Stakning

Stakning is a cross-country skiing technique in which the skier propels forward exclusively with the poles, transferring power through the arms, shoulders and core while the skis glide on the snow. The term comes from Scandinavian languages and is commonly translated as double poling in English. It is used within the classical discipline but can also appear in skate skiing contexts as a tactical or sprinting move.

The technique involves a coordinated pole plant and synchronous push from both hands, combined with upper-body rotation and a forward lean to maximize force application. Proper timing, strong core musculature and efficient weight transfer are important to maintain speed and conserve energy. On flat or gently rolling terrain, stakning is often faster than alternating kick-and-glide when skiers have sufficient upper-body strength.

Equipment and waxing choices may be adapted for extended stakning. Ski preparation can prioritize glide and stability over kick grip; some athletes use gripless or klister-waxed skis when planning to double-pole entire sections. Pole length is typically longer for double poling than for diagonal stride, supporting greater leverage.

In competition, stakning is a legal tactic in classical races, and its increased use—sometimes across entire courses—has influenced course design and race strategy. Coaches and athletes balance its efficiency on specific terrain with the greater fatigue placed on the upper body compared with techniques that distribute work to the legs.