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  • 1.
    Ainegren, Mats
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Technology and Management, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.
    Carlsson, Peter
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Technology and Management, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.
    Laaksonen, Marko S.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Tinnsten, Mats
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Technology and Management, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.
    The influence of grip on oxygen consumption and leg forces when using classical style roller skis2014In: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports, ISSN 0905-7188, E-ISSN 1600-0838, Vol. 24, no 2, p. 301-310Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of classical style roller skis' grip (static friction coefficients, μ S) on cross-country skiers' oxygen consumption and leg forces during treadmill roller skiing, when using the diagonal stride and kick double poling techniques. The study used ratcheted wheel roller skis from the open market and a uniquely designed roller ski with an adjustable camber and grip function. The results showed significantly (P≤0.05) higher oxygen consumption (∼14%), heart rate (∼7%), and lower propulsive forces from the legs during submaximal exercise and a shorter time to exhaustion (∼30%) in incremental maximal tests when using roller skis with a μ S similar to on-snow skiing, while there was no difference between tests when using different pairs of roller skis with a similar, higher μ S. Thus, we concluded that oxygen consumption (skiing economy), propulsive leg forces, and performance time are highly changed for the worse when using roller skis with a lower μ S, such as for on-snow skiing with grip-waxed cross-country skis, in comparison to ratcheted wheel roller skis with several times higher μ S.

  • 2.
    Ainegren, Mats
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Engineering and Sustainable Development. Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Carlsson, Peter
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Engineering and Sustainable Development.
    Tinnsten, Mats
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Engineering and Sustainable Development.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Work economy of amateur and elite cross-country skiers during treadmill roller skiing2009In: 4th Asia Pacific Congress on Sports Technology, APCST2009, 2009Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study focused on the work economy of cross-country skiers during treadmill roller skiing in the perspectives; skill, age and gender. The study was investigating the external power output from elevating the transported mass against gravity and overcoming the roller skis rolling resistance, and the internal power from measured oxygen uptake and energy consumption. The roller skis rolling resistance was measured with a fixture on the ski-treadmill and the results showed a significant correlation between normal force and rolling resistance. The results also showed that it was only the amateur skiers who significantly differed in work economy among the five studied groups.

  • 3.
    Ainegren, Mats
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Technology and Management, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.
    Carlsson, Peter
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Technology and Management, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.
    Tinnsten, Mats
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Technology and Management, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.
    Laaksonen, Marko S.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Quality Technology and Management, Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics.
    Skiing economy and efficiency in recreational and elite cross-country skiers2013In: Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, ISSN 1064-8011, E-ISSN 1533-4287, Vol. 27, no 5, p. 1239-1252Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The purpose of this study was to investigate and compare skiing economy and gross efficiency in cross-country skiers of different performance levels, ages and genders; male recreational skiers and elite senior and junior cross-country skiers of both genders. The skiers performed tests involving roller skiing on a treadmill using the gear 3 and diagonal stride techniques. The elite crosscountry skiers were found to have better skiing economy and higher gross efficiency (5-18%) compared with the recreational skiers (p < 0.05) and the senior elite had better economy and higher efficiency (4-5%) than their junior counterparts (p < 0.05), whereas no differences could be found between the genders. Also, large ranges in economy and gross efficiency were found in all groups. It was concluded that, in addition to v̇O2peak, skiing economy and gross efficiency have a great influence on the differences in performance times between recreational and junior and senior elite cross-country skiers, as well as between individual skiers within the different categories. Thus, we recommend crosscountry skiers at all performance levels to test not only v̇O2peak, but also skiing economy and efficiency.

  • 4.
    Björklund, Glenn
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Dzhilkibaeva, Natalya
    Gallagher, Caitlin
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV). University of Bath, Bath, UK.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    The balancing act between skiing and shooting – the determinants of success in biathlon pursuit and mass start events2022In: Journal of Sports Sciences, ISSN 0264-0414, E-ISSN 1466-447X, Vol. 40, no 1, p. 96-103Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study aimed to investigate how skiing speed (SS), number of missed targets (MT) and range time (RT) were associated with final rank in biathlon pursuit and mass start competitions. Data were collected from the International Biathlon Union’s database over 17 seasons. Biathletes were categorised into three groups (rank 1–3, G3; rank 4–10, G10; rank 11–20, G20).  Multinomial regression was used to identify odds ratios associated with group rank in both sexes. The only variable found to be consistently related to G3 in both pursuit and mass start was MT (men OR 1.206–1.729 and women OR 1.340–3.124, all p < 0.01). SS during lap four of pursuit and mass start was most strongly related to G3 for both sexes (men OR 0.231–0.094 and women OR 0.339–0.126, all p < 0.001). RT during shooting four in pursuit was most strongly related to G3 compared to G10 and G20 (men OR 1.067; 95% CI, 1.030–1.105 and women OR 1.076; 95% CI, 1.020–1.134, all p < 0.001, respectively). Accordingly, MT was most strongly related to final rank in both sexes, while SS during lap four and last RT was also significant.

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  • 5.
    Björklund, Glenn
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    The Determinants of Performance in Biathlon World Cup Sprint and Individual Competitions2022In: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, E-ISSN 2624-9367, Vol. 4, no March, p. 1-9, article id 841619Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: The present study aimed to determine the association of skiing speed (SS), range time (RT), and the number of missed targets (MT) with rank in sprint and individual biathlon competitions.

    Methods: Data were collected from the International Biathlon Union's database for 17 seasons (2002/2003–2018/2019). Furthermore, the biathletes were divided into three rank groups (G3, rank 1–3; G10, rank 4–10; and G20, rank 11–20). Multinominal regression was used to detect odds ratios associated with group rank for both sexes, separately.

    Results: MT was the only variable that was constantly related to G3 (OR 1.90–6.35, all p < 0.001) for both women and men. SS was associated with G3 in the last lap in the sprint for both sexes (OR 0.46–0.66, all p < 0.001) and RT for standing shooting (OR 1.04–1.14, all p < 0.05).

    Conclusion: These results show that shooting is the fundamental factor for performance in both competitions, but that SS is increasingly important for the last lap in the sprint for both sexes. Further, a fast RT in the standing shooting for women in individual and men in the sprint seems important for improving final rank.

  • 6.
    Björklund, Glenn
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Holmberg, H. -C
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Blood lactate recovery and respiratory responses during diagonal skiing of variable intensity2011In: European Journal of Sport Science, ISSN 1746-1391, E-ISSN 1536-7290, Vol. 11, no 5, p. 317-326Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aims of the study were to investigate blood lactate recovery and respiratory variables during diagonal skiing of variable intensity in skiers at different performance levels. Twelve male cross-country skiers classified as elite (n=6; VO2max=73±3 ml. kg-1. min-1) or moderately trained (n=6; VO2max=61±5 ml. kg-1. min-1) performed a 48-min variable intensity protocol on a treadmill using the diagonal stride technique on roller skis, alternating between 3 min at 90% and 6 min at 70% of VO2max. None of the moderately trained skiers were able to complete the variable intensity protocol and there was a difference in time to exhaustion between the two groups (elite: 45.0±7.3 min; moderately trained: 31.4±10.4 min) (P&lt;0.05). The elite skiers had lower blood lactate concentrations and higher blood base excess concentrations at all 70% workloads than the moderately trained skiers (all P&lt;0.05). In contrast, VE/VO2 and VE/VCO2 at the 70% VO2max workloads decreased independently of group (P&lt;0.05). Partial correlations showed that VO2max was related to blood lactate at the first and second intervals at 70% of VO2max (r=-0.81 and r=-0.82; both P&lt;0.01) but not to VE/VO2, VE/VCO2 or the respiratory exchange ratio. Our results demonstrate that during diagonal skiing of variable intensity, (1) elite skiers have superior blood lactate recovery compared with moderately trained skiers, who did not show any lactate recovery at 70% of VO2max, suggesting it is an important characteristic for performance; and (2) the decreases in respiratory exchange ratio, VE/VO2, and VE/VCO2 do not differ between elite and moderately trained skiers.

  • 7.
    Brandts, Maxime
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV). Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany.
    Staunton, Craig A.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Sloof, Lucien
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Björklund, Glenn
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    The effect of rifle carriage on skiing performance and angular kinematics in biathletes2022Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Aim

    To assess the effect of rifle carriage on skiing performance and angular kinematics in biathletes,and whether the rifle’s effect on angular kinematics could explain its effect on skiing performance, under ecologically valid conditions.

