Slalom Kayakers Research Articles

The Impact of Sprint Kayak Training Techniques on Preparation for Slalom Kayak Competitions

The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of sprint kayak training techniques on preparation for slalom kayak competitions. The method involved an experimental group and a control group, subjected to different training regimens for six months. The results showed significant improvements in agility, strength, and slalom techniques in the experimental group. The conclusion highlights that incorporating sprint kayak techniques into slalom training can significantly enhance athletes' performance. These findings provide valuable guidance for optimizing training in slalom kayaking.

The Relationship between Stroke Metrics, Work Rate and Performance in Slalom Kayakers

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between work rate, stroke metrics, and performance in whitewater slalom. Twelve Spanish, nationally competitive whitewater slalom kayakers took part in a simulated competition while using an instrumented kayak paddle to record stroke metrics over a simulated race, total duration and sectional splits. Performance time was highly correlated to overall power output (r2 = 0.511, p < 0.001), where kayakers demonstrated a positive pacing strategy with power output significantly decreasing over successive sectional splits (158 ± 40, 112 ± 32 and 65 ± 33 W, p < 0.001). This resulted in an increased stroke duration (p < 0.001), time to peak force (p < 0.001), a decrease in stroke peak force (p < 0.001), and rate of peak force development (p < 0.001) over elapsed time. As such, work rate is deemed an objective metric to monitor performance, prescribe training, and ascertain optimal pacing strategies in canoe slalom.

Morphological Characteristics of European Slalom Canoe and Kayak Paddlers

Morphological Characteristics of European Slalom Canoe and Kayak Paddlers

COMPARISON OF METHODS FOR DETERMINING PERCENTAGE OF BODY FAT ON A SAMPLE OF KAYAKERS AND CANOEISTS – IN SLALOM

Determining body structure in physical culture, sports, but also in sports recreation is one of the ways to check effectiveness of certain training programs and their impact on a percentage of subcutaneous fat and fat-free components. This study was conducted on a sample of 49 kayakers and slalom canoeists (aged 19.9 ± 1.7 years), and the aim was to compare validity of methods for estimating percentage of body fat based on the skinfold measurement method in relation to the bioelectrical impedance method for application in diagnostics within a training process of slalom kayakers and slalom canoeists. The percentage of body fat was determined by methods of determining the percentage of body fat according to Siri (1961), Brozek et al. (1963), Jackson, & Pollock, (1985) and the BIA bioelectrical impedance method. After statistical procedures, correlation analysis revealed a high correlation between the methods: anthropometric methods according to Siri and Brozek, both methods with the Jackson Pollock method, while all three methods have a high level of correlation with the BIA method, while the Wilcoxon test showed that the bioelectrical impedance method had statistically significantly higher values than the method of determining the percentage of body fat according to Siri & Brozek (p <0.001), and significantly lower than the method of determining the percentage of body fat according to Jackson Pollock (p = 0.005). The research showed that in the observed sample of respondents, when it comes to one respondent, a group of respondents, respondents within one sport or an uneven sample of non-athletes, if it is not possible to use some of the more sophisticated BIA methods, a satisfactory method could be the skinfold measurement method.

Using a kayak paddle power-meter in the sport of whitewater slalom

The purpose of this paper was to demonstrate the use of a kayak-paddle power-meter to enhance scientific understanding, quantification of athlete assessment and training prescription in slalom kayaking. Data was collected from a continental-championship race, in addition to the author’s work, which included testing and prescribing training for elite athletes preparing for national and international competition. Results indicate that work rate varies considerably over a competition run (CV=74.4-80.5 %). Intra-athlete performance between two competition runs of one of the leading competitors differed by 1.1% or 0.94 s, while power output decreased by 9.0 % for the fastest run due to an increase in number of steering strokes (11 vs 3). Turning strokes had greater impulse (208 vs 94 N∙s), peak force (362 vs 321 N), and a lower rate of peak force development (810 vs 1925 N∙s-1). Methods to identify biomechanical/technical issues via analysis of force profiles per stroke exhibit bilateral comparisons of strength, while quantification of physical and physiological capability is determined through power output. Training zones are categorised into seven zones (Easy, Threshold, Critical Power, Speed Endurance, Speed and Strength) enabling coaches and athletes to implement specific training programmes targeting key facets of performance. The importance of testing venue is established where river technicality grade (I, II and IV) showed power output at the onset of blood lactate to be 120, 90, and 84 W, respectively. This paper thus supports the efficacy of using a paddle power-meter to enhance scientific understanding of slalom kayak racing through real-world competition analysis capability along with enabling the quantification of training prescription and monitoring based around work rate capability during sport specific testing, in conjunction with technical, physical and physiological qualities.

