Langlaufen

Langlaufen, known in English as cross-country skiing, is a form of Nordic skiing in which skiers travel over snow on lightweight skis, typically on flat or rolling terrain. It emphasizes endurance and efficiency rather than downhill speed and relies on technique, kick-toe grip or waxless patterns, and equipment designed for long-distance travel. The activity can take place on groomed tracks or on natural, ungroomed trails.

The practice originated in the Nordic countries as a practical means of winter mobility and gradually developed into a sport in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Cross-country events entered the Winter Olympic Games in 1924 (men) and 1952 (women), and today the discipline features a World Cup circuit and World Championships alongside national leagues.

There are two main techniques. Classic technique uses a straight kick-and-glide motion on parallel tracks and relies on kick wax or waxless grip. Skate skiing, which emerged later, employs a side-to-side skating stride on wider, groomed trails and requires different skis, boots, and poles. Equipment includes long, narrow skis, compatible bindings, and boots tailored to each style.

Training focuses on aerobic endurance, technique efficiency, and strength. It covers seasonal programs, technique drills, and endurance work. Competitions include sprints, distance races, and relays at national and international levels, with the World Cup and World Championships as premier events, in addition to the Olympic program.

Langlaufen is most popular in the Nordic countries, Russia, and Central Europe, and has a growing following worldwide among recreational athletes. It is valued for accessible winter recreation, fitness, and the opportunity to explore snowy landscapes with relatively low environmental impact when practiced on prepared trails and sustainable facilities.