Design of a Test Ergometer for Leg Strength and Power Measurement in Skiers

Abstract

This technical report describes the design of an ergometer system for testing and training leg power for skiing. The testing system includes a force plate, computer hardware and software, and a multipurpose inclined sled. It measures muscular force, work, and power output during skiing movements. The test protocol is based on the biomechanical and physiological nature of both Alpine and freestyle mogul skiing events. Anaerobic testing included force, velocity, work, and power measures with an emphasis on specificity of test design. Comparative test results for the 40-sec bicycle ergometer Wingate test yielded correlations of r = 0.62 and 0.6 for average work and power output. Interpretation of these power relationships is based on the differences between motion specificity mechanics of the two tests. The system design is based on the simulation of skiing movements and measurement of lower extremity muscular forces required for both Alpine and freestyle mogul events. The primary application of the ergometer is to provide a highly specific measurement system for ski training and testing.