Cross country skiing is not just a winter sport, it’s a way of life. It’s a love of being outside, playing with and supporting friends, exploring trails, and learning or making up new games. Someone who cross country skis gets to play outside year round!
For BKL-aged children, the focus is on general athleticism like agility, balance, speed, strength, and endurance. The best approach to training young children is an instructional program that builds basic aptitudes. Diversifying, or sport sampling is enjoying a wide range of activities, games, and sports with the goal of developing a range of motor skills.
Below are some activity suggestions:
- Running: Vary the distance, terrain, and speed. Fun games and relays can help build a young child’s speed
- Hiking: Explore! Bring last year’s ski poles along, or swing your arms when hiking to simulate skiing. Older children may want to carry a backpack or a water bottle carrier.
- Bicycling: Master the two wheeler! Where it’s safe, bike to school, to the store, to your friend’s house, to the park, or on trails. Helmets are a must!!
- Rollerskiing: Roller skis are great fun, but it takes a lot of time to get comfortable on them. If your child does choose to rollerski, make sure they are closely supervised by coaches for both safety and technique.
To learn more about the Cross Country Skier Lifestyle, activities ideas, and much more, visit the BKL Parent Leader Manual.