I am quite a newbie skier having just started last year. Friends of mine talked me into giving it a whirl last winter. I've only went a couple times last year and then again this year due to time and money constraints so haven't had a lot of practice yet. Anyhow, I haven't tried cross country yet and am wondering what the differences are between the types of skiing? Is it a better physical workout with cross country? It seems like it would be very physical which I would enjoy as a new way to get a workout.
I haven't ever cross countried, so I am maybe not the best judge, but my understanding is it's WAY more physical. And it's free. I really want to take it up. I love the idea of skiing off into the winter wilderness instead of skiing into slush with a bunch of other people. If I'm doing that, I wanna be on a board.
That's one of the reasons I want to try cross country. Man, the freakin' lift tickets and ski passes are so high. No wonder the television always show the rich folk up at the ski lodge! I have to find me a rich girlfriend or a poor girlfriend with a rich daddy.
Yes, there are definitely less thrills if you live in an area that is mostly flat. However it is normal to find somewhere with enough of a slope that you can get your free ride at some point. You can drive out to somewhere local that has some open space and suitable hill if needs be.
I was hoping for something I could do kind of right in my backyard but from what you guys say, it will be kind of boring if it's all flat land? I can travel a couple towns over, I suppose, if I can find a place where I'd be allowed.
I was hoping for something I could do kind of right in my backyard but from what you guys say, it will be kind of boring if it's all flat land? I can travel a couple towns over, I suppose, if I can find a place where I'd be allowed.
XC skiing is very suitable for flatlanders. It is boring, but that's just my opinion. It seems that lots of other people like it...
XC is definitely suitable for flat land, if the scenery is good and you're not concerned on speed and a free ride without effort. I use it to get around when it snows in my town. I live near plenty of trails so its easy to head out to grab some last minute groceries from the corner store even if they haven't plowed. It is a bit more fun if there is some small hills or nice scenery though.
The equipment is different yes. The toe bindings anchor the toe to the ski and the heel is free so that you can move, so that the heel can lift in the back phase of the stride or push. The skis are longer and thinner, and the poles may be longer, but that depends on preference and technique.
ETA; I would think you might be able to try XC with alpine gear, but I haven't so can't comment.
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