Get Fit For Cross-Country Skiing
It’s one of the most intense winter sports. Even though the winter season is about a couple of months away, you need to get in shape now.
It’s a two way process. First of all, you need to strengthen your muscles. It’s essential as in cross-country skiing you use virtually every muscle in the body. Legs, shoulders, arms and abdomen need toning once or twice a week. Then, there’s also fitness. Most people will need at least twelve weeks of training before their trip in order to build aerobic fitness steadily. Begin with 20-25 minutes run, then go for one 30-minute bike ride a week. Don’t forget to build the speed and intensity of each session as your trip approaches.
Use the hills you live nearby. Walk fast or even jog uphill while working your arms with a pair of Nordic walking poles.
You’ll also need to sharpen up your balance. The key to successful cross-country is being able to stand comfortably on one ski while it’s moving, as you prepare to push off with the next. The best way to improve your balance is through activities that mimic the cross-country experience (i.e. ice skating and rollerblading).
That’s quite a lot to do before the actual training but by preparing your body you don’t risk an injury or long-term damage.
