2006 Country Cross Skiing
Most cross country skiers don't glide the first time they put on a pair of cross country skis. They lurch. It seems natural to try use a shuffling or walking motion to ski, but in fact, the technique used by accomplished skiers is quite different.
The Diagonal Stride is a Basic Nordic Skiing Technique
The diagonal stride is the main technique by which skiers rhythmically propel themselves along Nordic trails. It is so-called because the skier glides on the forward foot while the opposite arm is pushing back and while the backward leg is also pushing back and kicking up a little. Start by sliding the right foot forward. At the same time, using the ski pole, the left arm and left leg both push backwards. Then glide forward on the right leg. When the glide starts to lose momentum, bring the left foot forward, while pushing back with the right arm and kicking backward with the right leg. Then glide forward, this time on the left leg.