Kinematic Analysis for Improving the Starting Technique in 500-m Speed Skating

Objective: In this study, we analyzed kinematic changes in the start phase of speed skating before and after physical training. Method: We introduced a new strength training program (2017) that was improved in terms of exercise type and intensity [%, one repetition maximum (1RM)] compared with the previous strength training program (2016). The new program was applied to elite speed skating athletes (four males and four females). To determine the improvement in starting technique, we recorded race images during the start phase of the 500-m race held in 2016 and 2017. The race images were collected using five high-speed cameras and kinematic characteristics of the start phase were analyzed by three-dimensional image analysis. Results: The 1RMs were improved by 11% on an average after the strength training. In 2017, records of four out of the eight athletes were shortened in terms of the initial lap time (100 m), and 500-m records were shortened in six athletes. The time to nine strokes was shortened in five athletes, and the ratio of correct kinetic chain was increased or maintained at a high level in six athletes. Conclusion: In this study, the new strength training program (2017), applied to elite speed skating athletes, showed a positive effect on starting technique and reduced the record times.