A performance analysis of jumps in the speed disciplines of alpine ski racing

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the relationship between take-off angle, take-off speed, landing hill angle to the flight length, in the speed disciplines, among World Cup athletes. Additionally, this study also suggests a way of categorizing types of jumps, and examine the different categories relationship to take-off angle, take-off speed, landing hill angle and flight length. Furthermore, to propose a definition of performance and to analyze performance at the flight phase in jumps, including looking at parameters affecting the flight performance.

Methods: The project included a total of 719 jumps. Data collection occurred from the 2021/2022 season to 2024/2025 season at speed discipline training and race training, all data was collected through video and GNSS (Admos). Descriptive statistic was used to describe the data, multiple linear regression and correlation was utilized to identify variable predictors of flight length and flight performance.

Results: The flight length is described 62 % by take-off angle, take-off speed and landing hill angle. Take-off speed differs significantly between trainings and race trainings based on these results. The jump characteristics was differed in three groups based on landing hill angle: flat, mid and steep. Flight length, take-off angle, take-off speed and landing hill angle describes about 15 % of the flight performance.

Conclusion: This study is the first to investigate the factors affecting flight length and flight performance in alpine skiing jumps. Key findings include that take-off angle, take-off speed, and landing hill angle affects the flight length. Landing hill angle significantly affects take-off angle, flight length, and take-off speed in the different groups. Flight length, take-off angle, take-off speed and landing hill angle does not describe the flight performance significantly. This research conducts a great base for further investigation on performance and characteristics of jumps. This knowledge is valuable for both athletes, coaches, and the academic community. Hence, this thesis can provide new insight and establish a basis for future research and theoretical developments.