    Methods

    Twenty-nine biathletes (11 females, 18 males) performed two maximum effort skiing time-trials on snow, once with and once without rifle. During time-trials, biathletes wore a three-dimensional motion analysis system to measure maximum angle, minimum angle and range of motion of knee, hip and elbow flexion. A two-way mixed model analysis of variance and multilevel linear model were used to assess the effect of rifle carriage on skiing performance and angular kinematics respectively. In case of a significant effect, a Pearson correlation coefficient was calculated to assess the relation between the rifle’s effect on the respective angular measure and the rifle’s effect on skiing speed.

    Results

    Skiing performance was impaired with rifle compared to without rifle (P<.001; ƞ2p=0.04). No effect of rifle carriage was observed on any angular measure, except for maximum elbow flexion(P=.03; Cohen f 2<0.01). Maximum elbow flexion was reduced with rifle compared to without rifle (mean difference 11.9±37.6°). Pearson correlation coefficient revealed a positive correlation between the rifle’s effect on maximum elbow flexion and its effect on skiing speed (r=0.19; P=.04).

    Practical application

    The results demonstrate the negative impact of rifle carriage on biathlon skiing performance and suggest that maximum elbow flexion plays a role. Therefore, upper body contributions, elbow flexion angles in particular, might be of interest for biathlon coaches.

  • 8.
    Carlsson, Lars
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Lind, Britta
    Royal Inst Technol KTH, Sch Technol & Hlth, Stockholm, Sweden .
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Berglund, Bo
    Karolinska Inst, Dept Internal Med, S-10401 Stockholm, Sweden.
    Brodin, Lars-Åke
    Royal Inst Technol KTH, Sch Technol & Hlth, Stockholm, Sweden .
    Holmberg, Hans-Christer
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Enhanced systolic myocardial function in elite endurance athletes during combined arm-and-leg exercise2011In: European Journal of Applied Physiology, ISSN 1439-6319, E-ISSN 1439-6327, Vol. 111, no 6, p. 905-913Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim here was to employ color tissue velocity imaging (TVI), to test the hypothesis that highly trained endurance athletes exhibit enhanced systolic function of the left ventricular (LV) myocardium both at rest and during combined arm-and-leg exercise in comparison with untrained subjects. For each of the ten elite male (EG) and ten matched control participants (CG), LV dimensions and systolic function were assessed at rest using echocardiography. Subsequently, these subjects exercised continuously on a combined arm-and-leg cycle ergometer for 3 min each at 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100% of VO2max. Oxygen uptake, heart rate, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and peak contraction systolic velocities of the LV myocardium (PSV) were recorded in the end of each level. At rest, the trained and untrained groups differed with respect to LV dimensions, but not systolic function. At 60–100% VO2max, the EG group demonstrated both higher PSV and SBP. The observation that the EG athletes had higher PSV than CG during exercise at 60–100% VO2max, but not at rest or at 50% of VO2max, suggested an enhanced systolic capacity. This improvement is likely to be due to an enhanced inotropic contractility, which only becomes apparent during exercise.

  • 9.
    Dzhilkibaeva, Natalya
    et al.
    Analytical Department, Sport Training Center of the Russian National Teams, Moscow, Russia.
    Ahrens, Matthias
    National Training Centre, Biathlon Canada, Canmore, AB, Canada.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Can performance in biathlon world cup be predicted by performance analysis of biathlon IBU cup?2019In: International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport, ISSN 2474-8668, E-ISSN 1474-8185, Vol. 19, no 5, p. 856-865Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Biathlon performance consists of skiing speed, shooting accuracy (ShAcc) and shooting time (ShT). For coaches, the evaluation of the performance level of biathletes to select biathletes to particular competitions is crucial. The present study aimed to compare two different approaches to analyse biathletes’ skiing performance (relative skiing speed, SS%, and skiing time coefficient, STC), and to analyse the relationship between different parameters of performance between two competition levels (World Cup, WC and IBU Cup, IC). The data from four competitive seasons were analysed including 166 male and 184 female biathletes. The correlation between SS% in IC and WC was similar for both sexes (males r = .81; females r = .78) compared to correlation between STC in IC and WC (males r = .80; females r = .75) (p < .001), whereas the mean absolute percentage error was higher for STC (1.2% and 1.8% vs. 18% and 22%). SS%, ShAcc and ShT in IC explained 54% and 45% (p < .001) of the entire WC rank for males and females, respectively. Thus, SS% is recommended to be used for evaluation of biathletes’ skiing performance. To predict the performance in WC from results in IC should be used with caution.

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  • 10.
    Fasel, Benedikt
    et al.
    Archinisis GmbH, Fribourg, Switzerland.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Supej, Matej
    University of Ljubljana.
    Trajectory matching by low-cost GNSS allows continuous time comparisons during cross country skiing2018Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    In most endurance sports, including cross-country (XC) skiing, the fastest athlete wins the race. Successful performance requires an optimal pacing strategy i.e., effective distribution of work and energy throughout a race (Abbiss & Laursen, 2008). For any given lap of a race, no more than a few split times are usually available, due to the complex logistics of setting up a timing system. However, optimal tracking of pacing (speed) during a race requires determination of more split times at regular and shorter intervals. For example, a high-end Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) can be used to easily obtain a high number of split times based on a comparison of positions (Andersson et al., 2010; Supej & Holmberg, 2011). Accordingly, the aim here was to determine whether comparison of position at onemeter intervals using a standard GNSS gives reliable split times during XC skiing.

  • 11. Hannukainen, J
    et al.
    Kalliokosk, KK
    Nuutila, P
    Fujimoto, T
    Kemppainen, J
    Viljanen, T
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Parkkola, R
    Knuut, J
    Kjaer, M
    In Vivo Measurements of Glucose Uptake in Human Achilles Tendon During Different Exercise Intensities2005In: International Journal of Sports Medicine, ISSN 0172-4622, Vol. 26, p. 727-731Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Muscular contraction and loading of adjacent tendons has been demonstrated to cause increased blood flow and metabolic activity in the peritendinous region. However, it is poorly known to what extent the human tendon itself takes up glucose during exercise. Thus, the purpose of this study was to measure tendon glucose uptake with increasing exercise intensity and to compare it to muscle glucose uptake at the same intensities. Eight young men were examined on three separate days during which they performed 35 min of cycling at 30, 55 and 75 % of VO2max, respectively. Glucose uptake was measured directly by positron emission tomography (PET) with 2-[ (18)F]fluoro-2-deoxyglucose ([18F]FDG). [18F]FDG was injected after 10 min of exercise that was continued for a further 25 min after the injection. PET scanning of the thigh and Achilles region was performed after the exercise. Glucose uptake of the Achilles tendon (AT) remained unchanged (7.1 +/- 1.5, 6.6 +/- 1.1, and 6.0 +/- 1.1 micromol.kg(-1).min(-1)) with the increasing workload, although the glucose uptake in m. quadriceps femoris simultaneously clearly increased (48 +/- 35, 120 +/- 35, and 152 +/- 74 micromol.kg(-1).min(-1), p < 0.05). In conclusion, the AT takes up glucose during exercise but in significantly smaller amounts than the skeletal muscle does. Furthermore, glucose uptake in the AT is not increased with the increasing exercise intensity. This may be partly explained by the cycle ergometry exercise used in the present study, which probably causes only a little increase in strain to the AT with increasing exercise intensity.

  • 12.
    Ihalainen, Simo
    et al.
    KIHU - Research Institute for Olympic Sports, Jyväskylä, and Biology of Physical Activity, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Kuitunen, Sami
    KIHU – Research Institute for Olympic Sports, Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Leppävuori, Antti
    Biology of Physical Activity, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, and Finnish Biathlon Association, Finland.
    Mikkola, Jussi
    KIHU – Research Institute for Olympic Sports, Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Lindinger, Stefan
    Department of Sport Science and Kinesiology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
    Linnamo, Vesa
    Biology of Physical Activity, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Technical determinants of biathlon standing shooting performance before and after race simulation2018In: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports, ISSN 0905-7188, E-ISSN 1600-0838, Vol. 28, no 6, p. 1700-1707Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim of this study was to identify performance determining factors in biathlon standing shooting in rest and after intense exercise. Eight Finnish national and nine junior team biathletes participated in the study. Participants fired 40 resting shots (REST) and 2*5 competition simulation shots (LOAD) after 5 min of roller skiing at 95% of peak heart rate. Hit percentage, aiming point trajectory and postural balance were measured from each shot. Cleanness of triggering (ATV, movement of the aiming point 0-0.2 s before the shot) and vertical stability of hold (DevY) were the most important components affecting shooting performance both in REST (DevY, R=-0.61, p<0.01; ATV, R=-0.65, p<0.01) and in LOAD (DevY, R=-0.50, p<0.05; ATV, R=-0.77, p<0.001). Postural balance, especially in shooting direction, was related to DevY and ATV. Stability of hold in horizontal (F(1,15)=7.025, p<0.05) and vertical (F(1,15)=21.285, p<0.001) directions, aiming accuracy (F(1,15)=9.060, p<0.01), and cleanness of triggering (F(1,15)=59.584, p<0.001) decreased from REST to LOAD, accompanied by a decrease in postural balance. National and junior team biathletes differed only in hit percentage in REST (92±8 % vs. 81±8 %, p<0.05) and left leg postural balance in shooting direction in LOAD (0.31±0.18 mm vs. 0.52±0.20 mm, p<0.05), and the intense exercise affected the shooting technical components similarly in both national and junior groups. Biathletes should focus on cleanness of triggering and vertical stability of hold in order to improve biathlon standing shooting performance. More stable postural balance in shooting direction could help to improve these shooting technical components.

  • 13. Ihalainen, Simo
    et al.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Mikkola, Jussi
    Leppävuori, Antti
    Lindinger, Stefan
    Sattlecker, Gerold
    Linnamo, Vesa
    Cleanness of triggering is related to biathlon standing shooting performance2016Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 14.
    Jones, Thomas W.
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Lindblom, Hampus P.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Using Multivariate Data Analysis to Project Performance in Biathletes and Cross-Country Skiers2023In: International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, ISSN 1555-0265, E-ISSN 1555-0273, Vol. 18, no 8, p. 840-851Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: To determine whether competitive performance, as defined by International Biathlon Union (IBU) and International Ski Federation (FIS) points in biathlon and cross-country (XC) skiing, respectively, can be projected using a combination of anthropometric and physiological metrics. Shooting accuracy was also included in the biathlon models. Methods: Data were analyzed using multivariate methods from 45 (23 female and 22 male) biathletes and 202 (86 female and 116 male) XC skiers who were all members of senior national teams, national development teams, or ski-university or high school invite-only programs (age range: 16-36 y). Anthropometric and physiological characteristics were assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and incremental roller-ski treadmill tests, respectively. Shooting accuracy was assessed via an outdoor standardized testing protocol. Results: Valid projective models were identified for female biathletes' IBU points (R2 = .80/ Q2 = .65) and female XC skiers' FIS distance (R2 = .81/Q2 = .74) and sprint (R2 = .81/Q2 = .70) points. No valid models were identified for the men. The most important variables for the projection of IBU points were shooting accuracy, speeds at blood lactate concentrations of 4 and 2 mmol center dot L-1, peak aerobic power, and lean mass. The most important variables for the projection of FIS distance and sprint points were speeds at blood lactate concentrations of 4 and 2 mmol center dot L-1 and peak aerobic power. Conclusions: This study highlights the relative importance of specific anthropometric, physiological, and shooting-accuracy metrics in female biathletes and XC skiers. The data can help to identify the specific metrics that should be targeted when monitoring athletes' progression and designing training plans.

  • 15.
    Jones, Thomas W.
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Wanner, Jeremy
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Using multivariate data analysis to project performance in biathletes and cross-country skiers2022Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Previous research has indicated that pacing strategies within biathlon are influenced by terrain. However, it is not known if biathletes shooting performance within competition influences any pacing strategies employed. As such, the purpose of this study was to assess the impact of shooting performance on skiing speed and pacing strategies within sprint and individual competitionin elite female biathletes. Global navigation satellite system (GNSS) and heart data were collected during the female sprint and individual competitions of the 2019 IBU World Championships. Eight female biathletes (age 27 ± 2 years, IBU points 45 ± 18) competing in the sprint and individual events of the 2019 IBU World Championships volunteered and gave their written informed consent to participate in the study. Statistical analyses were conducted on shooting bout accuracy and speed and GNSS data to determine whether the accuracy and speed of the shooting bout influenced skiing speed in the subsequent lap of the race. No significant differences in skiing speed nor pacing strategies were observed subsequent to accurate or inaccurate shooting bouts, furthermore no significant differences in skiing speed were observed subsequent to fast or slow shooting bouts. As such, it appears in the biathletes assessed here, skiing speed and pacing was independent of shooting performance, although this was observed in a small sample of female biathletes.

  • 16.
    Jonsson Kårström, Malin
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Effects of Additional Rifle-Carriage Training on Physiological Markers and Roller-Skiing Performance in Well-Trained Biathletes2021In: Journal of Science in Sport and Exercise, ISSN 2662-1371, Vol. 3, no 3, p. 292-302Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose

    The purpose was to investigate whether an increased amount of training while carrying the rifle affects skiing in well-trained biathletes at submaximal and maximal workloads during a pre-season period lasting a minimum of 12 weeks.

    Methods

    Seventeen well-trained biathletes (9 females, 8 males) were assigned to an intervention (IG, n = 10) or control (CG, n = 7) group. Before (T1) and after (T2) the training intervention all participants performed, using treadmill roller-skiing, a submaximal test without the rifle on one day and two submaximal workloads and a maximal time trial (TT) with the rifle on a subsequent day. Between T1 and T2 all participants performed a minimum of 12 weeks of normal training, the only difference between groups being that IG performed more of their training sessions carrying the rifle.

    Results

    IG performed more training compared to CG (15.4 ± 1.1 vs. 11.2 ± 2.6 h/week, P < 0.05), including a higher amount of training with the rifle (3.1 ± 0.6 vs. 1.1 ± 0.3 h/week, P < 0.001). Speed at 4 mmol/L of blood lactate increased significantly for CG from T1 to T2 (P = 0.028), while only tended to increase for IG (P = 0.058). Performance during the TT, VO2max and the aerobic metabolic rate increased significantly from T1 to T2, although the differences disappeared when including the speed at baseline as a covariate.

    Conclusion

    According to the present results, increasing training while carrying the rifle by 2 h/week does not appear to improve skiing performance in well-trained biathletes. In addition, physiological markers at submaximal and maximal intensities while carrying the rifle were not affected after the training intervention.

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  • 17.
    Jonsson Kårström, Malin
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Physiological Responses to Rifle Carriage During Roller-Skiing in Elite Biathletes2019In: Frontiers in Physiology, E-ISSN 1664-042X, Vol. 10, article id 1519Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the physiological factors affected by rifle carriage during biathlon skiing performance, as well as the sex differences associated with rifle carriage.

    Methods: Seventeen national- and international-level biathletes (nine females and eight males; age 23.0 ± 3.3 years, V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2max 59.4 ± 7.6 mL.kg–1.min–1) performed a submaximal incremental test and a maximal time-trial (TT) using treadmill roller-skiing (gear 3, skating technique) on two occasions separated by at least 48 h. One condition involved carrying the rifle on the back (WR) and the other condition no rifle (NR) and the tests were randomized. Submaximal V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2, skiing speed at 4 mmol.L–1 of blood lactate (speed@4mmol), gross efficiency (GE), aerobic (MRae), and anaerobic (MRan) metabolic rates, and V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2max were determined.

    Results: Submaximal V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2 (at all intensities) and GE (16.7 ± 0.9 vs. 16.5 ± 1.1%) were higher for WR compared to NR (p < 0.05), while speed@4mmol was lower (3.1 ± 0.4 vs. 3.3 ± 0.5 m.s–1, p = 0.040). TT performance was improved (4.6 ± 0.4 vs. 4.3 ± 0.4 m.s–1, p < 0.001) and MRan was higher (31.3 ± 8.0 vs. 27.5 ± 6.5 kJ.min–1, p < 0.01) for NR compared to WR, with no difference in V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2max or MRae. For skiing WR, TT performance was correlated to speed@4mmol (r = 0.81, p < 0.001), MRan (r = 0.65, p < 0.01), V." role="presentation" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; line-height: normal; word-spacing: normal; overflow-wrap: normal; white-space: nowrap; float: none; direction: ltr; max-width: none; max-height: none; min-width: 0px; min-height: 0px; border: 0px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px; position: relative; outline: 0px !important;">V.V.O2max (r = 0.51, p < 0.05), and relative muscle (r = 0.67, p < 0.01) and fat (r = −0.67, p < 0.01) masses. Speed@4mmol together with MRan explained more than 80% of the variation in TT performance (WR 84%, NR 81%). Despite a higher relative mass of the rifle in females compared with males (5.6 ± 0.4 vs. 5.0 ± 0.4% of body mass, p = 0.012), there were no sex differences associated with rifle carriage measured as absolute or relative differences.

