0000000000380771
AUTHOR
Magdalena Karczewska-lindinger
Force Generation Profiles of Para-Nordic Sit-Skiers Representing Different Physical Impairments
Abstract Purpose To biomechanically profile force generation connected to the complex role of the trunk in double poling in a representative sample of Para-Nordic sit-skiers. Methods Twelve male World Cup Para-Nordic sit-skiers (sport classes: LW10–12) were skiing on flat snow terrain at submaximal speed of 4.5 m/s (~ 73% maximum speed). 2D video (50 Hz) and pole force analyses (1000 Hz) were performed synchronously, examining angle, force and cycle characteristics to analyse the role of the trunk in generating propulsion. Results LW10–11.5 skiers lost between 21% and 4% propulsive force versus LW12 athletes only due to different geometrics of the trunk and pole angle at an equal axial pole…
Evaluating objective measures of impairment to trunk strength and control for cross-country sit skiing
AbstractIn Paralympic cross-country sit skiing, athlete classification is performed by an expert panel, so it may be affected by subjectivity. An evidence-based classification is required, in which objective measures of impairment must be identified. The purposes of this study were: (i) to evaluate the reliability of 5 trunk strength measures and 18 trunk control measures developed for the purposes of classification; (ii) to rank the objective measures, according to the largest effects on performance. Using a new testing device, 14 elite sit-skiers performed two upright seated press tests and one simulated poling test to evaluate trunk strength. They were also subjected to unpredictable bal…
Simulated skiing as a measurement tool for performance in cross-country sit-skiing
The International Paralympic Committee mandates the development of an evidence-based classification system, which requires a measure of performance. Performance in cross-country sit-skiing is mainly dependent on force generated during the poling phase and is enhanced by trunk flexion–extension movements. Since all sit-skiers have neuromuscular impairment, but different ability to control the trunk, this study aimed to verify if simulated action of poling on an adapted ergometer, together with a cluster analysis, could be used for grouping participants with different impairments according to their performance. On the ergometer, eight male and five female participants performed seven poling c…