Basic skiing: the difference between the styles

Would you like to get closer to the world of cross-country skiing but don't know where to start? Then let's start by analyzing the differences that distinguish the two existing styles, the classic and the more modern one, known as skating.

What is cross-country skiing?

Born in Norway and anciently considered the best way to move on the snow, cross-country skiing is a sport that involves the use of skis and snow poles, to move along snowy flat or hilly routes.

What are the characteristics of the classic style?

Practiced since the end of the nineteenth century, the classic mode is certainly the one we recommend starting with: it is perfect, in fact, for beginners and people  who have not gained experience on the snow.

What you will need are, obviously, a pair of skis and a pair of poles. The main movements, of the arms and legs, must be as natural as possible: alternating the right arm with the left leg and vice versa, creates a movement that propels us forward, allowing us to advance.

Another difference that characterizes the classic methodology requires that our skis move within pre-established paths, which resemble a sort of rails and make it easier to simple the first approaches to this activity.

So, what is skating?

Unlike the classic style, to practice this type of cross-country skiing a bit of experience is required. The name of this sport comes from the fact that, in fact, the movements that are performed are very similar to those performed by ice skaters or roller skaters.

In fact, the legs push forward and outwards: for this reason skating is practiced on beaten tracks - and not inside pre-established tracks - to guarantee the most total freedom of movement.

It is necessary to have good balance, a sense of rhythm and be accustomed to using poles: otherwise, as often happens, beginners risk getting one of the poles stuck in the ski of the same side, a phenomenon known as crossing.

Since it is a style that ruins the tracks on the slopes, it is necessary to make sure that there is permission to practice it in the ski resort where we are. It is certainly the most popular style tiring of the two and requires more energy.

And now that you have all the information to distinguish between the two styles, all you have to do is choose one and try it! You can take a lesson or more lessons in Sestriere, at Scuola Sci Sestriere, or move to Grosseto and meet the super team at Booking Amiata. If you love the islands, rely on the experience of the instructors of Big Alpine Guide, in the splendid Sardinia!

Whichever structure you choose, you will spend a day dedicated to fun!