I LOVE cross-country skiing.

Gliding through the snow-covered woods on groomed ski trails is nothing short of magical.

However, I have a confession to make: I’ve only gone cross-country skiing like five times – all in the last six years and all of the “classic” variety.

So why have I only done something a handful of times when I love it so much? Time. Time is precious when there’s a full-time job to tend to, my wife and three children at home who I enjoy hanging out with creating memories, as well as spending time with other family and friends.

Oh, and running. I’m already a runner! A runner who doesn’t even run as much as he would like to. With that mindset and current life situation it’s hard for me to justify attempting another cardio/time-intensive hobby…but that doesn’t mean I don’t want to 🙂

This article by Runner’s World has me thinking I should try to get into cross-country skiing next winter. Maybe instead of running Monday-Friday, I could run M/W/F and ski Tu/Th?

Skiing involves less impact on joints/ligaments/tendons, is still a fantastic workout, and provides a break from running that may be needed for some of us. It also works a lot of the same muscles as running and involves a whole lot more upper body exercise.

Many of us are absolutely spoiled when it comes to amazingly groomed cross-country ski trails here in the Northland. Odds are you don’t live more than 5-10 miles from the nearest trail system.

NOTE: Many of these groomed trails are open to walkers/hikers/snowshoes/runners as well – for those of us not currently on skis, please pay attention to posted rules and always respect the trails. Even if it is not clearly indicated that you should stay to one side please do so! Do not run right down the middle of meticulously groomed trails as it is clearly for skiers. Move to the far edge of the groomed trail (opposite side as the classic ski tracks if there are any) and follow posted rules. Thanks!

At some point I will definitely be getting into cross-country skiing for real. To me, it just feels like a Duluthian/Northern MN thing to do. For now, I will continue putting my trail shoes on all winter to log miles while embracing the frozen, beautiful outdoors we call home – at times right alongside my skiing friends!