Construction of a physical fitness evaluation index system and model for high-level freestyle skiing aerials athletes in China

Abstract

Objective This study aims to enhance the competitive level of Chinese freestyle skiing aerials athletes by developing a specialized physical fitness evaluation index system and model tailored for high-level Chinese athletes. This system intends to provide theoretical references and training monitoring schemes in preparation for the 25th Milan Winter Olympics. Methods A study was conducted on 29 high-level Chinese freestyle skiing aerials athletes. Physical fitness test indexes were selected using a literature review, expert interviews, and questionnaire surveys, and athletes were tested. Athletes were ensured to be in optimal physical condition before testing. Based on the test results, the representative indexes of the evaluation system are finally determined by combining R-type clustering analysis, multiple linear regression analysis. Determine index weights through weight questionnaires and normalization, and develop evaluation standards through methods such as percentile counting and weighted scoring. Results Physical fitness evaluation system for Chinese freestyle skiing aerialists includes three aspects: evaluation index, index weight, and evaluation standard. The evaluation indexes include 3 first-level, 11 second-level, and 11 third-level indexes of body form, physiological function, and physical quality. In the evaluation weight, physical quality is ranked first, and physiological function and body form rank second and third, respectively. The evaluation standard consists of a scoring evaluation standard and a rating evaluation standard. Based on the index system, this study constructs the general and ideal physical fitness model of China’s high-level freestyle aerials athletes. Conclusion The constructed physical fitness evaluation system effectively represents physical fitness development status of high-level freestyle skiing aerials athletes, providing a basis for creating personalized training plans. The established model serves as a reference for athletes’ physical fitness development objectives.

Physical fitness characteristics of elite freestyle skiing aerials athletes

“…From the overall point of view of energy metabolism of the body, although the technical movements displayed by the athletes during the competition are fast-paced and short in time, athletes need a good anaerobic metabolic system to provide the energy supply. This does not mean that the coaches overemphasize the training of anaerobic metabolic ability while ignoring aerobic metabolism training, because anaerobic ability needs to be based on aerobic ability to highlight the level of sports technique [ 18 ].…”

“…Strength training is an essential component of physical fitness training for freestyle skiing aerials athletes, crucial for enhancing athletic performance and reducing both acute and chronic injuries [ 9 , 18 ]. The enhancement of specific strength, particularly in the hip, knee, ankle joints, and trunk muscles, is key for performing high-quality technical maneuvers and ensuring safe landings [ 19 ].…”

“…Targeted strength training also accelerates the rehabilitation process for injured athletes, facilitating a quicker return to competition [ 21 ]. Additionally, the extended duration of training and competitions, often lasting 2–4 hours with intervals of over 5 minutes between each technical move, places significant demands on athletes’ recovery capabilities, highlighting the need for robust physical conditioning [ 18 , 22 ].…”