Cross Country Skiing - Skiers ‘live longer’
Cross Country Skiing (XC), or Nordic, is the grandfather of all ski disciplines, and dates back to about 5,000 years, originating in Norway. Primitive skis were made from mainly hickory or other types of wood, and ski poles were made from bamboo with leather straps. In later years, Cross Country Skiing became a popular means of “transportation” in other Scandinavian countries, and military ski troops were formed. To this day, Cross Country Skiing is still most popular in Norway, Finland and Sweden. In fact, the much celebrated Holmenkollen Skifestival - held in Oslo, Norway - dates back to 1892, and the word, “ski” (n.), meaning stick of wood, stems from the Old Norse word, “skith”.
Cross Country Skiing has since become an extremely popular recreational activity for people of all ages. Because it’s less physically challenging, than the Alpine discipline, more people are able to participate. Most anybody can easily and quickly become proficient enough to greatly enjoy Cross Country Skiing, and because it’s affordable, entire families are financially able to enjoy outings together. As opposed to the Alpine sport, Cross Country Skiing doesn’t require that a person travel to ski resorts, or wait for the ski season to start. Instead of purchasing lift tickets, XC skiers can ski almost any place where there’s snow, and access many scenic places. Cross Country Skiing allows a skier the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature, travel through quiet woods, and ski through other tranquil settings. Additionally, there are numerous parks that cater to the sport. If you’d like a ski area that is a little less in the backwoods, and offers friendlier ski conditions, many parks are available. Most parks have groomed nature trails, warming huts to relax in (often with wood-burning stoves), and ski waxing tables along the way. Also available, throughout the long trails, are restrooms and snack bars. For those who enjoy camping and Cross Country Skiing, some national and local parks allow it. Amenities, and other services, are available to make the experience a more complete and memorable one.
Thousands, who enjoy Cross Country Skiing, have joined ski clubs, which offer the chance to socialize with others who take pleasure in this fun winter pastime. Joining a ski club is a fantastic way to learn more about the sport, because many of the clubs have ski lessons available for those wishing to hone their skills. Ski clubs also have organized day trips, and other planned excursions. Because folks, who enjoy Cross Country Skiing, usually are inclined to enjoy other adventurous outdoor activities, many ski clubs also organize hiking, rafting, kayaking, biking, and other events for its members.
As well as being very enjoyable, Cross Country Skiing is an excellent aerobic activity, and quite possibly the best overall exercise for the body. One of the most attractive benefits, to this repetitive workout, is that it’s low-impact and doesn’t put stress on the joints. That’s great news for those who love to ski, but can’t physically endure the downhill version. Because it is an extremely healthy activity for mind, body and spirit, it is no wonder that the sport’s slogan is, “XC skiers live longer”!