Here's a collection of mis-leading ideas and
half-truths about how to skate fast and efficiently on cross country skis -- from my analysis of the basic physics and
biomechanics. For a more
positive view of the physics, see Tricky
Secrets of Ski Skating.
Many of these concepts are true for some skating situations,
but not for all -- yet they have sometimes been presented as
basic fundamental principles which are right for all skating.
Some of these concepts might be helpful to some people as
mental images, even in situations where they're not true as
objective physics. That's part of the fun of learning to
ski as a full human
being.
physics fallacies
Skating is a zig-zag motion. The key to effective skating is
to power the zig-zag.
I get more forward-motion power if I push the ski more toward the
back, less out to the side. The optimal skate-push is made
at a 45-degree angle from my average line of forward motion.
