Biomechanical analysis of speed skating 500 m start phase

Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the technique and power of the Korean national athletes and international athletes in the start phase of the 500 m speed skating to improve the performance and to understand the relationship between the biomechanical variables affecting the record. Method The subjects were 8 Korean national athletes (Korean athletes) and 6 international athletes (international athletes). For the three dimensional motion analysis, 5 high-speed cameras were used to capture the 40 m start phase of the athletes participating in the international competition. The variables selected for analysis were the kinematic chain, 100 m net time, time to 9 strokes, horizontal position of center of mass after 2.5 sec, range of motion of trunk, knee, push-off angle, net power output, total power loss. Results The correct kinematic chain ratio of Korean athletes was 61.2%, which was lower than 76.0% of international athletes. The time to 9 strokes was 2.82±0.25 sec for Korean athletes, which was significantly lower than 2.53±0.11 sec for international athletes (p=.001). The range of motion of the push-off angle was 60.15±2.75° for Korean athletes, which was significantly lower than 64.76±2.55° for international athletes (p=.001). The net power output was 887.2±269.9 W for Korean players and 1103±264.1 W for international players (p=.021). The variables related to the 100 m net time were the horizontal position of center of mass after 2.5 sec (r=-.956, p=.001), the net power output (r=-.931, p=.001), and the total power loss (r=-.904, p=.001). Conclusion In order to improve the start performance of Korean athletes, it is necessary to maximize the efficiency of skating through skill training to use the correct kinematic chain. Also power enhancement training is needed to improve leg power because the net power output related with 100 m net time.