PERFORMANCE RELATED TECHNIQUE FACTORS IN OLYMPIC SPRINT KAYAKING

Abstract

A sprint kayaking specific deterministic model was used to identify key performance related technique factors using data from 12 international-level kayakers. There was large variability in the strength of the between-factor relationships across the group. The pull phase was split into 3 components with the 1st phase contributing the most to increases in boat velocity and the 3rd phase causing a decrease in velocity. The propulsive impulse had the largest influence on velocity, but the magnitude of the impact was moderated by blade slip. Large propulsive impulses in the 3rd phase of the pull were associated with larger decreases in velocity. The results show that the model can be used to identify key technique factors on an individual level, although the use of the model should be confirmed on additional kayakers before being used in an applied setting by practitioners.