Characteristics of elite male and female ski racers

Fifty-four members of the U.S. Ski Team who competed in the alpine, cross-country, or Nordic combined events were studied to learn more about the characteristics of elite ski racers in each of the events. Variables examined were percent body fatness, maximal oxygen uptake, maximal ventilation, isometric knee extension strength, power, agility, balance, and response time. In addition, isokinetic knee extension strength and endurance were measured on the alpine skiers. Cross-country skiers had higher Vo2max adjusted for weight or lean body weight than alpine skiers of the same sex. Male skiers had larger VO2max with or without adjustments for weight or lean body weight than female skiers in the same events. Alpine skiers had significantly more isometric knee extension strength (males = 3078 N, females = 2194 N) and power during the Margaria-Kalamen stair run (males = 1791 W, females = 1131 W) than cross-country skiers of the same sex. Differences in isokinetic knee extension strength at slow rates of contraction (30 degrees/s) between male and female alpine skiers were not significant when strength was expressed as strength x kg LBW-1. Male alpine skiers produced more power and had more isokinetic leg strength x kg LBW-1 at high contraction rates (180 degrees/s) than female alpine skiers.