A professional lesson is the best way to begin cross-country skiing. Firm grounding in basic technique leads to skiing proficiency more quick and increases enjoyment of this great winter sport. Joining a local ski club also offers excellent opportunities to practice new skills and learn from experienced skiers. For further development, we recommend the following aids to self directed learning:
Books: “Cross-country Skiing: building skills for fun and fitness” by Steve Hindman; The Mountaineers, 2005. Comprehensive treatment of all aspects of cross-country from racing to backcountry travel. The descriptions of basic and advanced technique are excellent. If you want just one book on cross-country skiing, this is it.
Videos: thousands of cross-country skiing videos are posted on youtube, vimeo and other sites. These selections are among the best at explaining and demonstrating basic technique.
Classic (Diagonal Stride) Technique:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gqb09bLVdoM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkczIolX0vM
Free Style (Skate) Technique:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brGZlZkCwyk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUBGWDUM4Ck&index=12&list=PLnryNkrTieonriKmmeFQcLiV-Gjjm5OGV
Telemark Turns:
