Nordic inline skating is also called Nordic blading or cross-skating, and it is the cross-country skiing of roller sports.

Nordic skating, sometimes called cross-skating, is inline skating with special poles to help your skates go faster. Nordic skating uses a technique very similar to the technique that cross-country skiers use. The pole thrusting, which can also be used for cross-country walking, adds extra speed to inline skating, helps to build upper body strength, increases calories burned, and provides a great backup plan for skaters who want to use the poles for extra support and to assist safe stopping.

Whether you are a new or experienced skater looking for an activity or a freestyle skier looking for off-season training, Nordic skating is a good workout for almost all of the major muscle groups.

• Nordic skating can be done on almost any surface, on-road or off-road.
• There are special inline skates for serious Nordic skaters that are like a skate-ski.
• Most other fitness or off-road skates will also work, depending on the skating surface.

As the name suggests, Nordic inline skating activities were developed in Finland. In Germany and Northern Europe popularity is growing because of the range of fitness benefits. At this time, Nordic skating is not a big competitive activity. But many fitness enthusiasts will enjoy the all-around exercise benefits that this discipline has to offer.