The study analyzes the age-specific explosive strength rating test data including the maximal push-off (ground response) force (Fmax), maximal push-off force time (Tmax) and force gradient (Jabs= Fmax/ Tmax) in the cross-country skiers` ontogenesis. The study found that the maximal push-off force, its time and force gradient normally grows in the period of 11 to 22 years of age in the pubertal to adult life period. The force progress peak point may be fixed when no statistically significant difference is found by the subsequent tests. It was found that since 23-28 years of age, in the early adulthood period, the maximal push-off strength of the lower limbs tend to sag with the further (albeit often statistically insignificant) drop in the push-off time to secure further growth of the force gradient that normally comes to its peak by 26 years of age. The 27-28+ year-old cross-country skiers were diagnosed with the maximal push-off force sagging and push-off time growth trends associated with falls in the force gradient.
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