    Conclusion: Rifle carriage in biathlon skiing led to significantly higher physiological demands during submaximal exercise and reduced performance during maximal treadmill roller-skiing compared to NR for both sexes. The most important variables for performance in biathlon treadmill skiing seem to be speed@4mmol combined with MRan, both of which were lower for WR compared to NR. To improve skiing performance in biathlon, improving speed at 4 mmol.L–1 of blood lactate and anaerobic energy delivery while carrying the rifle are recommended.

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  • 18.
    Jonsson Kårström, Malin
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Staunton, Craig A.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Björklund, Glenn
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Rifle carriage affects gear distribution during on-snow skiing in female and male biathletes2022In: Journal of Sports Sciences, ISSN 0264-0414, E-ISSN 1466-447X, Vol. 40, no 24, p. 2722-2731Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim was to investigate whether rifle carriage affects gear distribution during on-snow skiing in highly-trained biathletes, and whether there were any associated sex differences. Twenty-eight biathletes (11 women, 17 men) skied a 2230-m lap at competition speed twice, one lap with the rifle (WR) and the other lap without the rifle (NR). The biathletes wore a portable 3D-motion analysis system while skiing, which enabled characterisation of distance and time in different gears. Skiing WR increased lap time compared to NR (412 (90) vs. 395 (91) s, p < 0.001). The biathletes used gear 2 to a greater extent WR compared to NR (distance: 413 ± 139 vs. 365 ± 142 m; time: 133 (95) vs. 113 (86) s; both p < 0.001) and gear 3 less (distance: 713 ± 166 vs. 769 ± 182 m, p < 0.001; time: 141 ± 33 vs. 149 ± 37 s, p = 0.008), with similar patterns for women and men. Differences between WR and NR in the use of gears 3 and 2 were more extensive for moderate compared to steeper uphill terrain. Rifle carriage increased the use of gear 2, which was negatively associated with performance. Therefore, preparing biathletes to be able to cover more distance in gear 3 WR, especially in moderate uphill terrain, may improve biathlon skiing performance.

  • 19.
    Jonsson Kårström, Malin
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Staunton, Craig A.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Björklund, Glenn
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Rifle carriage affects gear distribution during on-snow skiing in female and male biathletes2023Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    INTRODUCTION: A greater usage of gear 3 is associated with improved performance in cross-country skiing. However, it remains unclear whether rifle carriage in biathlon affects sub-technique choice, and therefore biathlon skiing performance. Therefore,this study aimed to investigate whether rifle carriage affects gear distribution during on-snow skiing in biathletes, and whether there are any associated sex differences.

    METHODS: Twenty-eight tier 3 biathletes (17 men, 11 women) skied a 2230-m lap at competition speed twice, once with the rifle (WR) and once without the rifle (NR) in a counter-balanced and randomized order. The course was divided into seven uphill sections, three flat sections and seven downhill sections. The biathletes wore aportable 3D-motion analysis system while skiing, which together with GNSS data enabled the characterization of distance covered and time spent in gears 2–4 and skiing without poles (NP). A two-way mixed model ANOVA was used to investigate whether rifle carriage and/or sex influenced gear distribution or performance.

    RESULTS: Skiing WR increased the lap time compared to NR (412 (90) vs.395 (91) s, p < 0.001). The biathletes used gear 2 to a greater extent during WR compared to NR (distance: 413 ± 139 vs. 365 ± 142 m; time: 133 (95) vs. 113 (86) s;both p < 0.001) and gear 3 to a lesser extent (distance: 713 ± 166 vs. 769 ± 182 m,p < 0.001; time: 141 ± 33 vs. 149 ± 37 s, p < 0.01) without differences in gear 4 or NP.The women demonstrated a greater proportional use of gear 2 compared to the men (p < 0.05). For the two longest uphill sections, the uphill with a more moderate incline (4.5°) revealed more differences between WR and NR in the use of gears 2 and 3 compared to the uphill with a steeper incline (6.7°). Increased usage of gear 2 (distance and time) was also negatively related to performance during WR and NR (r = 0.516–0.901, p < 0.01).

    DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Rifle carriage decreases the distance covered and time spent in gear 3 and increases these metrics in gear 2, and the use of gear 2 was negatively related to performance. Rifle carriage had a greater impact on gear distribution when skiing in moderate uphill terrain, where changes between gears 2 and 3 were more common, compared to in steeper terrain. This information can be useful for athletes and coaches when developing and optimizing sport-specific biathlon training to improve performance.

  • 20.
    Jonsson Kårström, Malin
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Stöggl, Thomas
    Lund Ohlsson, Marie
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko S.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Kinematical effects of rifle carriage on roller skiing in well-trained female and male biathletes2023In: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports, ISSN 0905-7188, E-ISSN 1600-0838, Vol. 33, no 4, p. 444-454Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose: This study aimed to investigate how rifle carriage and skiing speed during biathlon roller skiing affect range of motion (ROM) in joint angles and equipment (skis and poles), the vertical distance between shoulders and treadmill (vertdist), as well as possible sex differences associated with rifle carriage. Methods: Fourteen biathletes (6 women, 8 men) roller-skied on a treadmill at submaximal and simulated race speeds, with (WR) and without (NR) a rifle, using gears 3 and 2. Kinematical data for the whole body, poles, roller-skis, rifle, and treadmill were monitored using a 3D motion capture system. Movements determined as flexion/extension (x), abduction/adduction (y), and/or internal/external rotation (z) were analyzed for the hip, shoulder, thorax, knee, ankle, elbow, poles, and roller skis. ROM (the difference between maximal and minimal angles) in joints and equipment, and vertdist were analyzed over six skiing cycles during each condition (WR and NR) and speed. Results: The maximal vertdist was lower for WR compared with NR (gear 3: 1.53 ± 0.06 vs 1.54 ± 0.06 m; gear 2: 1.49 ± 0.06 vs 1.51 ± 0.06 m; both p &lt; 0.001). ROM in the upper body was altered when roller skiing WR (movements decreased in thorax and shoulder (x) and increased in elbow (only gear 3) (x), thorax (only gear 2), and shoulder (y) and (z); all p &lt; 0.05) and increased with speed, without differences between sexes (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Since rifle carriage and speed appear to affect the kinematics of roller skiing, coaches, and biathletes are advised to perform skiing technique training under competition-like conditions (i.e., at race speeds while carrying the rifle). 

  • 21.
    Jonsson Kårström, Malin
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Stöggl, Thomas
    Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Salzburg.
    Lund Ohlsson, Marie
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko S.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Kinematical Effects of Rifle Carriage on Roller-Skiing in Well-Trained Female and Male Biathletes2022Conference paper (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Purpose 

    This study aimed to investigate how rifle carriage and skiing speed during biathlon roller-skiing affect range of motion (ROM) in joint angles and equipment (skis and poles), the vertical distance between shoulders and treadmill (vertdist), as well as possible sex differences associated with rifle carriage. 

    Methods 

    Fourteen biathletes (6 women, 8 men) roller-skied on a treadmill at submaximal and simulated race speeds, with (WR) and without (NR) a rifle, using gears 3 and 2. Kinematical data for the whole body, poles, roller-skis, rifle and treadmill were monitored using a 3D motion capture system. Movements determined as flexion/extension (x), abduction/adduction (y) and/or internal/external rotation (z) were analyzed for the hip, shoulder, thorax, knee, ankle, elbow, poles and roller-skis. ROM (the difference between maximal and minimal angles) in joints and equipment, and vertdist were analyzed over six skiing cycles during each condition (WR and NR) and speed. 

    Results 

    The maximal vertdist was lower for WR compared to NR (gear 3: 1.53±0.06 vs 1.54±0.06 m; gear 2: 1.49±0.06 vs 1.51±0.06 m; both p<0.001). ROM in the upper body was altered when roller-skiing WR (movements decreased in thorax and shoulder (x) and increased in elbow (only gear 3) (x), thorax (only gear 2) and shoulder (y) and (z); all p><0.05) and increased with speed, without differences between sexes (p>0.05). 

