Training-Related Changes in Force-Power Profiles: Implications for the Skeleton Start.

PURPOSE

Athletes' force-power characteristics influence sled velocity during the skeleton start, which is a crucial determinant of performance. This study characterized force-power profile changes across an 18-month period and investigated the associations between these changes and start performance.

METHODS

Seven elite- and 5 talent-squad skeleton athletes' (representing 80% of registered athletes in the country) force-power profiles and dry-land push-track performances were assessed at multiple time points over two 6-month training periods and one 5-month competition season. Force-power profiles were evaluated using an incremental leg-press test (Keiser A420), and 15-m sled velocity was recorded using photocells.

RESULTS

Across the initial maximum strength development phases, increases in maximum force (F) and decreases in maximum velocity (V) were typically observed. These changes were greater for talent (23.6% and -12.5%, respectively) compared with elite (6.1% and -7.6%, respectively) athletes. Conversely, decreases in F (elite -6.7% and talent -10.3%) and increases in V (elite 8.1% and talent 7.7%) were observed across the winter period, regardless of whether athletes were competing (elite) or accumulating sliding experience (talent). When the training emphasis shifted toward higher-velocity, sprint-based exercises in the second training season, force-power profiles seemed to become more velocity oriented (higher V and more negative force-velocity gradient), which was associated with greater improvements in sled velocity (r = .42 and -.45, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

These unique findings demonstrate the scope to influence force-power-generating capabilities in well-trained skeleton athletes across different training phases. To enhance start performance, it seems important to place particular emphasis on increasing maximum muscle-contraction velocity.