Biomechanical analysis of the "running" vs. "conventional" diagonal stride uphill techniques as performed by elite cross-country skiers.

Abstract Purpose To compare biomechanical aspects of a novel “running” diagonal stride (DSRUN) with conventional diagonal stride (DSCONV) skiing techniques performed at high speed. Methods Ten elite Italian male junior cross-country skiers skied on a treadmill at 10 km/h and 10° incline utilizing both variants of the diagonal stride technique. The 3-dimensional kinematics of the body, poles, and roller skis; the force exerted through the poles and foot plantar surfaces; and the angular motion of the leg joints were determined. Results Compared to DSCONV, DSRUN demonstrated shorter cycle times (1.05 ± 0.05 s vs. 0.75 ± 0.03 s; p Conclusions Our findings demonstrated that DSRUN is characterized by more rapid propulsion, earlier leg extension, and a greater range of motion of knee joint extension than DSCONV. Further investigations, preferably on snow, should reveal whether DSRUN results in higher acceleration and/or higher peak speed.