IT’S ABOUT HOW WELL YOU USE IT: SKATING STRIDE IN NOVICE, INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED INLINE SKATERS

Abstract

Adequate skating technique is imperative to roller sports. Characteristics that differ between inline skating competencies have not been addressed. This study assessed skating parameters associated with coaching cues across three levels of experience. Inline-skaters (n=24) were divided into novice, intermediate and advanced groups based on experience. Skate trajectories were captured through 3D analysis as participants skated maximally down a 10 m runway. One-way ANOVA was used to compare differences for the skating parameters between skill levels. Significant differences (P < 0.016) were found for stride-width, recovery, stride-width-recovery and stride-length-recovery and stride rate. Results have implications for delivery of coaching and skating skill development.