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Our Professional staff has the answer to the following question:

I have been cross-country skiing and I do OK, why do I need a ski lesson?

Nordic skiing is a diverse and wonderful sport. All abilities and personalities can easily enjoy the sport. In cross-country skiing a little technique can go a long way. A little more technique and a few adjustments to your present technique can take you much further with a lot less effort, falling and frustration.

Please consider the following points:

Kick- Is the momentary traction, during our striding motion, that propels us forward.

  1. Do you feel that you really get enough grip from your skis to strongly propel yourself forward?
  2. Toward the end of your stride (kick) does your ski slip and quickly move backward?
  3. Do you have to herringbone small hills while others stride up them?

Glide- Is the slide that is experienced after the kick.

  1. Do you feel that you get several feet of glide between each stride when skiing on flat/level terrain?
  2. Do you feel that you take more strides to cover the same distance as other folks?
  3. Do you hear a slapping sound from your skis?

Nordic downhill skiing- Cross-country skiing is not without its share of skiing down hills. Many trails have very spirited downhill sections.

  1. Do you feel comfortable when you come to a downhill section that requires turning and speed control (braking)?
  2. On a downhill section can you stop anytime you want?
  3. On downhill sections do you fall down?

Uphill Technique- Just as there are downhill trail sections to ski, there are also uphill sections that must be climbed

  1. Does your herringbone technique feel awkward?
  2. When herringboning do your skis slide backward (And you fall forward)?
  3. Do you see people striding up hills that you have to herringbone up?

These points are common to many skiers and are easily coached to a more efficient and effective skiing style. Some of the other points and techniques we can coach you with are:

Terrain tactics -- Waxing -- Balance drills -- Advanced downhill technique -- Racing -- Double poling -- Skating -- Classic poling -- Backcountry skiing

Taking a lesson will improve your skiing technique and your skiing experience.