Is the aerobic power a delimitating factor for performance on canoe slalom? An analysis of Olympic Slovak canoe slalom medalists and non-Olympics since Beijing 2008 to Rio 2016

Information regarding the aerobic power on canoe slalom performance is scares. Moreover, the comparison of maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) via specific and non-specific ergometer for slalom kayakers may improve training prescription and controlling over Olympic cycles. Lastly, it is still unknown to what extent the VO2max delimitate the high performance in this sport. To test this perspective, a highly qualified sample is desired. In overall statistics, Slovakian athletes gathered 14 Olympic medals over the last sixteen years. Therefore, the main aim of this study is to compare the aerobic power of Olympic medallists and Non-Olympic Slovakian kayakers via specific and non-specific evaluations from Beijing 2008 to Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games. Forty-two male canoe slalom athletes from Slovak national team were evaluated between the years 2006 and 2016. Slovakian athletes were tested for specific (i.e. paddling ergometer) and non-specific (i.e. treadmill) incremental protocols for VO2max determination. Over the last three Summer Olympic Games, the VO2max of Slovakian Olympic medallists was consistently lower than most of the Slovakian team. Moreover, disregarding the medallist characteristic or the moment, Slovakian kayakers presented higher VO2max on treadmill (57.7±6.8 mL.kg-1.min-1) when compared to paddle ergometer (46.9±6.5 mL.kg-1.min-1) (p=0.000; ES=1.6). Based on the collected data over the last ten years, we suggest that although aerobic power may play a relevant and indirect role on performance of slalom kayakers, does not delimitate the high performance in this sport.

Can the elite slalom kayaker’s performance be correlated with anthropometric, nutritional, genetic, psychological as sleep traits?

Abstract AIMS The aims of this study were to investigate and characterize the anthropometric, nutritional, genetic, psychological and sleep variables of slalom kayakers, and to verify the correlation of these variables with the slalom kayakers’ performance. METHODS Ten elite Brazilian team slalom kayakers participated of this study. Nutritional analysis was made by the Food Record (three days), 24 Hour Dietary Recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire. The ACE I/D, AGTMet235Thr, ACTN3R577X and BDKRB2+9/-9 were genotyped for genetic profile. The Profile of Mood States (POMS) and Sports Competition Anxiety Test (SCAT) were applied to investigate the psychological variables. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleep Scale (ESS) and Morningness-eveningness questionnaire (MEQ) were used for sleep traits analysis. Performance trials were performed on a white-water course with 24 gates, and finish time was considered as the variable related to performance. RESULTS Significant correlations were obtained between Performance Time Trial and %Fat (r=0.77), Energy (r=-0.75), Protein (r=-0.76), Carbohydrate (r=-0.72), Vitamin B6 (r=-0.87), Vitamin A (r=-0.82), Thiamine (r=-0.77), Riboflavin (r=-0.71), Magnesium (r=-0.86) and Phosphorus (r=-0.74) intake, besides the Fatigue mood domain (r=0.73) and the SCAT score (r=0.67). Athletes genotyped with the I, T, R and +9 alelle also presented better performances. CONCLUSIONSIn summary, the novel results provided by this study reinforce the necessity of considering several aspects during athlete development in order to achieve better performance in competitions.

Novel paddle stroke analysis for elite slalom kayakers: Relationship with force parameters.

This study was divided into two complementary parts. In Part 1, we proposed a novel paddle strokes analysis based on the force signal from a 30-s all-out tethered test; and compared these results with video recordings. In Part 2, we investigated the relationship between force data from the same test with paddle stroke results from both methods. Eleven male elite slalom kayakers (Brazilian national team) were evaluated. The tethered test was conducted for force parameters analysis (peak-force, mean-force, impulse). Video recording analysis was conducted, and the performed strokes (V.NumberPaddle) was counted and frequency (V.FrequencyPaddle) calculated by the V.NumberPaddle divided by 30 (i.e. total time of test). The new method consisted of performed strokes and frequency achievement from a load cell force signal analysis (S.NumberPaddle and S.FrequencyPaddle, respectively). Paired test-t did not show difference between methods results, but significant correlations were only obtained for the number of paddle strokes. Force parameters were only correlated with S.NumberPaddle and S.FrequencyPaddle. Overall, considering the theoretical and practical application, we propose that the new method should be used as an alternative to the video recording.

Aerobic Evaluation in Elite Slalom Kayakers Using a Tethered Canoe System: A New Proposal.

