Skating on cross-country skis is by far the fastest and most efficient way to hit the winter trail. It is also a great way to switch your workout and to get more comfortable on your skis.
1. Find a wide section of trail that's fairly smooth. A groomed track is ideal.
2. Begin by spreading your skis a little more than shoulder width apart.
3. Make a V shape, with your tips pointed outward.
4. Walk a few steps in a ducklike fashion.
5. Look back at the tails of your skis as you do this. If your skis are crossing, you'll need to take a wider stance and longer steps.
6. Increase your stride length and let the skis glide a little with each step, using the same motion that you do in ice-skating.
7. Strive for long, even glides. Once you get into a rhythm, you'll find that the motion is rather natural.
8. Push with both poles at the start of each stride. As your speed picks up, try pole-planting on every other stride.
