Preparticipation Examination in Synchronized Figure Skaters

Abstract

Synchronized Figure Skating has been an increasingly popular discipline within US Figure Skating over the last 25 years. Over 500 teams are registered in the United States, with approximately 5000 athletes participating at sectional Championships in order to advance to the National Championships. World Championships have been held for 10 years, with 2 teams from the USA attending. Little is published regarding the demands of the sport and the characteristics of the athletes. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to describe fitness and anthropometric characteristics of Synchronized figure skaters. METHODS: A retrospective review of data collected during preparticipation examination (PPE) of nationally competitive synchronized figure skaters. The 890 examinations over 15 years included 359 athletes, ranging in age from 7 to 30 yrs (mean = 13.6 yrs) skating in 6 divisions ranging from preliminary to senior. Measurements included body composition, step test, flexibility, and strength. RESULTS: The mean Body Mass Index, calculated from height and weight was 20 lbs/in2. The step test was performed for 4 minutes at 96 beats per minute with the mean 4 minute heart rate at 140 bpm, an increase of 62% over resting. Recovery 3 minutes after stepping was at 6.5% of the resting heart rate. Strength tests and mean results included sit-ups in 60 seconds (35), pushups in 40s (23.4), jump test (mean of 3 trials, 13.4"), grip strength (51# right, 46.9# left). A double leg lowering test was used to assess abdominal muscle strength, scored on a 10 point scale (mean= 6.6). Athletes were found to have muscle tightness in the hamstrings (popliteal angle mean 26°), Hip flexor tightness (lacking hip extension at 16°.) Scapular stabilizer muscles were tested with manual muscle testing on a 10 point scale (mean 7.9; equivalent to fair+). CONCLUSIONS: PPE is essential for medical clearance to participate in sport. Sport specific and functional tests will assist sports medicine professionals to design strength and conditioning programs for individual athletes, teams and define essential elements for the sport in general.