Among other aspects, aerobic fitness is indispensable for performance in slalom canoe. To propose the maximal-lactate steady-state (MLSS) and critical-force (CF) tests using a tethered canoe system as new strategies for aerobic evaluation in elite slalom kayakers. In addition, the relationship between the aerobic parameters from these tests and the kayakers' performances was studied. Twelve male elite slalom kayakers from the Brazilian national team participated in this study. All tests were conducted using a tethered canoe system to obtain the force records. The CF test was applied on 4 d and analyzed by hyperbolic (CFhyper) and linear (CFlin) mathematical models. The MLSS intensity (MLSSint) was obtained by three 30-min continuous tests. The time of a simulated race was considered the performance index. No difference (P < .05) between CFhyper (65.9 ± 1.6 N) and MLSSint (60.3 ± 2.5 N) was observed; however, CFlin (71.1 ± 1.7 N) was higher than MLSSint. An inverse and significant correlation was obtained between MLSSint and performance (r = -.67, P < .05). In summary, MLSS and CF tests on a tethered canoe system may be used for aerobic assessment of elite slalom kayakers. In addition, CFhyper may be used as an alternative low-cost and noninvasive method to estimate MLSSint, which is related with slalom kayakers' performance.

All-out Test in Tethered Canoe System can Determine Anaerobic Parameters of Elite Kayakers.

The aims of this study were to use a specific all-out 30-sec tethered test to determine the anaerobic parameters in elite kayakers and verify the relationship between these results and sports performance. Twelve elite slalom kayakers were evaluated. The tethered canoe system was created and used for the all-out 30-sec test application. Measurements of peak force, mean force, minimum force, fatigue index and impulse were performed. Performance evaluation was determined by measuring the time of race in a simulated race containing 24 gates on a white-water course. Blood was collected (25-µl) for analysis of lactate concentration at rest and at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10-min intervals after both the all-out test and the simulated race. The Pearson product moment correlation shows a inverse and significant relationship of peak force, mean force and impulse with time of race. Blood lactate concentrations after the all-out test and the simulated race peak at same time (4 min). Additionally, no interaction was visualized between time and all-out test/simulated race for blood lactate concentrations (P <0.365). These results suggest a relationship between the parameters of the all-out test and performance. Thus, the tethered canoe system is a useful tool for determining parameters that could be used in training control of slalom kayakers.

Anaerobic threshold and critical velocity parameters determined by specific tests of canoe slalom: Effects of monitored training

Summary Objectives The aims of study were to determine the anaerobic threshold (AT) and critical velocity (CV) parameters using specific test for canoe slalom and verify the effects of 7-weeks of monitored training on these parameters. Methods Well-trained kayakers were submitted to specific tests on a lake before and after training. The AT was determined by a progressive kayak “shuttle” exercise (50-m course, 3 min/stage, 5.0–9.5 km.h −1 ). The blood lactate (BLC) was determined after each stage and AT was obtained using visual inspection and the intersection of the bi-segmental linear regressions. The CV protocol consisted of four maximal paddling exercises (150–600 m). The slope and y-intercept of the ‘distance vs. time’ model were CV and anaerobic paddling capacity (APC). The training intensity sessions were obtained by the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and the product of daily volume and RPE was the load training. Results The AT and CV were not different in initial tests (6.7 ± 0.2 and 6.8 ± 0.1 km.h −1 ). After program, the AT increased (7.3 ± 0.2 km.h −1 ) without modified CV (6.7 ± 0.0 km.h −1 ). Conclusion The AT protocol detected aerobic capacity increase after 7-weeks of training with small changes in load. Thus, the progressive test seems more appropriate to evaluate the effects of training on slalom kayakers.

All-out 30-s Test Applied In Specific Tethered System Can Predict Performance Of Slalom Kayakers

All-out 30-s Test Applied In Specific Tethered System Can Predict Performance Of Slalom Kayakers

Effect of paddle grip on segmental fluid distribution in elite slalom paddlers

Issues of high levels of muscular asymmetry have been associated with injury risk, and therefore have potential implications for decremental performance at the elite sport level. The aim of this current study was to assess the relationship between the segmental fluid distribution and the paddle grip in elite male and female slalom kayakers and canoeists. Eighty-four world-cup competitors (61 males and 23 females) took part in the study. Impedance analysis was used to assess segmental fluid asymmetry. The effect of paddle grip (loose/fixed hand in kayakers, lower/upper hand in canoeists), morphological dominance (dominant/non-dominant) and discipline (canoe/kayak) were evaluated by repeated measures ANOVA. The findings indicated a significant effect of paddle grip in canoeists on morphological asymmetry in upper limbs (arm of lower paddle hand mean fluid distribution 3.28, s=0.43 litres; arm of upper paddle hand mean fluid distribution 3.19, s=0.41 litres; P=0.000, =0.33). The sternmen demonstrated higher asymmetry between the arms of upper and lower paddle hand (mean 0.11, s=0.04 litres, P=0.000, =0.80) than the bowmen (mean 0.04, s=0.06 litres, P=0.015, =0.44) in double-canoes. Significant morphological asymmetry was found also in kayakers but the effect of paddle grip was not substantial. The use of segmental impedance analysis may be a suitable diagnostic tool for assessing morphological changes, which can be related to paddling training. Likewise muscular asymmetry is associated with injury risk; the evaluation of morphological changes during the training process may be considered by sport trainers and physical therapists.