    Conclusion 

    Since rifle carriage and speed appear to affect the kinematics of rollerskiing, coaches and biathletes are advised to perform skiing technique training under competition-like conditions (i.e., at race speeds while carrying the rifle).

  • 22.
    Jonsson, Malin
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Differences in range of motion and feet pressure between skiing with and without rifle in gear 3 for female biathletes2015In: Book of Abstracts of the 20th Annual Congress of theEuropean College of Sport Science – 24th - 27th June 2015, Malmö – Sweden / [ed] Radmann, A., Hedenborg, S., Tsolakidis, E., 2015Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 23.
    Jonsson, Malin
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Rifle carriage decreases speed at lactate threshold, anaerobic energy contribution and performance in biathlon skiing.2019Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Biathlon is an endurance sport combining rifle shooting and intermittent cross-country skiing while carrying a rifle (minimum weight 3.5 kg). Previous studies have shown that the skiing component explains 60% of overall biathlon performance (1) and that rifle carriage affects different physiological responses such as blood lactate, oxygen uptake (VO2) and heart rate during skiing (2, 3). However, the effects of rifle carriage on skiing performance and variables such as maximal VO2 (VO2max), lactate threshold, efficiency of movement and anaerobic energy contribution have not yet been investigated.METHODS:Seventeen biathletes (9 females, 8 males; age 23.0 (3.3) years, VO2max 59.8 (7.3) mL/kg/min), competing at a national and/or international level, and completing approximately three biathlon training sessions/week with the rifle on the back, performed a submaximal incremental test and a 900–1000-m maximal time-trial (TT) using treadmill roller-skiing (gear 3 skating technique) on two occasions separated by at least 48 hours. One condition involved carrying the rifle on the back (WR) and the other no rifle (NR), with the order randomized. The VO2 and skiing speed at 4 mmol/L of blood lactate (VO2@4mmol and speed@4mmol, respectively), gross efficiency (GE), metabolic aerobic (MRae) and anaerobic (MRan) rates, and VO2max were determined. RESULTS:Submaximal VO2 at all levels and GE (16.7 (0.9) vs 16.5 (1.1) %, p<0.05) were higher for WR compared to NR, while speed@4mmol (11.3 (1.5) vs 11.7 (1.5) km/h, p<0.05) and MRan (27.3 (6.7) vs 30.5 (7.6) kJ/min, p<0.01) was lower. There were no differences in VO2@4mmol or MRae between the two conditions. The mean speed during the TT was higher for NR compared to WR (16.5 (1.5) vs 15.5 (1.4) km/h, p<0.001), but there was no difference in VO2max. Mean speed during the TT was correlated to speed@4mmol (WR: r=0.810, p<0.001; NR: r=0.659, p<0.01), GE (WR: r=0.691; NR r=0.529, both p<0.05) and VO2max (WR: r=0.514; NR: r=0.526, both p<0.05). Speed@4mmol together with MRan explained more than 80% of performance in the TT (WR 83.7%, NR 81.5%). There was no difference between male and female biathletes in response to rifle carriage, although the relative mass of the rifle was higher for the females (5.6 (0.4) vs 5.0 (0.4) % of body mass, p<0.01).CONCLUSION:According to this study, the most important variables for skiing speed in biathlon seem to be the speed at lactate threshold combined with the metabolic anaerobic rate, both of which were lower for skiing with the rifle compared to without. In addition, GE was related to biathlon performance and was also affected by rifle carriage. Thus, to improve skiing performance in biathlon, improving speed at the lactate threshold, anaerobic energy delivery and GE while carrying the rifle are recommended.

  • 24. Kalliokoski,
    et al.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Takala,
    Knuuti,
    Nuutila,
    Muscle oxygen extraction and perfusion heterogeneity during continuous and intermittent static exercise2003In: Journal of Applied Physiology, ISSN 8750-7587, Vol. 94, p. 953-958Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of intermittent and continuous static exercise on muscle perfusion, perfusion heterogeneity, and oxygen extraction. Perfusion and oxygen uptake of quadriceps femoris muscle were measured in 10 healthy men by using positron emission tomography and [(15)O]H(2)O and [(15)O]O(2) first during intermittent static exercise [10% of maximal static force (MSF)] and thereafter during continuous static exercise at the same tension-time level (5% static; 5% of MSF). In 4 of these subjects, perfusion was measured during continuous static exercise with 10% of MSF (10% continuous) instead of the second [(15)O]O(2) measurement. Muscle oxygen consumption was similar during intermittent and 5% continuous, but muscle perfusion was significantly higher during 5% continuous. Consequently, muscle oxygen extraction fraction was lower during 5% continuous. Perfusion was also more heterogeneous during 5% continuous. When exercise intensity was doubled during continuous static exercise (from 5% continuous to 10% continuous), muscle perfusion increased markedly. These results suggest that continuous, low-intensity static exercise decreases muscle oxygen extraction and increases muscle perfusion and its heterogeneity compared with intermittent static exercise at the same relative exercise intensity.

  • 25. Kalliokoski, K K
    et al.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Knuuti, J
    Nuutila, P
    Perfusion distribution between and within muscles during intermittent static exercise in endurance-trained and untrained men2003In: International Journal of Sports Medicine, ISSN 0172-4622, Vol. 24, p. 400-403Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    We have recently shown that muscle perfusion varies between different quadriceps femoris muscles during submaximal exercise in humans. In animals, endurance training changes perfusion distribution between muscles during exercise. Whether the same is observed in humans is currently unknown. Therefore, we compared perfusion levels between different parts of the quadriceps femoris muscle group during one-legged intermittent static exercise in seven endurance-trained and seven untrained men. Muscle perfusion was measured using positron emission tomography with [ 15O]-H 2 O. In addition, relative dispersion of perfusion (standard deviation within a region/mean within a region x 100 %) within each muscle region was calculated as an index of perfusion heterogeneity within the muscles. Muscle perfusion tended to be lower in endurance-trained men (p = 0.16) and it was also different between the regions (p < 0.001). However, perfusion distributed similarly between the groups (p = 0.51). Relative dispersion of perfusion within the muscles was lower in endurance-trained men (p = 0.01) and it was also different between muscles (p < 0.001). These results suggest that endurance training does not alter perfusion distribution between muscles, but it decreases perfusion heterogeneity within the muscles.

  • 26. Kalliokoski, K K
    et al.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Luotolahti, M
    Laine, H
    Takala, T O
    Nuutila, P
    Knuuti, J
    Myocardial perfusion and coronary resistance in cardiac fatigue after marathon running2002In: XXVII FIMS World Congress on Sports Medicine, 2002Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 27. Kalliokoski, K K
    et al.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Takala, T O
    Knuuti, J
    Nuutila, P
    Lihasten verenvirtaus, verenvirtauksen heterogeenisuus ja happiekstraktio vaiheittaisessa ja jatkuvassa staattisessa rasituksessa2002In: XI Liikunta-lääketieteen Päivät, 2002Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    (in finnish only)

  • 28. Kalliokoski, K
    et al.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Knuuti, J
    Nuutila, P
    The effects of endurance training on muscle blood flow distribution between muscles in humans2001In: Book of Abstracts of the 6th Annual Congress of the European College of Sport Science in Cologne, Germany from 24-28 July 2001, 2001Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 29. Kalliokoski, K.K
    et al.
    Kuusela, T.A.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Knuuti, J
    Nuutila, P
    Muscle fractal vascular branching pattern and microvascular perfusion heterogeneity in endurance-trained and untrained men2003In: Journal of Physiology, ISSN 0022-3751, Vol. 546, no pt2, p. 529-35Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Less heterogeneous skeletal muscle perfusion has recently been reported in endurance-trained compared to untrained men at macrovascular level. The causes of this difference in perfusion heterogeneity are unknown as is whether the same difference is observed in microvasculature. We hypothesised that the difference could be caused by changes in muscle vascular branching pattern. Perfusion was measured in resting and exercising muscle in 14 endurance-trained and seven untrained men using [(15)O]water and positron emission tomography. Fractal dimension (D) of perfusion distribution was calculated as a measure of fractal characteristics of muscle vascular branching pattern. Perfusion heterogeneity in microvascular units (1 mm(3) samples) was estimated using the measured heterogeneity in voxels of positron emission tomography (PET) images (relative dispersion, RD = S.D./mean) and corresponding D values. D was similar between the groups (exercising muscle 1.11 +/- 0.07 and 1.14 +/- 0.06, resting muscle 1.12 +/- 0.06 and 1.14 +/- 0.03, trained and untrained, respectively). Trained men had lower perfusion (151 +/- 44 vs. 218 +/- 87 ml min(-1) kg(-1), P < 0.05) and macrovascular perfusion heterogeneity (relative dispersion 21 +/- 5 vs. 25 +/- 5 %, P < 0.05) in exercising muscle than untrained men. Furthermore, estimated perfusion heterogeneity in microvascular units in exercising muscle was also lower in trained men (33 +/- 7 vs.48 +/- 19 %, P < 0.05). These results show that fractal vascular branching pattern is similar in endurance-trained and untrained men but perfusion is less heterogeneous at both the macro- and the microvascular level in endurance-trained men. Thus, changes in fractal branching pattern do not explain the differences in perfusion heterogeneity between endurance-trained and untrained men.

