The Surprising Truth About Classic vs Freestyle Cross Country Skiing - The Ski Lesson (2024)

Cross country skiing has been a popular winter sport for centuries, but there are two main styles that have emerged over the years: classic and freestyle. While they may seem similar on the surface, there are actually quite a few differences between the two.

The classic style is the more traditional of the two, with skiers gliding in pre-made tracks in the snow. This style is great for beginners and those looking for a more leisurely pace. On the other hand, freestyle skiing involves skating motions and is typically faster and more intense.

The differences between classic and freestyle cross country skiing go beyond just technique. There are also differences in equipment, calorie burn, and which style may be right for you. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the surprising truth about classic vs freestyle cross country skiing, and help you decide which style may be best for you.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just starting out, understanding the nuances between classic and freestyle skiing can help you take your skills to the next level. Keep reading to learn more!

Discover the History of Cross Country Skiing

The history of cross country skiing dates back thousands of years, when Nordic people would use wooden skis to travel across snowy landscapes. These early skis were long and narrow, designed for efficiency over speed. As the sport evolved, cross country skiing became a competitive sport, with races taking place in the early 20th century.

Today, cross country skiing is enjoyed by people all over the world for its health benefits, beauty, and challenging nature. Let’s explore the history and evolution of this popular winter sport.

The Origins of Cross Country Skiing

Cross country skiing is said to have originated in Scandinavia, where it was used as a means of transportation during harsh winter months. The first skis were made from wood and were designed for efficiency, not speed. Nordic people used skis to travel long distances across snow-covered terrain, hunting and gathering food along the way.

As the sport grew in popularity, skiing became a competitive sport with the first ski race taking place in Norway in the 19th century.

The Evolution of Cross Country Skiing

• With the development of new materials, such as fiberglass and carbon fiber, ski equipment became lighter and more efficient.
• Techniques for skiing, such as the classic style and freestyle, evolved over time, with athletes continually striving for greater speed and efficiency.
• The sport of cross country skiing was first included in the Winter Olympics in 1924 and has been a staple of the games ever since.

The Health Benefits of Cross Country Skiing

Cross country skiing is a great form of exercise, offering a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength and endurance, and boosts overall fitness.

The sport is also low-impact, making it an excellent choice for people of all ages and fitness levels. Cross country skiing is a great way to get outside, enjoy the winter scenery, and stay active during the colder months.

So, whether you’re an experienced skier or just starting out, cross country skiing offers a rich history, an evolving sport, and countless health benefits that are worth exploring.

Classic Cross Country Skiing: The Traditional Way

If you are a lover of winter sports and want to experience the traditional way of skiing, then classic cross country skiing might be perfect for you. This technique has been around for centuries and has been enjoyed by people all over the world.

The classic cross country skiing technique involves skiing in a straight line, using a forward kick and glide motion to move forward. This technique is also known as “diagonal stride” or “kick and glide” skiing. This technique is more relaxed than the freestyle technique, making it perfect for beginners and those who want to enjoy a more leisurely pace on the trails.

The History of Classic Cross Country Skiing

Classic cross country skiing has a long history, dating back to the early days of skiing when it was used for transportation across snowy landscapes. In Scandinavia, skiing was a way of life and the traditional method of getting around during the long winter months.

In the early 20th century, cross country skiing became a sport in its own right, with the first Nordic skiing competitions held in the 1920s. Classic cross country skiing was one of the original techniques used in these competitions and is still a popular form of cross country skiing today.

Equipment for Classic Cross Country Skiing

• Skis: Classic cross country skis are longer and thinner than those used for freestyle skiing. They have a camber (arch) in the middle, which allows the skier to grip the snow and glide forward.
• Boots: Classic cross country ski boots are lightweight and flexible, allowing the skier to have a natural stride while skiing.
• Poles: Classic cross country ski poles are longer than those used in freestyle skiing, allowing the skier to push off and maintain balance while skiing.

Where to Try Classic Cross Country Skiing

Classic cross country skiing is a popular winter sport all over the world, with many ski resorts offering trails and lessons for beginners. Some popular destinations for classic cross country skiing include:

• Scandinavia: Norway, Sweden, and Finland all have a long history of skiing and offer some of the best trails in the world.
• Canada: With its snowy winters and beautiful landscapes, Canada is a popular destination for cross country skiing.
• United States: Many ski resorts in the United States offer trails and lessons for classic cross country skiing, including Vermont, Colorado, and Minnesota.

