3 fun ways to introduce your family to cross-country skiing

Gliding through a freshly-powdered meadow while getting in a solid winter workout is just what makes cross-country skiing ideal. Here are some ideas to help get your family interested.

Nordic skiing is a common name that actually refers to several cross-country ski styles. There are equipment variations for each, so eventually you will want to decide what kind of skiing you and your family will be doing the most. Here's a quick description of each:

• Classic: Fast and built for gliding along groomed tracks, these are sometimes called the "road bikes" of the sport.
• Skate: Made to go fast on tracks, skate technique is similar to inline skating and is the most aerobic style.
• Touring: Like the name suggests, this is a style for longer tours. Skis are shorter and wider and are suited for back country with untracked snow. There are skis made for light touring and heavy, longer distance touring.
• Combi: This style incorporates some of the speed of skate and classic, merged with the wider touring style. Usually, combi skiing is done on groomed trails or short off-track runs.

There are different waxing techniques applied that are dependent on the particular ski being used and the track or run.

• Skis are waxed in two parts: the grip, or "kick" section, and the glide section.
• Understanding how wax works, along with when and how to apply it, will make for a better overall experience.

There are dozens of cross-country ski clubs that can be found all over the country.

• The camaraderie that comes from a group setting can help encourage initial interest into a full-blown fun pastime.
• Clubs exist for beginners on up to the highest levels of competitions. They also cover a wide range of activities, from light track skiing to back country adventures and specialties like the biathlon.

Many of the clubs offer lessons for adults and children and are a great resource to turn to. Additionally, lessons are offered through ski areas and equipment providers.

• The different variations in style, and how each is approached when it comes to equipment and waxing, makes good lessons all the more important.
• That way, you are able to choose just what kinds of skis to buy and how you want to enjoy the sport from a more informed position.

There's a peaceful feeling when cross-country skiing that isn't found on the crowded downhill slopes of resorts. Try some of these tips if you and your family are thinking of trying a new winter sport this season.