Relationship of basic body dimensions to the performance in slalom and downhill
INTRODUCTION: Body height and weight are basic body parameters which influence the performance related to various branches of sports In different ways (Vaverka & Cernosek, 2007).Concerning Alpine skiing, the basic body dimensions are then characterized in relation to motor and physiological parameters (Kolombo, 2002; Neumayer, 2003 and others). Regarding the biomechanics, we can refer to body height influencing air resistance and body weight gravitational force. The aim of the study is to find out whether there are differences in basic body dimensions within the top athletes of downhill and Slalom.
METHODS: The research has been realized with the set of competitors who reach from the 1st to the SO"1 place of final ranking within the world cup 2006/2007 (men and women, Slalom and downhill). Information related body dimensions have been gained via internet and the indexes (BMI, DIF) have been calculated. Basic statistic characteristics and T-test based on SPSS program has been computed.
RESULTS: Statistical significant differences in body weight (slalom 85,24 ± 5,53 kg, downhill 90,93 ±4,10 kg) and weight-height indexes between slalom and downhill have been found by groups of men. Concerning the groups of women, the differences in body weight (slalom 65,51 ± 5,61 kg, downhill 67,24 ± 6,04 kg) are similar features as within groups of men, however, are not Statistical significant. No statistical significant differences between slalom and downhill in the body height groups of men and women have been proven.
DISCUSSION: The results of our research have shown that the body weight of a world's top skier represents an essential factor. The results of our research have shown that the body weight of a world's top skier represents an essential factor in both slalom and downhill. It results from physics and motorics matter of skier's ride both in downhill (importance of speed in direct ride) and slalom (importance of advanced flexibility and skillfulness).
CONCLUSION: The differences within the total world's top competitors of downhill and slalom reflect the fact that the basic body dimensions are necessary to be considered when organizing the process of training as well as preparation of downhill skiers for competitions.
© Copyright 2007 4th International Congress on Science and Skiing. Published by University of Salzburg. All rights reserved.
| Subjects: | |
|---|---|
| Notations: | strength and speed sports |
| Tagging: | Slalom |
| Published in: | 4th International Congress on Science and Skiing |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Salzburg
University of Salzburg
2007
|
| Pages: | 147 |
| Document types: | book |
| Level: | advanced |