  • 30. Kalliokoski, KK
    et al.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Luotolahti, M
    Laine, H
    Takala, TO
    Nuutila, P
    Knuuti,
    Knuuti, J
    Myocardial perfusion after marathon running2004In: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sport, ISSN 0905-7188, Vol. 14, no 4, p. 208-214Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    We investigated the effects of acute prolonged exercise (marathon running) on cardiac function and myocardial perfusion. Cardiac dimensions and function were measured in seven endurance-trained men using echocardiography before and repeatedly after marathon (42.2 km) running (at 10 min, 150 min, and 20 h). Myocardial perfusion and perfusion resistance were measured using positron emission tomography and 15O-H2O before and 85-115 min after running. Echocardiographic indices showed only mild and clinically non-significant changes in cardiac function after running. Rate-pressure-corrected basal myocardial perfusion (0.89+/-0.13 vs. 1.20+/-0.32 mL min(-1) g(-1), P=0.04) was increased after running. Also, adenosine-stimulated perfusion tended to be higher (3.67+/-0.81 vs. 4.47+/-0.52 mL min(-1) g(-1), P=0.12) and perfusion resistance during adenosine stimulation was significantly lower after running (26+/-6 vs. 18+/-3 mmHg min g mL(-1), P=0.03). Plasma free fatty acid (FFA) concentration was significantly increased after running. These results show that marathon running does not cause marked changes in cardiac function in healthy men. Basal perfusion was increased after exercise, probably reflecting changes in fuel preferences to increased use of FFAs. Strenuous exercise also seems to enhance coronary reactivity, which could thereby serve as a protective mechanism to vascular events after exercise.

  • 31. Kalliokoski, K.K.
    et al.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Luotolahti, M.
    Laine, H.
    Takala, T.O.
    Nuutila, P.
    Knuuti, J.
    Myocardial blood flow and coronary resistance in 'myocardial fatigue' a cardiac dysfunction following prolonged exercise2001In: Proceedings of the 16th International Puijo Symposium, 2001Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 32.
    Karlsson, Øyvind
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Danemar, Magnus
    Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    391 A comparison of the prevalence and severity of health problems in national team cross-country skiers over a competitive season2021In: / [ed] Jonathan Drezner, BMJ Publishing Group Ltd, 2021, Vol. 55Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background A limited number of long-term prospective studies have investigated health problems in competitive cross-country skiers. Moreover, limited information exists regarding differences in the prevalence and severity of health problems between senior and development female and male cross-country skiers.

    Objective To compare the prevalence and severity of health problems between senior and development female and male national team cross-country skiers.

    Design Comparative, prospective, observational cohort study.

    Setting Senior and development national cross-country ski teams.

    Participants Eighteen (9 women, 9 men) senior and 22 (9 women, 13 men) development national team skiers.

    Intervention Skiers self-reported their health problems weekly for 17 weeks throughout the 2019/2020 competitive cross-country ski season using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire on Health Problems (OSTRC-H2).

    Main Outcome Measurements We calculated weekly prevalence and severity measures for illnesses, acute and overuse injuries, substantial health problems (i.e., health problems leading to moderate or severe reductions in training volume or sports performance, or a complete inability to participate) and all health problems combined.

    Results Weekly response rate to the OSTRC-H2 was 90% (SD 7%). Average weekly prevalence of substantial (~12%) and all (~25%) health problems were similar between senior and development team skiers. However, illness prevalence was lower in senior vs. development skiers (8%, 95% CI [3%, 13%] vs. 13%, 95% CI [9%, 17%], respectively; p = .026) and injuries were higher (12%, 95% CI [9%, 15%] vs. 5%, 95% CI [3%, 7%]; p < .001). There were no differences in severity measures (all p > .05).

    Conclusions Health problems were relatively common among the skiers, with one quarter affected by at least one problem at any given time. While the prevalence of all health problems was similar, illnesses were less prevalent in the senior compared to the development team skiers and injuries were more prevalent.

  • 33.
    Karlsson, Øyvind
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Danemar, Magnus
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Health problems in national team cross-country skiers over a competitive season: a 17-week prospective cohort study2022In: BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, E-ISSN 2055-7647, Vol. 8, no 4, article id e001408Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective Few long-term prospective studies have investigated health problems in elite competitive cross-country (XC) skiers. Hence, our objective was to compare the prevalence of health problems in national team XC skiers over a competitive season.

    Methods Forty national team XC skiers participated in this prospective, observational study. Two groups were characterized according to performance level: senior (n=18, ~26 years old, 9 women) and development (n=22, ~21 years old, 9 women). The skiers reported all and substantial injuries and illnesses weekly for 17 consecutive weeks throughout the 2019/2020 competitive season using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire on Health Problems.

    Results The average weekly prevalence of all and substantial health problems was 19% (95% CI: 16% to 22%) and 12% (95% CI: 9% to 15%), respectively, and was similar between senior and development level skiers (p>0.05). The injury prevalence was higher in senior versus development level skiers (12%, 95% CI: 9% to 15% vs 5%, 95% CI: 3% to 7%; p<0.001), while illnesses were less common (8%, 95% CI: 3% to 13% vs 13%, 95% CI: 9% to 17%, respectively; p=0.031). Illnesses accounted for 72% of all problems. The prevalence of all health problems was higher in female than in male skiers (23%, 95% CI: 19% to 27% vs 15%, 95% CI: 11% to 19%; p<0.003).

    Conclusions Health problems, especially illnesses, were relatively common, with approximately one in five skiers (19%) reporting at least one problem in any given week. Both performance level and sex influenced the prevalence of different types of health problems.

  • 34.
    Karlsson, Øyvind
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Monitoring Acclimatization and Training Responses Over 17–21 Days at 1,800 m in Elite Cross-Country Skiers and Biathletes2022In: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, E-ISSN 2624-9367, Vol. 4, article id 852108Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective: To monitor the daily variations and time course of changes in selected variables during a 17–21-day altitude training camp at 1,800 m in a group of elite cross-country skiers (9 women, 12 men) and biathletes (7 women, 4 men).

    Methods: Among other variables, resting peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2rest), resting heart rate (HRrest) and urine specific gravity (USG) were monitored daily at altitude, while illness symptoms were monitored weekly. Before and after the camp, body composition (i.e., lean and fat mass) and body mass were assessed in all athletes, while roller-skiing speed at a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L−1 (Speed@4mmol) was assessed in the biathletes only.

    Results: Neither SpO2rest, HRrest nor USG changed systematically during the camp (p > 0.05), although some daily time points differed from day one for the latter two variables (p < 0.05). In addition, body composition and body mass were unchanged from before to after the camp (p > 0.05). Eleven out of 15 illness episodes were reported within 4 days of the outbound or homebound flight. The five biathletes who remained free of illness increased their Speed@4mmol by ~ 4% from before to after the camp (p = 0.031).

    Conclusions: The present results show that measures typically recommended to monitor acclimatization and responses to altitude in athletes (e.g., SpO2rest and HRrest) did not change systematically over time. Further research is needed to explore the utility of these and other measures in elite endurance athletes at altitudes typical of competition environments.

