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Cross-country skiing is an endurance sport popular in Northern Europe, Canada and the USA. Individual races last 12 to 90 minutes for female athletes, and 22 to 140 minutes for the men, involving downhill, uphill and level skiing (Papadopoulou 2011). This is different when comparing distance running and long-distance cycling. Cross-country skiing uses a combination of both upper and lower body muscles. Athletes in endurance sports train for years building their aerobic performance. Elite cross-country skiers show an increased training age compared to athletes from other endurance sports (Papadopoulou 2011). A sport-specific body size and body composition is important in order to maximize athletic performance. Elite cross-country skiers have a lean physique much like distance runners. With the high exercise demands on the body, spot on nutrition is important for performance and endurance in cross-country skiing. Replacing or regenerating hormonal depletion, nervous functions, energy reserves, dehydration and electrolytes transfer, can be accomplished through adequate nutrition (Papadopoulou 2011).
- Papadopoulou SK, Gouvianaki A, Grammatikopoulou MG, Maraki Z, Pagkalos IG, Malliaropoulos N, Hassapidou MN, Maffulli N. Body Composition and Dietary Intake of Elite Cross-country Skiers Members of the Greek National Team. Asian J Sports Med. 2012 Dec;3(4):257-66.