If you are new to cross-country skiing, mastering the fundamentals is essential before heading out on the tracks. One of the very first skills to learn is speed control to ski safely. In this guide, Cimalp explains how to brake in cross-country skiing.
Key takeaways:
- The snowplough and skidding are the two main techniques for braking in cross-country skiing.
- The snowplough, essential for beginners, allows you to shed speed gradually.
- Skidding, suited to more advanced skiers, is ideal on long descents as well as for emergency stops.
Braking with the snowplough
When starting out in cross-country skiing, the snowplough is the primary braking technique to master. It is ideal for slowing down at low speeds and delivers progressive deceleration over distance. Note that it is not suited for emergency stops.
The snowplough relies on a series of straightforward movements. Start by flexing your knees slightly inwards to form a "V" shape with your skis. Push your heels apart while keeping the tips close together. Then, apply gentle pressure to the inside edges of the skis to increase friction and regulate your speed.
During this drill, keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and lean your torso slightly forwards to maintain balance. Finally, take care not to cross your ski tips, as this can cause a fall.
To learn how to brake in classic cross-country skiing, you will need to step out of the tracks. Pre-set grooves are not suited to the snowplough stance, and attempting it inside them can damage the tracks. If you feel you are picking up too much speed, gently step out to the side and execute your snowplough.
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Braking by skidding
Once the snowplough is mastered, more experienced skiers can brake by side-slipping or skidding. This technique can be used for emergency stops, avoiding obstacles, or initiating turns. Side-slipping is particularly useful on long descents to scrub off cross-country skiing speed through wide turns.
The body position for skidding differs from the snowplough. Bend your knees forwards and pivot your skis across the fall line. Distribute your weight evenly across both skis and apply edge pressure to slow your descent. Finally, fine-tune your balance by shifting weight between the balls of your feet and your heels.
Braking by skidding requires practice. Start on a gentle slope, then gradually increase steepness and speed. Once again, always skid outside the cross-country skiing tracks.
The snowplough and stem Christie are useful across various skiing disciplines. If you want to push your practice further, explore the difference between cross-country skiing and ski touring.
You now know how to brake in cross-country skiing. Whether you are a beginner or more advanced, controlling your speed is crucial for safe skiing. With practice, the snowplough and side-slipping will allow you to fully enjoy the thrill of this winter sport.
