Techniques

There are three main techniques used in XC skiing. Specially adapted equipment is available to suit each.

The Classical technique was the first technique developed, and although not the fastest (in the same way as the breaststroke swimming technique) it is still used today, especially by beginners, as it tends to be simple and easy to learn. However, it can take many years to really master.

The skating (or free) technique, developed as a result of racing and is harder to learn but once mastered the skiers can travel much faster. The skating style can also be mastered faster than classical.

Telemarking is a technique used to go down hill on cross country skis. Usually the skiers will use the classical technique for going up the hill and telemarking to ski down steep hills.

1. Classical

To move when on level ground or uphill whilst using the classical style, cross-country skiers slide one ski forward and reach with the arm on the other side to implant the pole in the snow in front of them, then pull on the pole to accelerate themselves along. They then lift the pole out of the snow and repeat the process with the other side of the body, hopefully maintaining momentum and achieving a smooth, energy-saving rhythm.

When reaching a downhill slope, they are able to coast down in a similar manner to downhill skiing, or may use Telemark technique.

The classical style is often performed on prepared trails (pistes) that have pairs of parallel grooves cut into the snow, one for each ski, and consequently a special long, narrow and light ski is usually used. The skis used either have a fish-scale underside, or ski wax is applied to the central section in the centre of the ski, so that when the skier kicks the ski into the snow it grips, allowing the skier to move forward.

When skiing away from prepared trails, a much wider ski is usually used.

2. Skating or Free

Skating, or Free technique (note: NOT freestyle; this is a ski sport where competitors perform aerial gymnastics after launching from a short ramp in the snow), involves the skier pushing one ski outward with the ski angled, so that the inner edge of the ski is driven against the snow, much like an ice skater. It is also important to balance on one ski to be efficient. Skis tend to be shorter than those used in classical technique, and poles longer. There is also no fish scale or sticky wax applied and no kick area.

There are various combinations of ski and pole movements to suit the terrain and conditions. The technique is only suitable for use on prepared trails (pistes) or those with firm, smooth snow.

The distinction between Classic technique and Free technique is made in competition, that is, a race will be designated as Classic or Free. In the case of the former only those propulsion techniques that are considered 'classic' are allowed, whereas in the latter the competitors are free to use any technique although the majority of competitors will opt to skate since it is marginally faster than the traditional classic technique. This is a direct parallel to the world of competitive swimming where in a freestyle race competitors can use any technique but will normally use the Australian crawl stroke.

Recent developments in the sport include 'Continuous (or Double) Pursuit' races where the competitors complete the first part of the event using the classic technique and the second part using the free technique.

3. Telemark

The Telemark technique is particularly suited to backcountry skiing (off piste cross-country skiing). While first and foremost it is a technique for descending, for those with dedicated equipment it is effectively a separate branch of skiing that takes place in the backcountry (off piste). See our section on telemarking for more information.