Physics of Cross Country Skiing :: physics sport sports ski skiing

Cross Country Skiing has existed since prehistoric times. The oldest pair of skis were found to be over 4500 years old. Skiing was used as a way to travel or hunt during the winter season. The skis were designed not so much for speed but to keep the skier on top of the snow. Traditionally, the skis were made of wood, the poles were made of bamboo with leather hand straps. The boots were also made of tough leather and were fastened to the skis with sinew made from animal hides. Skiing was believed to have originated from the Scandinavian countries and this fact is complimented by active skiing lifestyle that we see today. When a man by the name of Jackrabbit Johansson came to North America in 1900, he introduced skiing to locals. Skiing has evolved into a sport that has been proven to be one of the most physically demanding compared to any other sport. In Scandinavia, it is a way for families to connect with each other on the weekends, and to give the children some way to spend their endless energy during the week. Coming from Canada, I noticed that the American school system incorporates sports such as cross country skiing into the curricular activities. This is a good way to give students the option to explore their physical capabilities which may lead them to an active lifestyle or may even lead them to Olympic success. Just being outside brings about a positive mood, especially if you are out with your friends andjust having a good time.Cross Country Skiing is a lifelong sport that anyone can enjoy because the excitement can bring you up to levels you never thought possible. Wax is used in Cross Country Skiing to reduce the amount of contact between the skis and snow, or to produce the proper friction to help the skier propel him-/herself forward. Glide wax is applied to the base of the skis (but not in the 'kick-wax zone') which is in the most contact with the snow. This enables the skier to travel at faster speeds. This part of the ski is always in contact with the snow.Most glide-waxes contain a substance called paraffin which is insoluble with water (meaning that the was will remain on the skis the entire duration of your excursion!) There are two types of glide wax: hard and soft wax The hard wax is generally used in colder temperatures because it provides a good resistance to the firm cold ice crystals.