Why Nordic Skiing is Fun

Any Nordic skier has probably been met with the question, “why would you want to ski uphill?” at some point in time. Those who haven’t tried it often can’t fathom why anyone would strap skinny skis to their feet and go not only down a hill, but also up. And with no lifts, either!

If you want to try cross-country skiing, you might be wondering that, too. The reality is that skiing uphill is only one small part of the Nordic skiing experience. The great thing about the sport is you can ski at any level or speed that suits you, from touring around woodsy trails at barely faster than a snowshoer’s pace to Olympic-level racing speeds.

Either way, Nordic skiing is fun. Let’s take a look at a few reasons why that’s true and put to rest the myth that Nordic skiing is only about struggling up hills.

Being Outside

Being outside is one of the best things about Nordic skiing. There’s nothing quite like breathing fresh air and using the power of your own body to propel you through trails thick with fluffy snow, canopies of snow-covered trees, and perfectly groomed tracks.

Spending time outside on Nordic skis can be an extremely peaceful experience — one that enables you to notice environmental features and unique wildlife along the way. Since Nordic skiing is more about steady rhythms than breakneck speeds, you’re more likely to notice and appreciate your surroundings during your ski.

Nordic skiing is also one of the best and most effective forms of exercise because it uses your entire body. The sport relieves stress and promotes health. In the face of the obesity epidemic, this is more important than ever.

Using Your Brain

Nordic skiing takes a lot of brain power — at least at first. While learning complicated skiing technique can be frustrating at first, things slowly become incorporated into muscle memory and the joy of working on and mastering a new skill becomes apparent.

Noticing your progress is very easy in Nordic skiing as you become a faster and more efficient skier. Nothing tops the feeling of when each individual movement of ski and pole clicks together and you feel like you’re dancing across the snow.

Nordic skiers are a social bunch, too. Exercising in groups often boosts endorphins, as you’re getting both a social high and exercise high. You’ll often see people stopping along the trail to chat or skiing side by side on a wide skating track.

Variety

There’s a lot of variety in Nordic skiing, from the different techniques of classic and skate to the various types of trails you can ski on. Perhaps you want to ski around at a designated Nordic center with beautifully groomed trails and a toasty lodge waiting for you when you come in, or maybe you’d rather ski to backcountry huts through deeper snow and woods.

Whatever you do, you’ll never get bored Nordic skiing. If ever you tire of one thing, there are plenty of ways to switch up your skiing routine, keep it fresh, and even learn something new.

Essentials

You only need a few essentials to get started Nordic skiing. First of all, the right size skis, poles, and boots are must-haves. You don’t need to have fancy gear, but you do need to have gear that fits you. Otherwise you will have a hard time maneuvering your skis and learning the right technique.

Next, you’ll need lightweight and breathable layers that you can easily take off as you warm up. Comfortable gloves and a light hat are needed, too. You should also definitely wear sunglasses when Nordic skiing since the bright sun reflects heavily off the white snow.

Finally, always be sure to have a trail pass if one is required, and bring water and a snack if you’re going to be out for an extended period of time.

It’s easy to see that Nordic skiing is about a lot more than skiing uphill. It can be every bit as fun and thrilling as other types of winter sports and is full of other benefits for health and happiness. So don’t hesitate to give Nordic skiing a try this winter. You won’t regret it!