Effects of Body Weight on Ski Jumping Performances under the New FIS Rules (P3)

Abstract

Based on the results of several different experiments, it has been concluded that the weight of a ski jumper is crucial in performing a long ski jump. In response to this conclusion, many of the best ski jumpers in the world began dieting to reduce their weight, resulting in many underweight athletes and some incidents of anorexia. In order to deal with this problem the International Ski Federation (FIS) introduced a new rule where the ski length is determined by both the jumper’s height and weight. An athlete with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 20 must reduce the length of his or her skis.