Framework for In-Field Analyses of Performance and Sub-Technique Selection in Standing Para Cross-Country Skiers

Abstract

Our aims were to evaluate the feasibility of a framework based on micro-sensor technology for in-field analyses of performance and sub-technique selection in Para cross-country (XC) skiing by using it to compare these parameters between elite standing Para (two men; one woman) and able-bodied (AB) (three men; four women) XC skiers during a classical skiing race. The data from a global navigation satellite system and inertial measurement unit were integrated to compare time loss and selected sub-techniques as a function of speed. Compared to male/female AB skiers, male/female Para skiers displayed 19/14% slower average speed with the largest time loss (65 ± 36/35 ± 6 s/lap) found in uphill terrain. Female Para/AB skiers utilized DP, DK, and DIA, 61/43%, 15/10%, and 25/47% of the distance at low speeds, respectively, while the corresponding numbers for male Para/AB skiers were 58/18%, 1/13%, and 40/69%. At higher speeds, female Para/AB skiers utilized DP and OTHER, 26/52% and 74/48% of the distance, respectively, while corresponding numbers for male Para/AB skiers were 29/66% and 71/34%. This indicates different speed thresholds of the classical sub-techniques for Para than AB skiers. The framework provides a point of departure for large-scale international investigations of performance and related factors in Para XC skiing.

Preparing for snow-sport events at the Paralympic Games in Beijing in 2022: recommendations and remaining questions

“…In Para XC skiers, it has been shown that the varying terrain leads to substantial variation in speed, which is regulated by the selection of pacing strategies, subtechniques, and related kinematic patterns. 5 6 While this has not yet been investigated for Para XC skiers and biathletes, the aerobic energy contribution during races is expected to be similar as in their able-bodied counterparts, and in the range of 80%–95%. 7–10 Therefore, performance is mainly determined by a high peak oxygen uptake (V̇O 2peak ), the performance maximum rate of oxygen (V̇O 2max) and exercise efficiency.…”

“…Para XC skiing and biathlon are endurance sports, in which athletes compete in race courses consisting of undulating terrain with uphill, flat and downhill segments. In Para XC skiers, it has been shown that the varying terrain leads to substantial variation in speed, which is regulated by the selection of pacing strategies, subtechniques, and related kinematic patterns 5 6. While this has not yet been investigated for Para XC skiers and biathletes, the aerobic energy contribution during races is expected to be similar as in their able-bodied counterparts, and in the range of 80%–95% 7–10.…”

Sensor Technology for Sports Monitoring

“…The topic of article [ 9 ] was related to para-athletic cross-country (XC) skiing. The paper's aims were to evaluate the feasibility of a framework based on micro-sensor technology for, firstly, in-field analyses of performance and, secondly, sub-technique selection in the field by using it to compare different parameters between elite standing para-athletic and able-bodied XC skiers during a classical skiing race.…”