Visual Behavior in Inline Speed Skating: An Eye-Tracking Evaluation for Performance Analysis

This study analyzed oculomotor behavior (fixations and saccades) in 19 competitive inline speed skaters (5 males, 14 females; aged 10-26 years) from the Aragonese Skating Federation (Spain), comparing high-performance (N1) and intermediate (N2) groups. Participants completed optometric assessments and eye-tracking during 200 m time trials on a banked oval track using a Pupil Labs Neon device, with recordings taken before (PRE) and after (POST) intensive training. Results showed visual behavior remained stable overall, but curved segments (C1, C2) required significantly more fixations and saccades than straights. Skaters consistently focused on the inner track line during curves, suggesting an optimized visual strategy. High-performance skaters (N1) demonstrated greater efficiency with fewer fixations and saccades in key segments. After training, N1 skaters showed increased fixations in C1 (p = 0.012) but reduced saccadic velocity (SS: PRE 8.00 deg/s vs. POST 6.82 deg/s; p = 0.030) and length (S1: PRE 3077.41 mm vs. POST 2564.71 mm; p = 0.035) on straights, consistent with fatigue. N1 exhibited different patterns of ocular abilities versus N2 pre- and port-training. Strong binocular coordination was observed (right-left eye correlations ≥ 0.85; p < 0.001). Conclusions indicate that experience enhances visual efficiency, with elite skaters showing more focused gaze patterns. Training-induced fatigue may primarily affect straight segments, reducing saccade speed and length. The finish line served as a consistent visual reference point. These findings highlight the importance of sport-specific visual training and fatigue management in inline speed skating. Future research should address study limitations including small sample size and gender imbalance.