A new biomechanical measurement and testing method for turns in alpine skiing

We have measured electromyographic (EMG) signals from four left leg muscles: m.rectus femoris (m.r.f.), m.vastus lateralis (m.v.l.), m.vastus medialis (m.v.m.) and m.biceps femoris (m.b.f.) and ground reaction force below ski boots, during performance of wedge turns. Standard and carving skis were used and two types of wedge turns were performed, the Croatian and the Austrian variant. Video recordings were used to monitor kinematics. EMG signals and ground reaction forces were compaired for both types of skis and both types of turns. The least strain develops while performing the Austrian variant of the wedge turn using carving skis. These results may have implications for the use of this type of skis in teaching basic skiing techniques.