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Aspects on muscle properties and use in competitive Alpine skiing
1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Elite skiers rely heavily on anaerobic energy, with significant lactate and glycogen use. While aerobic power is high, it’s not key to success; strong knee extensors are crucial for Alpine skiing performance.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Competitive Alpine skiing presents unique physiological challenges.
- Understanding the elite skier's physiological profile is crucial for training and performance optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the physiological demands of competitive Alpine skiing.
- To outline the physiological characteristics of elite Alpine skiers.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of physiological responses during competitive Alpine skiing disciplines.
- Assessment of physiological markers including heart rate, aerobic power, anaerobic energy contribution, lactate accumulation, and muscle fiber type.
Main Results:
- Maximal heart rate is reached during races; giant slalom demands significant aerobic contribution (75-100% VO2 max).
- Anaerobic energy provision exceeds 50%, leading to substantial plasma and muscle lactate accumulation.
- High glycogen utilization can cause depletion; elite skiers show a preponderance of slow-twitch muscle fibers and increased knee extensor strength for forceful eccentric actions.
Conclusions:
- Success in Alpine skiing is more dependent on anaerobic capacity and specific strength than maximal aerobic power.
- Elite skiers exhibit physiological adaptations, including enhanced eccentric strength and a specific muscle fiber profile, suited to the demands of the sport.