Get fit for cross country skiing with nordic walking

If you want to make the most of your cross country skiing holiday and minimise aching muscles, spending time building your fitness and stamina will pay dividends. Nordic walking originated as a summer training method for cross country skiers in Finland and can help you get more out of your holiday.

Nordic walking is the only exercise, apart from roller skiing, that works on:

• toning your arms and shoulder muscles [this is really important for women who tend to be weaker in this area than men]

• co-ordinating your arms and legs

• using poles to propel you forwards efficiently

Working on these three key elements will make a difference to your cross country skiing and you'll progress more easily when you get on snow.     

I can give you tips and information about cross country skiing as I'm a Snowsport England qualified cross country skiing and roller ski instructor as well as a INWA nordic walking teacher.  Find out more and read our article on the choice between nordic walking and roller ski-ing.