Multi-Planar Jump Performance in Speed Skating Athletes: Investigating Interlimb Differences in an Asymmetrical Sport

Elite speed skaters are exposed to asymmetric lower limb loading consequent the unidirectional turns inherent sport. This presents a unique model study effects of sport-specific on interlimb differences in mechanical muscle function. study, therefore, examined baseline asymmetries multi-directional jump tests elite using cross-sectional design. Thereafter, participants were monitored longitudinally bilateral countermovement (CMJ) quantify function throughout competitive season. Pre-season testing included single leg lateral (JumpLat) and forward horizontal (JumpHorz) attached robotic linear position encoder, along with CMJ dual force plate system. From baseline, monitoring was conducted 24-week Within-limb changes right vs left concentric impulse (CMJCon) eccentric deceleration (CMJEcc) assessed mixed model. No systematic found at (p = 0.33–0.98) between-test agreement dominance poor (Kappa −0.17–0.33). Furthermore, there no time observed for CMJCon (fixed effect 0.01 N*s) small decrease CMJEcc −0.35 N*s, p 0.01). These data suggest that even sport asymmetrical loading, output remain stable group level. However, occurring individual athlete level may be meaningful performance injury.