Morphological characteristics of Olympic slalom canoe and kayak paddlers

Sidney and Shephard (1973) were the first to report on the morphology of slalom paddlers and characterized them as having “a substantial standing height and lean body mass, good general muscle development with particular emphasis on the leg muscles”. The purpose of this study was to analyse the morphological characteristics of Olympic slalom kayak and canoe paddlers to determine whether they possess unique physique or structural characteristics that provide an advantage for their sport. Thirty-one male and 12 female slalom paddlers were measured using a battery of 36 anthropometric dimensions in the 15-day period before competition at the 2000 Olympic Games. Male slalom paddlers were older, lighter, shorter, and leaner than previously reported slalom paddlers and had similar height and weight to a reference population of non-athletes. Compared with Olympic sprint paddlers, male slalom paddlers were older, lighter and shorter, and had similar body fat and almost identical proportionality characteristics. Female slalom paddlers were taller, lighter, older, and less fat than those reported previously. They were taller and lighter than the reference population of non-athletes and of similar age and height but lighter and leaner than the Olympic sprint paddlers. While a high brachial index was reported for both male and female slalom paddlers, the Best male paddlers (those ranked in the top 10 placings) were more compact, had smaller proportional hip girth, and showed a tendency for smaller proportional hip breadth but a larger proportional waist girth than the Rest (those not ranked in the top 10 placings). Changes to the technical aspect of the events and to competition rules and the nature and approach to training were explored as possible reasons for some of these differences. We outline the contribution this research makes to talent identification and highlight the need for further research.

Bioenergetics of a Slalom Kayak (K1) Competition

The aim of this study was: i) to compute an energy balance of a slalom kayak competition by measuring the percentage contributions of the aerobic and anaerobic energy sources to total metabolic power (E(tot)); and ii) to compare these data with those obtained, on the same subjects, over a flat-water course covered at maximal speed in a comparable time. Experiments were performed on eight middle- to high-class slalom kayakers (24.8 +/- 8.1 years of age, 1.75 +/- 0.04 m of stature, and 69.8 +/- 4.7 kg of body mass) who completed the slalom race in 85.8 +/- 5.3 s and covered the flat water course in 88.1 +/- 7.7 s. E(tot) was calculated from measures of oxygen consumption and of blood lactate concentration: it was about 30 % larger during the flat water all-out test (1.72 +/- 0.18 kW) than during the slalom race (1.35 +/- 0.12 kW). However, in both cases, about 50 % of E(tot) derives from aerobic and about 50 % from anaerobic energy sources. These data suggest that, besides training for skill acquisition and for improving anaerobic power, some high intensity, cardiovascular conditioning should be inserted in the training programs of the athletes specialised in this sport.

Kayak

The anthropometry and equipment set‐up for sprint (31 male; 11 female) and slalom (12 male; 12 female) kayak paddlers who competed at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney were measured in the 15 day period before competition. This paper provides normative data for equipment set‐up in these sports, as well as information about differences in rigging and paddle dimensions between sprint and slalom kayak paddlers. These differences were consistent for both male and female athletes, with sprint paddlers seated higher and using longer paddles with longer, though narrower, blades (p < 0.0001). Among male sprint paddlers, only minor differences in equipment set‐up were found between competitors ranked in the top 10 places compared to the rest of the field. Considering all male paddlers initially, then sprint paddlers alone, significant (p < 0.01) regression equations were developed for the prediction of foot bar distance (r2 = 0.482 and 0.589 respectively) and hand grip distance (r2 = 0.400 and 0.541 respectively). The process of fine tuning equipment set‐up often requires hours of practice with subjective feedback from the athlete. The normative data presented in this paper should assist coaches with this process as their athletes evolve toward their individual optimum set‐up.

Eskimo roller

Eskimo roller. Actually James C. Sindelar is not an eskimo but an associate professor of electrical engineering at New Hampshire Technical Institute. He wrote the winning entry in the competition, sponsored by the Old Town Canoe Company, advertised in the January issue of physics today; our photograph shows him in the slalom kayak that was awarded as the competition prize.