This endurance sport has origins dating back about 5,000 years, when, historians say, people living in the area we call Scandinavia strapped the bones of large animals to shoes with leather thongs. In 1200 B.C., Swedish scouts took up the practice, donning skis during the Battle of Oslo to pursue enemy soldiers encamped in deep snow. Today, cross-country skiers use runners made of Fiberglas, wood and plastics.
Boots attach to the skis with safety-release bindings, and ski poles are flexible.
This sport is easy to learn but difficult to perfect. It engages every part of the body and is an excellent aerobic exercise. Because cross-country skiing doesn't put heavy stress on the joints, it is popular among people of all ages and fitness levels. Cross-country ski machines offer the benefits of a skiing workout without the need for snow .