Frequently Asked Questions
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About the Sport of Biathlon
What is biathlon?
Biathlon is an Olympic winter sport which combines competitive cross-country skiing and small-bore rifle marksmanship. The word biathlon comes from the Greek word meaning “two contests”. Biathlon events are described as 'competitions', rather than 'races', because these competitive events combine two competitive activities, rather than just a race.
Originating thousands of years ago, biathlon is thought to be based on winter hunting skills. It has historically been used as a Scandinavian military exercise, however, biathlon has now evolved into an exciting, high-paced winter sport.
Several other competition forms combine movement and shooting - ski archery, snowshoe biathlon, running and shooting, and disabled biathlon - and are normally included in the general category of biathlon. But biathlon (on cross country skis and with rifles) is the most watched winter sport in many parts of Europe, with well over 50,000 people attending World Cup events.
Biathlon presents a demanding challenge for biathletes by combining two contradictory disciplines- skiing and shooting- in the same competition. Cross-country racing requires intense, sustained physical exertion over an extended period of time. In contrast, shooting demands extremely fine control and stability. When athletes arrive at the shooting range, they must shoot at a very small target with a racing heartbeat and heaving chest. The clock is always running even while they are shooting.
Originating thousands of years ago, biathlon is thought to be based on winter hunting skills. It has historically been used as a Scandinavian military exercise, however, biathlon has now evolved into an exciting, high-paced winter sport.
Several other competition forms combine movement and shooting - ski archery, snowshoe biathlon, running and shooting, and disabled biathlon - and are normally included in the general category of biathlon. But biathlon (on cross country skis and with rifles) is the most watched winter sport in many parts of Europe, with well over 50,000 people attending World Cup events.
Biathlon presents a demanding challenge for biathletes by combining two contradictory disciplines- skiing and shooting- in the same competition. Cross-country racing requires intense, sustained physical exertion over an extended period of time. In contrast, shooting demands extremely fine control and stability. When athletes arrive at the shooting range, they must shoot at a very small target with a racing heartbeat and heaving chest. The clock is always running even while they are shooting.
What does it take to be a competitive biathlete?As stated above, biathlon presents a demanding challenge for athletes by combining the two contradictory disciplines of skiing and shooting. Highly competitive biathletes must have incredible strength and cardio-stamina, as well as a disciplined mind, keen eyes, and steady hands.
For a look inside an Olympic biathlete's training routine, check out this video. |
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What type of rifle is used in biathlon?Biathlon rifles are specially designed to be lightweight, ergonomic, rugged, and precise. They are built to comply with technical regulations for weight and size according to competition sanctioning bodies.
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How do I join Nordic Sports PEI?
Before participating in any of our programs, you must first join Nordiq Canada. The cost to join Nordiq Canada varies depending on whether you are registering as a coach, official, supporter, or athlete, and athlete fees vary according to age and competition level.
For more information, visit one of the pages linked below.
For more information, visit one of the pages linked below.
What is the Nordic Sports PEI Competitive Program?
Nordic Sports PEI is open to all levels of athletes from beginners through experienced and all levels of participation goals. Our competitive program involves frequent training sessions throughout the year. Nordic Sports PEI teams are entered in local, regional, national and continental level races.
Do I have to compete to be a member of Nordic Sports PEI?
Of course not! Nordic Sports PEI welcomes all levels of athletes and levels of participation goals. Our recreational program offers monthly training sessions in the off-season and weekly sessions once there is adequate snow on the ground.
We believe that Nordic sports are lifetime sports but being a competitive athlete isn't the only way to participate. Nordiq Canada members include coaches, officials, supporters, volunteers, and organizers. In fact, NSPEI has been supporting the emerging Atlantic Canada Biathlon competition circuit by offering an active officials and coaching development program.
We love to see our community grow. Get in touch with us today to get involved.
We believe that Nordic sports are lifetime sports but being a competitive athlete isn't the only way to participate. Nordiq Canada members include coaches, officials, supporters, volunteers, and organizers. In fact, NSPEI has been supporting the emerging Atlantic Canada Biathlon competition circuit by offering an active officials and coaching development program.
We love to see our community grow. Get in touch with us today to get involved.
