How Technique-Specific VO2 Max Affects Racing Performance

The Science of Skiing

Mon, Jul  24, 2006 - By Jenny Ryan, Phil Watts & Randy Jenson, NMU

Jenny Ryan (Northern Michigan University Assistant Nordic Ski Coach) and her colleagues Phil Watts and Randy Jenson recently gave a presentation of original research at the International Congress on Science and Nordic Skiing in Vuokatti, Finland about how technique-specific VO₂ Max can impact overall cross country ski performance.

You can read Jenny's research findings here: Changes in Technique-Specific VO₂ Max and Competitive Performance in Collegiate Cross-Country Skiers, a one-page PDF file.

Here's a summary I've written:

Five male and five female collegiate cross country ski racers had their max V0₂ measured while (1) skating and (2) doublepoling on a rollerski treadmill. This set of tests were performed just prior to race season and again at the end of race season.

The test results were compared to each individual’s performance, determined by their USSA Points.

The results showed that women had a statistically significantly increase in both their doublepoling VO₂ max and their USSA performance between the two time periods. Male athletes did not see a significantly increase in either doublepoling or their performance. There were no significant differences for either group with skating V0₂ max.

The results suggest improving V0₂ max associated with doublepoling can improve race performance.

What does this mean for your training? It suggests that doing V0₂ max doublepole workouts (e.g., 4 x 3:00 to 4:00 doublepole intervals at 90% of your max heart rate or higher) can benefit your overall skiing performance.

Phil Watts is Professor of Exercise Physiology and Randy Jenson is Professor in Exercise and Sport Science at NMU. The International Congress on Science and Nordic Skiing was held June 18-20, 2006.

  -- Mike Muha