This study aimed to investigate the physical fitness parameters of elite Chinese male canoe slalom athletes and explore the corresponding training strategies. Eight elite male slalom kayakers from the Chinese national team were selected as research subjects. The following parameters were measured: age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), arm span, upper arm circumference, body fat percentage, maximum oxygen uptake, heart rate, blood lactic acid level, upper limb strength, and 300-m linear speed in flat water. Compared with elite international male slalom athletes, elite Chinese male slalom athletes had lower values for age, height, weight, BMI, arm span, and upper arm circumference, while body fat percentage, bench push, and bench pull values were greater, and the 300 m straight-line speed in flat water was slower. From an athlete development and physical training perspective, elite Chinese male slalom athletes should prioritize the accumulation of competitive experience instead of increasing training years in order to swiftly reach top international standards. Additionally, these athletes should manage their body fat percentage and improve their aerobic capacity, paddling skills, mechanical work, and linear speed in flat water.
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