Overall, classic cross country skiing is a great way to enjoy the winter months and experience the traditional way of skiing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, this technique is sure to provide you with hours of enjoyment on the trails.

Freestyle Cross Country Skiing: The Modern Take

Cross country skiing has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a mode of transportation. Today, it is a popular recreational activity enjoyed by millions around the world. Freestyle skiing has emerged as a modern take on the traditional cross country skiing technique.

The term freestyle skiing encompasses several variations of cross country skiing that emphasize speed, agility, and technique. Skiers use shorter, wider skis and poles that allow for more fluid and dynamic movement. This style of skiing is often associated with competitive events and requires a high level of skill and fitness.

The Classic vs. Freestyle Debate

• Classic cross country skiing is the traditional form of the sport, where skiers use a diagonal stride motion and follow parallel tracks in the snow.
• Freestyle cross country skiing allows for more freedom and creativity in movement, and skiers can use a variety of techniques and styles to navigate the terrain.

Both styles have their own unique benefits and challenges, and many skiers enjoy practicing both. Freestyle skiing is often preferred by those who enjoy the technical challenge and athleticism of the sport, while classic skiing is a great option for those who prefer a more leisurely and relaxed pace.

Getting Started with Freestyle Cross Country Skiing

If you’re interested in trying freestyle cross country skiing, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to have the right equipment, including shorter, wider skis and poles that are designed for the freestyle technique. It’s also a good idea to take lessons or practice with an experienced skier to learn the proper techniques and avoid injury.

• Find a local ski resort or cross country skiing center that offers freestyle skiing trails and lessons.
• Invest in quality equipment that fits properly and is designed for the freestyle technique.
• Practice regularly and focus on improving your technique and fitness level.

With dedication and practice, freestyle cross country skiing can be a rewarding and exhilarating way to stay active and enjoy the winter season.

The Differences in Technique and Equipment

While both classic cross country skiing and freestyle cross country skiing are great ways to enjoy the winter season, they differ in technique and equipment.

When it comes to technique, classic cross country skiing involves a diagonal stride, where skiers kick and glide in parallel tracks. Freestyle cross country skiing, on the other hand, involves a skating motion, where skiers push off with the edges of their skis in a V-shaped pattern.

Equipment Differences

Classic cross country skiing typically uses longer and thinner skis, with a grip zone underfoot for traction. This allows for a more stable and efficient kick-and-glide motion in the tracks.

Freestyle cross country skiing requires shorter and wider skis with a full-length waxable or non-waxable base. This allows for greater control and maneuverability during the skating motion.

Technique Differences

Classic cross country skiing is a more traditional and relaxed style, where skiers can take in the scenery and enjoy a leisurely pace. It is often used for longer distances, such as touring or racing.

Freestyle cross country skiing, on the other hand, is a more athletic and dynamic style, where skiers can reach higher speeds and navigate more challenging terrain. It is often used for shorter distances or in competitive settings.

• Diagonal Stride: The classic cross country skiing technique where skiers kick and glide in parallel tracks.
• Skating Motion: The freestyle cross country skiing technique where skiers push off with the edges of their skis in a V-shaped pattern.

Whether you prefer the traditional and relaxing style of classic cross country skiing or the dynamic and athletic style of freestyle cross country skiing, both offer a great way to stay active and enjoy the winter season.

Which One Burns More Calories: Classic or Freestyle?

One of the most common questions among cross country skiers is which technique burns more calories: classic or freestyle? While both techniques are excellent cardiovascular workouts, there are some differences in the way they use energy and the muscles involved.

Classic skiing, also known as diagonal stride, involves a forward motion similar to walking or running. The skier pushes off with one ski and glides on the other, alternating sides to maintain momentum. Freestyle skiing, on the other hand, uses a skating motion similar to ice skating or rollerblading. The skier pushes off with the inside edge of one ski and glides on the opposite edge, using their arms and poles to generate power.

Calorie Burning

When it comes to calorie burning, both classic and freestyle skiing are excellent workouts. However, the exact number of calories burned will depend on several factors, including your weight, fitness level, and intensity of the workout. As a general rule, cross country skiing burns more calories than many other winter sports, including downhill skiing and snowboarding. According to the American Council on Exercise, a 150-pound person can expect to burn around 450-500 calories per hour while cross country skiing at a moderate pace.

