Nordic skiing, whether classic or skate skiing, is a fantastic outdoor activity for families. It’s an excellent way to enjoy winter, stay active, and bond with your loved ones. Here are some tips for taking your family nordic skiing:
Select the Right Location
Choose a Nordic skiing area or trail that is suitable for your family’s skill level. Look for well-groomed and maintained trails that offer a mix of easy and moderate routes. Many ski areas have dedicated beginner-friendly loops.
Rent or Purchase Equipment
If your family is new to nordic skiing, consider renting equipment initially. Once you’re sure you enjoy the sport, you can invest in your own gear. Make sure the equipment is properly sized and fitted for each family member.
Dress in Layers
Dress appropriately for the weather. Nordic skiing is a physically demanding activity, and you’ll warm up quickly. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulated clothing, and a windproof outer layer. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and warm socks.
Learn Proper Technique
If you and your family are new to nordic skiing, consider taking a lesson or watching instructional videos online. Proper technique is essential for an enjoyable and efficient skiing experience.
Safety First
Familiarize your family with trail etiquette and safety guidelines. Teach them how to fall safely and get up from a fall. Ensure that everyone has basic knowledge of navigation and how to use a map.
Start with Short Distances
Begin with shorter trips, especially if you have young children. As your family becomes more experienced, you can gradually increase the length and difficulty of your outings.
Hydration and Nutrition
Bring water and energy snacks to keep everyone fueled and hydrated during your ski trip. Staying well-nourished and hydrated is essential for energy and enjoyment.
Plan for Breaks
Plan for breaks during your ski outing. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate or tea and some snacks to enjoy together. Rest breaks can help everyone recharge and appreciate the surroundings.
Set Realistic Goals
Remember that nordic skiing is physically demanding, so set realistic goals based on your family’s abilities. Make it fun, and don’t push too hard.
Stay Together
Keep an eye on each other and stay together as a family. Make sure everyone is accounted for at all times, and consider using a “buddy system.”
Respect Nature
Teach your family to respect the environment. Stay on marked trails and avoid damaging the surrounding landscape. Encourage an appreciation for the natural world.
Enjoy the Scenery
Part of the joy of nordic skiing is the opportunity to be surrounded by the beauty of winter. Take time to appreciate the scenery and maybe even bring a camera to capture the memories.
Apres-Ski Activities
After your skiing adventure, explore other winter activities, like snowshoeing, building snowmen, or warming up by a firepit with hot cocoa. Make it a full day of family winter fun.
Nordic skiing is a wonderful way to introduce your family to the joys of winter sports. With the right preparation, patience, and a sense of adventure, your family can create lasting memories while enjoying the great outdoors.
Techniques That Kids Need to Learn to Be Better Cross Country or Nordic Skiers
Snowplow (Wedge) for Downhill
When skiing downhill, teach kids how to make a snowplow or wedge with their skis to control speed. This is an essential skill for managing downhill descents safely.
Turning Techniques
Introduce basic turning techniques, such as the step turn or stem turn, which involve shifting weight to one ski to change direction. Practice these on gentle slopes.
Diagonal Stride
This is the fundamental classic cross-country skiing technique. Teach kids how to push one ski forward while gliding on the other, creating a diagonal stride. Emphasize the coordination between arm and leg movements.
Glide and Balance
Help kids find their balance on skis and encourage a smooth glide. Focus on weight transfer between skis and maintaining a balanced stance.
Double Poling
Teach kids the double poling technique, where both poles are used simultaneously. Emphasize the importance of using the entire body to generate power and maintain balance.
Uphill Techniques
Teach kids how to tackle uphill sections using techniques like herringbone (walking up the hill with skis in a V shape) or diagonal stride with an increased emphasis on power generation.
Kick Double Poling (Skate Technique)
As kids progress, introduce the skate skiing technique, which involves a skating motion with the skis. Start with the kick double pole technique, where they kick off with one foot while double poling.
Pacing and Breathing
Teach kids how to pace themselves and control their breathing. Encourage a steady and rhythmic pace to conserve energy during longer skiing sessions.
Falling and Getting Up
Teach kids how to fall safely and get back up on their skis. This skill is important for building confidence and reducing fear of falling.
Trail Etiquette and Safety
Instill the importance of trail etiquette and safety rules, such as yielding to other skiers, staying on designated trails, and respecting the natural environment.
When teaching these techniques, it’s crucial to keep the sessions fun, positive, and age-appropriate. Break down the learning process into smaller, manageable steps, and provide plenty of encouragement and positive reinforcement. As kids gain proficiency, gradually introduce more advanced techniques and challenges to keep them engaged and excited about cross-country skiing.