Perhaps the most important move you should learn when cross country skiing is the diagonal stride. With a little practice and maybe even a few falls, you can pick up this cross country essential.
Instructions
Stride Right When Cross Country Skiing
1. Start by ditching your poles. In your first attempts at diagonal striding, you should use your arms to counter-balance the movement of your legs.
2. Push off with one leg by bending your knee slightly and pushing down into the ski. Since the diagonal stride is really a "kick-and-glide" kind of movement, think of this first step as your kick. It will give you the momentum to follow through with the rest of the stride.
3. Let your other ski glide forward.
4. Repeat this series of movements several times before picking up your poles again. By allowing your body to find its own center of gravity without the aid of poles, you will have a much easier time mastering the coordination of your other equipment.
5. Pick up your poles once you feel comfortable with the "kick-and-glide" routine.
6. Reach forward with the pole opposite to the leg that you will be gliding with.
7. Plant the pole securely in the snow, with the tip of the pole pointing to the rear of your skis.
8. Repeat the movement with the opposite arm as you continue the diagonal stride. The poles will help propel you through the snow and the movement should feel natural--almost as if you are walking.
Rest When Cross Country Skiing
9. Take a break from diagonal striding by using the double pole technique. This method of skiing utilizes both of your poles and will give your legs a rest. By alternating this movement with the other more strenuous movements, you will be able to conserve your energy and ski longer.
10. Start at the top of small hill or downward slope.
11. Make sure both of your feet are directly under you and that your arms are at your sides.
12. Plant your poles in front of you by raising your forearms parallel to the ground. The poles should be slightly angled toward the rear of your skis.
13. Lean forward and use your abdominal muscles and poles to propel you forward into a smooth glide.
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