JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- Cross-country skiing was first a tool for survival in snow-covered areas to gather food and firewood. It is the oldest form of skiing, and though it emerged from a need for travel, it soon developed as a sport and appeared in the 1924 Winter Olympic Games.
In an effort to encourage members of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson to get out during the winter, the Fit to Fight Cross-Country Ski program offers free ski equipment rentals for service members at the Eagleglen Fitness Park. The equipment issue office is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and closed for holidays.
“Fit to Fight is a resiliency program that may help as an addition to other physical training sessions,” said Tyler Glenn, 673d Force Support Squadron outdoor recreation director. “It’s an alternative resource for the men and women in uniform to get out and enjoy the many different things Alaska has to offer.”
Cross-country skiing is one of the few sports that offers a full-body workout.
“It definitely gives you a chance to get out and enjoy the snow and also get that physical push to get your body moving,” Glenn said.
Though it may be challenging to learn, it’s not impossible and staff are there to help.
“It’s definitely a new skill to acquire but it can be easily learned,” Glenn said. “Our staff does a great job with helping people get fit properly with skis and teaching some basic motions.”
The park offers several miles of groomed trails marked with signs.
“Maps are located at the equipment issue point and all trails lead back to the entrance to make sure no one gets lost,” Glenn said.
Though the Fit to Fight Program has certain hours for equipment rentals, the park is open to all.
For any questions regarding the Fit to Fight Cross Country Ski program, call 552-2023.