​There are two basic techniques in cross-country skiing: the classic technique, in which athletes move their skis parallel to each other machine-groomed tracks in the snow; and the free technique, where skiers propel themselves in a manner similar to speed skating, pushing off with the edge of their skis. At the 1st Winter Youth Olympic Games there will be a Women's Sprint Free Technique and a Women's 5km Classic. Men will compete in a Sprint Event and a 10km Classic. For the first time ever there will also be a mixed Cross-Country / Biathlon Mixed Team Relay, which will combine cross-country skiing (free technique) with rifle marksmanship. The relayteams will consist of four athletes: one woman and one man each fromthe disciplines Cross-Country Skiing and Biathlon.

More about Cross Country Skiing on www.olympic.org