Over the years cross country ski techniques have changed in response to better tracks and equipment. Competition has also added changes as athletes become stronger, more efficient and faster. Some of these competition innovations have also been accepted by the general skiing public. The series of pictures presented below highlight some of these technique changes.
Older Technique: The older techniques involved a lot of side action with the poles and a low body position.
Techniques of the 60’s to 80’s
In this period there was an emphasis on reaching with the arms and executing a very open and extended kick technique… like widely opened scissors.
Basic Skate Techniques: 80’s onwards
In this period the skating techniques have become popular and today may have supplanted the classical techniques as the norm for many skiers.
Modern Techniques
