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Performance-determining physiological factors in the luge start.

Hans-Peter Platzer¹, Christian Raschner, Carson Patterson

¹Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria. hans-peter.platzer@uibk.ac.at

Journal of Sports Sciences

|January 22, 2009

Summary

Luge start performance is crucial. Isometric bench pull strength significantly predicts push-off speed, suggesting its inclusion in athlete testing and recruitment for better luge performance.

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Area of Science:

Sports Science
Biomechanics
Physiology

Background:

The luge start is critical for overall race performance.
Athletes dedicate significant off-season training to enhance starting capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the impact of various physiological factors on luge starting performance.
To determine an optimal physiological test battery for luge athletes.

Main Methods:

Thirteen male Austrian national luge team athletes participated.
A comprehensive test battery assessed balance, jumping, strength (isometric trunk flexion/extension, leg, grip, bench pull/press), and flexibility.
A luge start simulator was used to measure push-off speed.

Main Results:

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Significant correlations were found between several fitness variables and starting speeds (P ≥ 0.049).
Isometric bench pull strength was the strongest predictor, explaining 75.0% of the variance in maximum push-off speed (R² = 0.750).
Flexibility, isometric trunk flexion, and isometric leg strength (at 100° knee angle) did not show significant relationships.

Conclusions:

A physiological test battery for luge athletes should prioritize bench pull, trunk extension, and grip strength.
Isometric bench pull strength is a valuable metric for assessing and potentially recruiting luge athletes.