THE EFFECTS OF TRAINING ON UPPER BODY POWER IN FEMALE CROSS-COUNTRY SKIERS

Abstract

A distinguishing feature of elite cross-country (xc) skiers is their superlative upper body power (UBP). Race points/rankings are highly correlated to UBP, thus it appears that UBP training is an integral component to the success of xc ski racers. Recently, roller board training was shown to be superior for improving UBP when compared to circuit-type resistance training, free-weight training, and specificstrength training. However, a recent innovation in UBP training has been the introduction of the wind machine, and this has gained wide usage by xc skiers. PURPOSE To determine if wind machine training is as effective as roller board training in increasing upper body power in female cross-country skiers. METHODS Forty-four female xc skiers, age 23–59 years, were matched on initial absolute maximal UBP, measured in watts (w), and placed into one of two experimental groups (roller board or wind machine). All subjects underwent eight weeks of progressive UBP training. RESULTS While both groups improved significantly pre-post (p < .05) in mean absolute maximal UBP, t-tests indicated that there was no significant difference (p > .05) between the two groups' improvements. Roller Board: Pre 74.5+30.9, Post 95.9+29.8 w, Wind Machine: Pre 74.5+33.5, Post 99.3+34.3 w. CONCLUSION The wind machine was as effective at enhancing absolute UBP as the roller board. Future research should focus on determining the ideal UBP training program, which may involve combining the use of the wind machine, roller board, and various core and body resistance exercises. Supported in part by OSU H&HP Student Research Grant.