Muscles Used

Classic skiing and freestyle skiing also use different muscle groups, which may affect your overall calorie burn and fitness goals. Classic skiing primarily works the legs, glutes, and core muscles, while freestyle skiing engages more upper body muscles, including the shoulders, arms, and back. Both techniques are excellent full-body workouts, but depending on your goals, you may want to focus on one technique over the other.

The Verdict

So, which technique burns more calories: classic or freestyle? The truth is that it depends on several factors, including your weight, fitness level, and intensity of the workout. Both techniques are excellent cardiovascular workouts that engage multiple muscle groups and burn significant calories. Ultimately, the best technique for you is the one that you enjoy the most and can stick to consistently.

Which Style of Cross Country Skiing is Right for You?

Choosing the right style of cross country skiing can be daunting, especially for beginners. There are two main styles of cross country skiing: classic and skate (also known as freestyle). Both styles have their own techniques and equipment, and each provides a unique experience.

Here is some information to help you decide which style of cross country skiing is right for you.

Classic Cross Country Skiing

• Technique: In classic cross country skiing, the skis move in parallel tracks that are set into the snow. The skier uses a forward and backward motion, known as a kick and glide, to move forward.
• Equipment: Classic skis are longer and narrower than skate skis, and they have a pattern on the base to grip the snow in the tracks. Classic boots are soft and flexible, allowing for ankle movement. Classic poles are longer than skate poles, with a curved or straight handle for a comfortable grip.
• Experience: Classic skiing is great for beginners or those who want a more relaxed skiing experience. It is also a good choice for skiing on groomed trails or in backcountry terrain with established tracks.

Skate (Freestyle) Cross Country Skiing

• Technique: Skate skiing is a faster, more dynamic form of cross country skiing that resembles ice skating. Skiers use a V-shaped stride and a lateral push to move forward, similar to the motion of skating.
• Equipment: Skate skis are shorter and wider than classic skis, with a smooth base for gliding. Skate boots are stiffer and provide more ankle support than classic boots. Skate poles are shorter than classic poles and have a straight handle for pushing off the snow.
• Experience: Skate skiing is a great choice for those who want a more athletic, faster-paced skiing experience. It is well-suited for skiing on groomed trails or in ungroomed, backcountry terrain.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision between classic and skate skiing comes down to personal preference and skiing goals. Classic skiing is great for beginners, relaxed skiing, and established trails, while skate skiing is a more dynamic, athletic option for faster-paced skiing and varied terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between classic and freestyle cross country skiing?

Answer: Classic cross country skiing is done with a straight, narrow ski that has a grip zone underfoot, allowing skiers to stride forward using a diagonal stride technique. Freestyle cross country skiing, on the other hand, is done with a wider ski and no grip zone, which allows skiers to move using a skate-like motion, pushing off with the edges of the skis.

Is one style of skiing more difficult than the other?

Answer: Both classic and freestyle cross country skiing require different techniques and can be challenging in their own ways. Classic skiing is generally considered easier to learn and more suitable for beginners, while freestyle skiing requires more physical strength and coordination.

Can you use the same skis for both classic and freestyle skiing?

Answer: While some skiers may choose to use the same skis for both classic and freestyle skiing, it’s recommended to have separate skis for each style. Classic skis are typically shorter and narrower, while freestyle skis are longer and wider.

What type of terrain is best for classic skiing?

Answer: Classic skiing is best suited for groomed trails with a set track, which provides a guide for the skis and allows for the diagonal stride technique. Classic skiing can also be done off-trail, but requires more skill and experience.

What type of terrain is best for freestyle skiing?

Answer: Freestyle skiing can be done on a variety of terrain, including groomed trails, backcountry terrain, and even on some downhill ski slopes. However, freestyle skiing is generally best suited for wide, open spaces with firm, packed snow.

What type of boots and bindings are needed for classic and freestyle skiing?

Answer: Classic skiing requires boots and bindings that allow for a free heel, while freestyle skiing requires boots and bindings that hold the heel in place. Many cross country ski boots and bindings are designed to be compatible with both classic and freestyle skiing, but it’s important to check compatibility before purchasing.