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V2 Skate technique
Level: intermediate level advanced technique

v1 skate techniquenordic V-2 skate techniqueFor skating in flat terrain and fast snow conditions, there's nothing that matches the sensation of the V2 skate technique. With little effort, the legs and arms easily push our glide close to ten feet with each step. Once mastered, some skiers profess of its virtue even in uphill terrain.

The movements of the V2 stand alone from other skate techniques due to its poling frequency and timing. Unlike the V1 technique which has us poling on one side with a skate in between, the V2 uses a double pole push with every skate. While the V1 has a simultaneous pole and foot landing, the V2 is delayed: the foot lands on the snow well after the pole plant and push.

To get a feel of V2 timing and technique, think of a one-footed double pole. The idea is to begin a double pole with one foot off the snow. After you complete the poling, quickly put that foot down, lift up the other foot and pole again. Repeat this sequence until it starts to feel comfortable. The double pole and foot rhythm for the V2 is a double pole (PHOTO 1-2) ---- step (PHOTO 5), double pole (PHOTO 8-9) ---- step, etc. Try to complete the double pole push prior to setting the foot down.

Balancing during the glide portion of the V2 is where many skiers have trouble. When learning this skate, don't try to glide too far before setting the poles back in the snow. The key is planting the poles after the last pole push. Bring your arms forward the plant the poles immediately (PHOTO 5-8).

Another trick to improve balance is to visit Kansas. Remember how Dorothy clicked her heels together in the WIZARD OF OZ and said "There's no place like home"? Go to Kansas by touching your heels together during the start of each double pole push (PHOTO 1 & 9).

The last two phases of the V2 covers power and efficiency. Besides gaining momentum thru powerful skate motions of the feet, poling is often overlooked. Stand upright as you plant the poles (PHOTO 6-8) then push down with a hinging motion at the hips (PHOTO 1 & 9), just as you would in a solo double pole. That upright position prior to the pole push is also the moment that allows your leg muscles to rest. Straighten your legs fully prior to each skate.

 

 

CLASSIC TECHNIQUE: Diagonal Stride; Adjusting Pole Straps; Arm Swing; Double Pole; Kick-Double Pole. CLASSIC UPHILL TECHNIQUE: Classic Uphill Diagonal; Edging; Side Step; Herringbone. DOWNHILLS AND TURNING: Getting up from a fall; Kick Turn; Track Snowplow; Five Tips for the Diagonal Stride; Kick Double Pole. SKATE SKIING: Ten Tips for the V-1; V-2 skate technique; Marathon Skate. ALL AROUND: Stationary Turns; Step Turns. RESOURCES: Nordic Glossary; 20 Q and A; History of Cross Country Skiing

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