Getting started with classic roller skiing

By Keith and Heather Nicol

Roller skiing is an ideal way to get ready for the cross country ski season but it takes some practice to be able to feel comfortable while roller skiing. After all pavement is a lot harder than snow. If you are new to classic roller skiing I suggest that you have a look at these 3 wheeled roller skis by Jenex the XL125RC.  Since they have 3 wheels they make balancing easier than a traditional classic roller ski with 2 wheels. I suggest that you start out with your roller skis on grass trying some of the exercises like balancing on a single ski and making small step turns. That way you can get comfortable with roller skis in an environment where if you fall you won’t likely get hurt. 

 Once you get on pavement try the scooter drill – with one ski on and pushing back with the foot with no ski on it. Remember to try to align your toe, knee and nose over the ski that is gliding (See photo above) Be sure to switch skis so that you practice balancing on each both your right and left ski. Next with both skis on try striding – working on developing the one footed balance from ski to ski. The Jenex XL125RC can be obtained with a brake which I suggest especially for skiers new to roller skiing. By keeping your speed under control with the brake you can develop the balance and coordination needed to stride on roller skis without moving too fast. Once you are at ease with classic skiing with the brake on you can reduce the braking action so that you glide further with each stride as seen here.   As you improve and want to go faster think about getting more power by pushing down and back – as your striding leg leaves the pavement you should have a straight line between your leg and torso as seen in the photo below. By practicing no poles classic roller skiing you will be ready to glide in the tracks when the snow falls.  Also wear appropriate safety equipment like a helmet, possibly knee and elbow pads and start out on flat smooth pavement where you can’t get going too fast. If you would like on line or in person coaching to improve your roller skiing contact me at k2nicol@gmail.com. For a video on these drills and exercises see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmZsgHIzKA4