11/11/2024

How to get startet on cross-country-skiing:

Easy tips to follow

Ihr seht zwei Personen beim Langlaufen in der Ramsau.

Endurance and effort

Cross-country skiing is considered an endurance sport. On average, this winter sport is less demanding on the cardiovascular system than running but slightly more challenging than cycling.

Therefore, cross-country skiing is the ideal sport for those who have discovered endurance training and want to build their aerobic fitness during the winter. What’s more, cross-country skiing is anything but monotonous: flat tracks, varied loops, scenic panoramic trails, or challenging routes provide diversity and excitement. Additionally, cross-country skiing is one of the more stress-free winter sports. The equipment is light and easy to transport, the trails are often just a few steps from the hotel door, and nature is typically untouched. Here, it’s all about the joy of skiing, not the obligation to do it.

Ihr seht zwei Langläufer die in Savognin auf beschneiter Strecke Langlaufen

Ski binding

The central component of Nordic equipment is undoubtedly the cross-country ski binding. It plays a crucial role in transferring dynamics and power from the boot through the ski to the snow.

Innovative technologies and modern materials are incorporated into the development of new bindings that are specifically tailored to the needs of athletes of all ages and skill levels. Special emphasis is placed on ensuring that cross-country ski bindings are easy to use and offer intuitive handling.

Ihr seht die wunderschöne Winterlandschaft beim Langlaufen rund um das JUFA Hotel Eisenerz. Der Ort für erholsamen Winter- und Wanderurlaub.

Clothing

For cross-country skiing, the proven “onion principle” is ideal for adapting to any weather conditions. The first layer usually consists of breathable sports underwear that wicks moisture away. This is followed by a functional long-sleeve shirt, lightweight sports pants, and a windproof jacket with moisture protection. If you feel cold, an additional vest or light down jacket can be worn.

To complete the trail outfit, snug, grippy gloves, a hat or headband, sports glasses with UV protection, and sunscreen with a high SPF are the essential extras.

The Renaissance of Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing has become one of the most popular winter sports. The Nordic version of skiing appeals not only to younger people and the young at heart but also to an increasing number of older individuals who are discovering the benefits of this endurance sport. And for good reason: cross-country skiing trains numerous muscle groups, is gentle on the joints, and is healthy for the cardiovascular system. Additionally, it promotes muscular endurance and strengthens coordination and balance. Moreover, the sport helps you relax, as most trails are located in beautiful areas.

Cross-country ski tracks

The cross-country ski trail should neither be too long nor too challenging for beginners. Once you feel confident on skis, you can tackle more demanding routes with small downhill sections. A decent network of ski tracks has become a standard part of winter sports offerings, with marked areas for Nordic athletes available in nearly all Alpine regions.

Care

No wax, no fun – this is especially true for cross-country skiing. Space, ski grip, wax, and an iron. Is that all? Not quite. To wax your cross-country skis, you also need a brush and a scraper, just like the ones you use for waxing your alpine and touring skis.

Behaviour:

To ensure you fully enjoy your cross-country skiing experience and avoid collisions, the FIS has issued a 10-point code of conduct that every cross-country skier must follow:

Consideration for Others
Pay attention to markings, signs, and the direction of travel.
On double and multiple tracks, always stay in the right lane. When skiing in a group, ski one behind the other.
Overtaking can be done on the right or left, with the person being overtaken moving aside if it’s safe to do so.
In case of oncoming traffic, both should move to the right.
Pay attention to your pole position. When overtaking or being overtaken, keep the poles close to your body.

Adjust your speed according to the trail conditions and your personal skill level
When descending, in poor visibility, or with heavy traffic, ski slowly and with caution, keeping a safe distance ahead
The ski track must be kept clear. If you stop or fall, clear the track immediately
In case of an accident, everyone is obligated to assist
Witnesses and those involved in accidents must provide their personal details

Poles

Just like in ski touring, poles play a crucial role in cross-country skiing. They help with balance and allow for efficient energy saving. The length of the poles depends on the technique used. In cross-country skiing, especially in skating, longer poles are advantageous as they make pushing off easier and support the swinging motion, an essential movement in cross-country skiing.

Langläufer beim Wintersport auf der Langlaufloipe in der Eisenerzer Ramsau in der Nähe von JUFA Hotels. Der Ort für erholsamen Familienurlaub und einen unvergesslichen Winterurlaub.

Ihr seht einen Langläufer beim Langlaufen im Skigebiet Kaiserau. JUFA Hotels bietet erholsamen Familienurlaub und einen unvergesslichen Winterurlaub.

Completely off track?

Short days, gray cities? That’s no reason to get stuck in the daily grind or fall into a winter slumber! So, get out of the hamster wheel of external goals and dive into a winter experience full of activity and movement. Whether it’s ski touring, snowshoe hiking, or cross-country skiing – soaking up the sun and staying active is possible even in winter.

Rauszeit Winter aktiv

Technique

Before learning cross-country skiing, the question always arises: Which technique should you use, and which one is easier? Regardless of your athletic experience, it’s recommended to first learn the classic technique to familiarize yourself with the track and equipment. However, a warm-up phase beforehand is essential, even in cross-country skiing!