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Cross-country skiing, a family activity
Very popular in Northern Europe, Canada and Russia, cross-country skiing is still often considered in France – wrongly! – like the Nordic activity of seniors. What earned him to be shunned by families and the youngest. Direction Serre Chevalier and its surroundings (Hautes-Alpes) which offer a completely different face of this mountain sport.
Cross-country skiing, a fun sport for children
Just like alpine skiing, cross-country skiing requires technical training, supervised by an instructor. From 4 years old, when toddlers become more resistant to cold and stress, children can learn about alternative (classic) cross-country skiing. This technique facilitates the first learning: downhill turns, running uphill … And thanks to a multitude of games, such as ski hockey, the little ones progress quickly.
To vary the pleasures, apprentice skiers can leave the marked cross-country ski trails to discover the flora and fauna more freely, with an experienced instructor.
From 8 years old, toddlers can also learn to skate. A variation of cross-country skiing that requires balance and coordination skills. Moreover, children already practicing rollerblading have more facilities, the gesture being almost identical.
Festi Nordic: cross-country skiing in celebration Every year, from December to February, the Hautes-Alpes Ski de fond association and its partners, working for the development of the discipline, particularly with women and children, organize the “Festi Nordic”. This event, free and on registration, allows families and children, from 4 years old, to discover the discipline in a fun way (slalom, ski hockey, biathlon…), around several sites in the region. At each module, a facilitator is present to help the participants. Note: equipment is available on site for those who are not equipped. More info on www.skinordique.eu |
Cross-country skiing, less restrictive for the little ones
Whether it is alternative skiing or skating, each of the two techniques requires specific equipment. But unlike alpine skiing equipment (helmet, heavy boots), it is much lighter and easier to wear. All you need is a suitable pair of shoes, large enough to wear warm socks, a coverall for the first sessions and light underwear. Not to mention the hat, sunglasses, light gloves and sunscreen with a high protection factor.
Cross-country skiing: less risky and less expensive for families
Some parents are reluctant to have their toddler ski, especially for fear of falls. Cross-country skiing can reassure more than one! Less invigorating than alpine skiing, accidents are much less numerous. It is therefore a family activity par excellence.
Another benefit: the price. Cross-country skiing remains an accessible winter activity, ideal for small budgets. And for good reason, the cost of the ski pass and the equipment (both for purchase and for rental) is lower than for other board sports. For example, in the Hautes-Alpes area, ski passes are free for children under 10 years old. So many good reasons to go cross-country skiing with your family!