Skate skiing is much more technique oriented and a much more killer intense workout. You would definitely want to take some lessons. I'm not sure if you can do a traditional stride with skate skis... I do know that's it's very hard to skate on regular skis as the length is not correct for skating, they are too long. With a traditional ski, you can mosey along or do a real workout if they set a track.
Irulan