The three main techniques in classical cross country skiing (double poling: DP, double poling with kick: DK; diagonal stride: DS) are characterized by different coordination patterns and by a different involvement of the upper and lower limbs in producing the force needed for propulsion. The aim of this study was to compare the cost of locomotion between these techniques on flat and uphill conditions.

Ten cross country skiers were asked to ski with roller skis on a large treadmill at a speed of 10 km/h and at slopes from 0° to 4°. The net cost of locomotion (C, above resting values) was calculated based on values of oxygen uptake (at steady state) and of blood lactate concentration (La), as measured at the end of each stage.

C was found to increase linearly with slope for all techniques (from about 2-3 J/m kg on flat to about 6 J/m kg at 4°) and DP was found to be the most economical technique at very low inclines (< 2°); however, when the slope increases DP becomes less economical than DK and DS. This could be attributed to the larger La contribution, in DP compared to DK and DS, due to the high levels of upper limbs force required by this technique.

The resistive forces due to air drag are not taken into account in this study: larger values of C should be expected in "ecological conditions" and further differences should be observed, especially at higher speed or in wind condition, based on differences in projected frontal area between techniques.