Abstract

One goal of this monograph is to analyze the demands that crosscountry ski racing places on athletes, through evaluation of those factors which may be decisive for racing performance at various race distances. Moreover, the purpose has been to examine how elite racers have trained for the past few years, and thereby compare the requirements of training to those of competi- tion. The explanations of different methods of training are not aimed at a formulation of detailed, general training programs. The intent is rather to provide coaches and athletes with certain basic facts to aid the planning of training. For this reason, the report begins with a relatively thorough overview of the physiological background including sections on oxygen transport; anaerobic capacity; heart capacity; energy courses; neuromuscular function; capability of prolonged work. Further topics are: Liquid replenish- ment; ski technique; studies of elite training; strength training; illness injury-training and racing; quantity of training and amount of training of different forms. Verl.-Info