Mike
2010-09-07, 19:47
Langlauf is also known as 'cross-country skiing', 'XC', 'ski de fond' or 'sci di fondo'.
This uses very light shoes, non-metal edged skis and long poles. Forward propulsion is achieved by using wax or a pattern on the central part of the sole of the ski. These allow you to slide forwards but not backwards, and to ski uphill.
Skiing is in machine-prepared tracks, usually through beautiful winter landscapes.
Levels can be recreational or up to competition level. Both arms and legs propel the skier. Competing, as seen in the Olympics, is a very technical discipline as well as being one of the most demanding aerobic activities.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ5Pel3_An8
This uses very light shoes, non-metal edged skis and long poles. Forward propulsion is achieved by using wax or a pattern on the central part of the sole of the ski. These allow you to slide forwards but not backwards, and to ski uphill.
Skiing is in machine-prepared tracks, usually through beautiful winter landscapes.
Levels can be recreational or up to competition level. Both arms and legs propel the skier. Competing, as seen in the Olympics, is a very technical discipline as well as being one of the most demanding aerobic activities.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ5Pel3_An8