become seriously chilled unless your clothing can wick away perspiration. Being sweaty in the summer is uncomfortable; in winter it can be downright dangerous. When asked what brands he prefers, Andy mentioned Bill Koch SP3 wear and Sporthill.

Competition: According to Andy, “If you are going to race, you have to skate.” A skilled skater will win out every time over an equally skilled glider. Heidi points out, though, “At college-level a lot of training is done on classic skis because it is thought to be better for overall conditioning.” She mentions that races like the Lake Placid Loppet (February 7, 2004) have separate divisions for both techniques, but for Empire State Games (February 20-22, 2004) you must qualify in both.

Taking the Family Along: Sean Halligan of Gansevoort, coach of the Saratoga Bill Koch Youth Ski League for ages 13 and under, started his children skiing between one and two years of age. He recommends waxless touring equipment since “most young skiers are just going to shuffle along and learn to get their balance.” He urges athletic parents to remember “Small children…should probably dress warmer…since they may spend more time in the snow than on it!” The most important thing is to make sure that children have fun and quit before they get worn out.

The Bottom Line: “Consider where you want to go,” recommends Andy. If you like to explore the woods behind your house, classic or backcountry is the way to go. If all your skiing will be done on groomed trails, then skate. If you like variety, Nordic skis are more adaptable to varied conditions.

For more information:
www.crosscountryskinewyork.com
www.xcski.org
www.skipost.com
www.xcskiworld.com
www.nyssranordic.com

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