Aerobic metabolic requirements of simulated cross-country skiing

Abstract This study evaluated the aerobic metabolic requirements of simulated crosscountry skiing. Five male subjects exercised on a cross-country skiing machine at 12 different arm and leg resistances and movement frequencies. Oxygen consumption (V˙O2) ranged from 21.6 to 44.4 ml kg−1min−1. The V˙O2increased significantly (p< 0.05) as the frequency of limb movement was increased. These data suggest that simulated cross-country skiing places a significant demand on the aerobic metabolic system and as such is a viable alternative to conventional cardiovascular exercise modalities.