Roller Ski Training has commenced for 2024.

In 2022 MNSC re-introduced Roller Ski Training, with instructor Barry Field, who is well qualified to conduct ski training and coaching.  He was a founding member of MNSC and provided Club coaching in the 1980’s, then progressed to State and National XC coach and Instructor Director XC Ski for 10 years. He trained and led Biathlon and was National Coaching Director Biathlon for many years, taking the Australian team to Europe each winter to race in World Cups and Europa Cups every winter through the 1980s and 1990s. He is currently Chairman of National Biathlon Coaching Committee, and ongoing Head coach of XC ski teams at two leading Melbourne schools.

Training is conducted on gentle trails at Westerfolds Park, generally on a Saturday or Sunday morning. Sessions run for approximately 60-90 minutes. You need to bring your own ski boots, or hire, suitable for SNS or NNN binding.  Boots may be hired from EMC (Eastern Mountain Centre) in Whitehorse Road, Deepdene or Ajays in Canterbury Road, Heathmont.

You will also need to bring a cycling helmet, and full finger leather gloves (light gardening gloves are fine), also knee protectors if you wish. Barry provides roller skis and poles.

If you are a beginner skier intending to XC ski this winter, or an experienced intermediate skier wishing to improve your classic or freestyle technique, then Barry’s roller ski training should be of interest.

Dependent on numbers, we intend to hold back to back separate sessions for beginners and experienced skiers, to ensure maximum progress for both groups. 

If interested please contact MNSC at skitraining@melbourne-nordic.org.au  to be placed on the email contact list and provided further information.

In 2014-2015 we held the MNSC Junior Nordic Training program for kids 11-17 years old. This involved roller skiing, hill bounding and circuit activities for fitness, prior to the winter ski season.

MNSC also purchased three sets of Skikes used in Junior Training, and MNSC members also bought personal Skikes and participated in informal sessions at Westerfolds Park, Jells Park, and other cycle paths as a means to increase pre-season fitness (and have fun!) The 2015 MNSC Christmas BBQ was held at Westerfolds Park and welcomed fellow Skikers.