Meteorologists say a very strong El Niño is brewing and forecast to continue through fall and winter. In fact, it is on track to become one of the strongest El Niños on record! In anticipation of heavy snow in Northern Arizona, this may be an excellent winter to enjoy cross-country skiing (also known as classic skiing) and skate skiing.
At the Northern Arizona Nordic Center and Backcountry Adventures, previously known as the Flagstaff Nordic Center, you can pick one or try both on 25 miles of groomed trails.
Cross-Country vs. Skate Skiing
Cross-country skiing is what most people learn first. The alternating motion of the legs and arms in a diagonal stride is a little like running or walking with a glide. But, you are spending more time on one foot.
Skate skiing is like ice skating. The skis are shorter than cross-country skis and the forward motion is caused by pushing from side to side.
Getting in Shape
Both activities require upper and lower body fitness and coordination, strength and endurance. The stronger your muscles and cardiovascular system, the longer you can ski and the more fun you will have.
To get your body in shape for cross-country skiing, easy, light running is recommended. You are not trying to go fast. Instead, concentrate and exaggerate moving from foot to foot.
To practice for skate skiing, bend your knees and lean sideways. Then see how far you can jump from side to side. This activity will build up leg muscles and your aerobic capacity.
Also, it is helpful to watch some videos so your body has an idea of what you want it to do.
What About Gear?
The most important part of cross-country or skate skiing is having gear that fits. It is recommended that you rent skis, boots and poles instead of buying them right away. Also, you’ll want to be fitted by a professional. Renting at the Nordic Center is easy because the staff knows the gear, knows the sport and if there’s a problem or if you want to switch gear, they are right there.
What Do I Wear?
Downhill skiers spend a lot of time sitting on chairlifts. They usually need heavy jackets to keep them warm. But in both cross-country and skate skiing, you’re expending a lot of energy, so you’re going to get warm. Thin layers that won’t hinder your movement are recommended. Also, sunglasses, sunscreen and water are very important at high elevations.
What About Lessons?
If you wouldn’t drive a car or jump into a tennis match without some instruction, you wouldn’t want to try a new winter sport without lessons either. You’re not going to kill anybody if you don’t take lessons, but you’re probably not going to learn to ski without them either. The ideal plan is a 90-minute lesson in the morning, a lunch break, and then practicing what you learned in the afternoon.
There are many benefits to classic and skate skiing. Those who stick with it talk about how good it feels. It’s quiet, calm, you can chat with friends, and the glide makes it seem like you’re not working really hard. It’s also a lot more fun to stay in shape while enjoying the outdoors and the beauty of the forest rather than on your treadmill or exercise bike indoors! QCBN
Ken Walters is the lead ski instructor at the Northern Arizona Nordic Center and Backcountry Adventures. The Nordic Center is located on Highway 180, 15 miles north of Flagstaff. For more information, visit the website at www.flagstaffnordiccenter.com or call 928-220-0550.
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