Sprint kayak is a competitive sport in which the ability to generate propulsion through efficient kayaking locomotion, which involves technique and power, is essential for performance. The technique predominantly utilizes upper-body muscles in the dynamic movement. However, studies have illustrated that cyclic leg movement is crucial as well. Several studies have investigated the kinetics of the paddle, while few studies have examined kinetics in the footrest and seat. These forces are essential as well, as forces produced by the paddlers must travel through the seat and footrest to be translated from force to velocity. Several studies have investigated kayak kinetics and kinematics through on-ergometer testing, while only a few have investigated these factors in the ecological conditions on the water. Studies have determined that the physiological responses with on-ergometer testing accurately simulate the physiological response of on-water kayaking. However, a few studies have suggested that the biomechanical response may differ between the two conditions. This PhD project's overall aim was initiated to investigate the kinematics and kinetics of on-water sprint kayaking. Study I investigated the kinematics of on-water and on-ergometer kayaking and differences in stroke rate. Study II developed a force-sensitive footrest and seat that could be utilized on the water. Finally, Study III investigated leg force in relation to performance in on-water kayaking in a team of elite kayakers. In summary, Study I demonstrates that on-water and on-ergometer kayaking differs in the elbow, shoulder, and knee kinematics. Concurrently, a significantly higher stroke rate was observed during a 2-min all-out effort on the ergometer than on the water. Study II developed, designed, and tested a device that measures forces applied to the footrest during on-water kayaking. The developed seat presents unacceptable values of hysteresis and system weight. Therefore, it must be redesigned if it is to be utilized further in research and testing. The developed seat was not included in the Study II. Study III has demonstrated that sprint kayakers exhibit a positive relationship between leg forces and velocity. The present thesis provides the first kinematic comparison of on-water and on-ergometer kayaking. Furthermore, it the first to provide on-water leg force data from a team of elite kayakers.
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