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  • 35.
    Karlsson, Øyvind
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Resting peripheral oxygen saturation and heart rate responses during a training camp at 1800 m in elite cross-country skiers and biathletes2022Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 36.
    Karlsson, Øyvind
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Training characteristics of highly-trained cross-country skiers throughout the transition from junior to senior level2019Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    INTRODUCTION: Reaching an international level in any endurance sport requires a large volume of systematic training performed over time. While the annual training characteristics of senior, elite-level cross-country (XC) skiers are well documented (1), limited data exist regarding the long-term training of developing XC skiers. The current study aimed to describe the training undertaken by a group of highly-trained XC skiers throughout their transition from junior- to senior-level athletes. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, self-reported training data were obtained from 32 highly-trained female (n = 13) and male (n = 19) XC skiers for the season they turned 16 years old (y) until the season they turned 23 y. At the time of inclusion, 26 skiers (11 females and 15 males) had represented at least one of the Swedish national teams (senior, development or junior), and eight of these skiers (6 females and 2 males) had won at least one individual U23 or Junior World Championship medal. The remaining six skiers were part of a specialist ski university in Sweden, where selection is based on the potential to perform at a world-class level. Training data were organized by training form (endurance, strength, and speed), mode (e.g. on-snow skiing, roller skiing, running, and cycling), and intensity (using a 4-zone model), which were then divided into five annual training phases (transition, general preparation [GP], specific preparation [SP], competition [CP], regeneration). RESULTS: Data from 155 seasons, including 59 026 individual training sessions and 94 964 h of training, were analysed. From age 16 to 22 y the total volume of endurance training increased from 472 ± 70 to 721 ± 86 h/yr (p < 0.001). Low-intensity training (LIT, below the first lactate threshold, <85% HRmax) and high-intensity training (HIT, above the first lactate threshold, >85% HRmax) increased from 414 ± 61 to 656 ± 72 h/yr (p < 0.001) and 58 ± 33 to 65 ± 16 h/yr (p = 0.018), respectively. The training-volume distribution developed progressively from a more even distribution across training phases at age 16 y (GP: 10.6 ± 1.8 h/wk; SP: 10.4 ± 1.5 h/wk; CP: 8.6 ± 1.5 h/wk) to a more traditional periodised model at age 22 y (GP: 17.5 ± 1.7 h/wk; SP: 12.7 ± 1.9 h/wk; CP: 11.1 ± 2.1 h/wk), whereby a higher proportion of the total training volume was performed in GP, and a lower proportion in SP and CP, as athletes developed. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this group of highly-trained XC skiers progressively increased their endurance training volume from age 16 to 22 y, to a level that is required of elite XC skiers. This increase in training volume was primarily due to an increase in LIT in the general preparation phase. In addition, training-volume distribution became more periodised as athletes developed from junior to senior level. REFERENCES 1. Ø. Sandbakk & HC. Holmberg, International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 9, 117-121 (2014).

  • 37.
    Karlsson, Øyvind
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Laaksonen, Marko S.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Training and illness characteristics of crosscountry skiers transitioning from junior to senior level2021In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 16, no 5 May, article id e0250088Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective This study aimed to describe the endurance training and incidence of illnesses reported by a group of well-trained cross-country (XC) skiers throughout their transition from junior to senior level. Methods Changes in self-reported training and performance, from 31 well-trained XC skiers, were analyzed from the start of the season they turned 16 y until the end of the season they turned 22 y, using linear mixed-effects models. Differences in the incidence of self-reported illness episodes were analyzed using incidence rate ratios, and the relationships between selfreported illness and training volumes were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models in a sub-group of 23 of the skiers. Results In total, 145 seasons of training data (including 85,846 h of endurance training) and 109 person- years of illness data (including 380 self-reported illness episodes) were analyzed. The athletes progressively increased their annual endurance training volume from age 16 to 22 y in a linear fashion, from ~ 470 to 730 h. Low- and high-intensity training volumes increased by 51.4 ± 2.4 h·y-1 (p < .001) and 4.9 ± 0.6 h·y-1 (p < .001), respectively. Sport-specific and non-specific training increased by 50.0 ± 2.2 h·y-1 (p < .001) and 4.6 ± 2.0 h·y-1 (p < .001), respectively. The athletes reported a median (range) of 3 (0-8) illness episodes and 17 (0- 80) days of illness per year, and there was an inverse relationship between self-reported illness days and annual training volume (-0.046 ± 0.013 d?h-1; p < .001). Conclusions This group of well-trained XC skiers increased their endurance training volume in a linear fashion by ~ 55 h annually. This was primarily achieved through an increase in low-intensity and sport-specific training. Furthermore, higher training volumes were associated with a lower number of self-reported illness days.

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  • 38. Kyröläinen, H
    et al.
    Linnamo, V
    Aveja, J
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Kivelä, R
    Sipilä, S
    Selänne, H
    Komi, P V
    Neuromuscular responses to fatiguing stretch-shortening cycle exercise in different muscle actions2004In: Book of abstracts of the 4th International Conference on Strength Training, November 3-7, 2004 Serres, Greece, 2004, p. 306-307Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 39.
    Kårström, Andreas
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV). Swedish Biathlon Federation, Östersund, Sweden.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Björklund, Glenn
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    School’s out for summer–Differences in training characteristics between adolescent biathletes of different performance levels2023In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 18, no 8, article id e0290408Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The purpose of this study was to retrospectively describe the longitudinal changes of training variables in adolescent biathletes based on performance level. Thirty biathletes (15 men and 15 women) were included in the study and categorized as either national level biathletes (NLB, n = 21) or national team biathletes (NTB, n = 9). Retrospective training data was collected from training diary covering the biathletes’ four years (Y1-Y4) as student-athletes at upper secondary school. Training data was divided into physical and shooting training variables. A linear mixed-effect model was used for comparing the difference of the performance group and year of upper secondary school on training characteristics. The NTB group achieved a greater annual training volume than the NLB group, especially during Y4 (594±71 h·y-1 vs 461±127 h·y-1, p < 0.001), through an increase in duration of each session and by completing more weekly training volume during the general phase (13.7±4.6 vs 10.0±4.9 h·w-1, p = 0.004). No difference was observed in relative training intensity distribution between the groups. The total number of shots fired was also greater for the NTB (9971±4716 vs 7355±2812 shots·y-1, p = 0.003). There was an equal frequency in illness and injury for both the NLB and NTB. Accordingly, the results of the present study describe longitudinal changes of biathlon training in adolescent biathletes that also may affect performance development.

  • 40.
    Kårström, Andreas
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Björklund, Glenn
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Training Characteristics Of Swedish Adolescent Biathletes2023In: Abstract Book of the 9th International Congress on Science and Skiing, 2023, p. 81-81Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    INTRODUCTION: At upper secondary school (USS) with a sport profile, late adolescent athletes choose to specialize in one sport and balance an academic career while they aim to become a top-level athlete. Hence, the aim for this study was to examine the distribution in endurance training volume and intensity in two different performance groups of biathletes during their student-athlete pathway at USS.

    METHODS: Retrospective training data of thirty adolescent biathletes (15 men and 15 women) was collected. The training data included training volume (h·y-1) and intensity distribution, using a five-zone model (Seiler, 2010). Inclusion criteria was completion of four years of USS (16 to 19 years old) and with a continued competing in biathlon post USS. The biathletes were grouped based on biathlon performance: that if they during or after USS were selected as a nationalteam biathlete (NTB, n = 9) by the Swedish Biathlon Federation or stayed a national level biathlete (NLB, n = 21). A linear mixed model was fitted for assessing the relationship between performance group and age-group on the training characteristics.

    RESULTS: NTB and NLB had equal training volume and intensity distribution at year one, two and three. At year four NTB had a ~30% greater training volume than NLB (594 ± 71 h·y-1 vs 461 ± 127 h·y-1, p = .003) while performing the same number of training sessions (NTB, 359 ± 40 n, NLB, 320 ± 83 n, p = 0.878). There was no difference in training distribution at year one, two and three. At year four the NTB accumulated greater training volume compared to NLB in zone 1 (495 ± 54 vs 387 ± 107, p = .008) and zone 3 (21 ± 12 vs 13 ± 6, p = .019) respectively.  

    DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: This study showed that a greater overall training volume during the last year of USS is of importance to become a NTB compared to NLB. The increased training volume for NTB was distributed in zone 1 and 3. The equal amount of training sessions indicates that NTB trained longer sessions. And speculatively, the greater amount of training volume was performed during non-school hours, because of the dual-career system and structure of the Swedish USS. Accordingly, this study conclude that late adolescent biathletes should increase their training volume, preferably in both zone 1 and in zone 3, outside of their normal USS training for increasing their chance of being selected to a national team.  

    REFERENCES:  Seiler, S., 2010. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 

  • 41.
    Köykkä, Miika
    et al.
    University of Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Ihalainen, Simo
    University of Jyväskylä, Finland; KIHU, Research Institute for Olympic Sports, Finland.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Häkkinen, Keijo
    University of Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Mikkola, Jussi
    KIHU, Research Institute for Olympic Sports, Finland.
    Leppävuori, Antti
    University of Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Lindinger, Stefan
    University of Gothenburg.
    Sattlecker, Gerold
    University of Salzburg, Austria.
    Linnamo, Vesa
    University of Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Differences in biathlon standing shooting performance in senior and junior biathletes2018Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 42.
    Köykkä, Miika
    et al.
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Ihalainen, Simo
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Linnamo, Vesa
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Ruotsalainen, Keijo
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Häkkinen, Keijo
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Aiming strategy affects performance related factors in biathlon standing shooting2020Conference paper (Other academic)
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  • 43.
    Köykkä, Miika
    et al.
    Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Ihalainen, Simo
    KIHU - Research Institute for Olympic Sports, Finland.
    Linnamo, Vesa
    Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Ruotsalainen, Keijo
    Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Häkkinen, Keijo
    Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Aiming strategy affects performance-related factors in biathlon standing shooting2021In: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports, ISSN 0905-7188, E-ISSN 1600-0838, Vol. 31, no 3, p. 573-585Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study focused on investigating differences in shooting performance and performance‐related factors between two different aiming strategies (HOLD, low radial velocity during the approach 0.4‐0.2 seconds before triggering, and TIMING, high radial velocity) in biathlon standing shooting. A total of 23 biathletes fired 8 × 5 standing shots at rest (REST) and 2 × 5 shots during a race simulation (RACE). Shooting performance (hit point distance from the center of the target), aiming point trajectory and postural balance were measured from each shot. Shooting performance was similar both at REST (HOLD 33 ± 5 mm vs TIMING 38 ± 8 mm, P = .111) and in RACE (40 ± 11 mm vs 47 ± 12 mm, P = .194). Better shooting performance was related to smaller distance of the aiming point mean location (REST r = 0.93, P < .001, RACE r = 0.72, P = .018) and higher time spent within ⅔ of the distance of the hit area edge from the center 0.6‐0.0 seconds before triggering (REST r=−0.88, P = .001, RACE r=−0.73, P = .016) in HOLD, and to lower aiming point total velocity 0.6‐0.0 seconds before triggering (REST r = 0.77, P = .009, RACE r = 0.88, P = .001) and less aiming point movement 0.2‐0.0 seconds before triggering (REST r = 0.82, P = .003, RACE r = 0.72, P = .012) in TIMING. Postural balance was related to shooting performance at REST in both groups and in RACE in TIMING. Biathletes using the hold strategy should focus on stabilizing the aiming point before triggering and aiming at the center, whereas biathletes using the timing strategy benefit of decreasing the total velocity during the final approach as well as minimizing the aiming point movement right before triggering.

  • 44.
    Köykkä, Miika
    et al.
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Ihalainen, Simo
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Ruotsalainen, Keijo
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Linnamo, Vesa
    University of Jyväskylä.
    Performance‐determining factors in biathlon prone shooting without physical stress2022In: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports, ISSN 0905-7188, E-ISSN 1600-0838, Vol. 32, no 2, p. 414-423Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    This study investigated the most important factors determining biathlon prone shooting performance. Ten female and 16 male biathletes (age 19.9 ± 2.9 years) from the national teams of Finland and Vuokatti-Ruka Sports Academy performed 6 × 5 biathlon prone shooting shots without physical stress under laboratory conditions. Shooting performance and multiple aiming point trajectory variables were measured together with an analysis of triggering force. Based on the aiming point trajectory data principal component analysis, we identified four technical components in biathlon prone shooting: stability of hold, aiming accuracy, cleanness of triggering, and timing of triggering. Multiple regression analysis (MRA) further determined that cleanness of triggering, aiming accuracy, and timing of triggering accounted for 80% of mean shooting performance (p < 0.001). Better stability of hold, aiming accuracy and cleanness of triggering were directly associated with better shooting performance (0.62 ≤ |r| ≥0.79, all p < 0.001). Better stability of hold measures were also associated with better cleanness of triggering, and higher pre-shot trigger force levels were associated with better stability of hold and cleanness of triggering. These results indicate that with both direct and indirect effects on performance, stability of hold seems to be a general prerequisite for successful biathlon shooting. The results also highlight the importance of aiming accuracy, cleanness and timing of triggering, along with a high pre-shot trigger force level. The variables identified in this study could be used to assess biathletes’ performance in the most relevant shooting technical aspects to guide the emphasis of their shooting training.

  • 45.
    Köykkä, Miika
    et al.
    1 Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences , University of Jyväskylä , Jyväskylä , Finland;2 Finnish Institute of High Performance Sport KIHU , Jyväskylä , Finland.
    Linnamo, Vesa
    1 Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences , University of Jyväskylä , Jyväskylä , Finland.
    Ruotsalainen, Keijo
    1 Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences , University of Jyväskylä , Jyväskylä , Finland.
    Rantalainen, Timo
    1 Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences , University of Jyväskylä , Jyväskylä , Finland.
    Laaksonen, Marko S.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences (HOV).
    Rifle and aiming point accelerations do not differ between the most and least accurate shots in biathlon shooting within an athlete2023In: Biomedical Human Kinetics, ISSN 2080-2234, Vol. 15, no 1, p. 139-147Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Study aim: As studies from shooting disciplines other than biathlon have observed associations between weapon accelerations and shooting performance, this study investigated whether accelerations of the rifle stock and aiming point (the point on the target where the rifle is aimed at) are associated with shooting performance, and differences in rifle and aiming point accelerations between the most and least accurate shots. Further, associations between rifle and aiming point accelerations were studied.Materials and methods: Shooting performance (Hit(Dist), hit point distance from the center of the target) along with rifle and aiming point accelerations were measured from nine biathletes who performed 6x5 biathlon prone and standing shots.Results: In the prone posture, rifle or aiming point accelerations were neither associated with shooting performance nor with each other. In the standing posture, vertical rifle accelerations right before triggering were negatively associated with Hit(Dist) (r = -0.70, p < 0.05), whereas aiming point accelerations were not associated with Hit(Dist). Horizontal rifle accelerations were positively associated with aiming point accelerations in standing (r = 0.74, p = 0.024), whereas vertical or resultant rifle accelerations did not demonstrate associations with aiming point accelerations. In both postures, rifle accelerations were of the same magnitude in the most and least accurate shots.Conclusion: Rifle and aiming point accelerations provide limited description of the technical level in biathlon shooting. Moreover, rifle accelerations alone do not appear to provide sufficient information to deduce the aiming point movements. Angular movement would likely be required for aiming point movement estimation.

  • 46.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Comparison of shooting technical factors between female and male biathletes2020Conference paper (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Earlier studies in biathlon standing shooting have revealed that body sway is related to rifle stability and associates to shooting accuracy (1, 2). However, discrepant findings exist about the effect of vertical and horizontal rifle sway on shooting accuracy (3). In addition, shooting accuracy in standing position tends to be slightly higher for TOP5 females (85 vs 82%) compared to males but no sex differences in shooting technical factors have been reported earlier. The present study aimed to compared how different shooting technical factors associates to BIA shooting performance between female and male biathletes.METHODS:17 female (22 (4) yr) and 16 male (22 (5) yr) Swedish biathletes including World Championship and Olympic medal winners were recruited. Shooting performance and technical factors were first determined at rest (2x5 shots), followed by 10 min warm-up and maximal double poling ergometer test for 1000 m to achieve the maximal heart rate (HRmax). After 10 min of passive recovery, the biathletes performed 2x5 min double poling exercise at 92 (1) % of the HRmax to simulate the physical exercise effort during biathlon competition (BCS) followed by 5-shots after both exercise bouts. Opto-electronical device was used to assess shooting accuracy (group size of the shots, GS, mm; average shooting result, RES, points) as well as horizontal (HOR) and vertical (VER) rifle speeds (mm/s), and triggering pressure (TRIG, %) during the last 0.2 s before each shot. Shooting was performed only in standing position. The effect of sex (female and male) and shooting condition (rest and exercise) was evaluated using 2-way ANOVA. Associations between shooting technical factors and shooting performance (GS and RES) were determined using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Data is presented as mean (standard deviation).RESULTS:Shooting performance was higher for females at rest (GS 26 (9) vs 32 (11) mm; RES 7.2(1.0) vs 6.6 (1.4)) and after exercise (GS 26 (6) vs 32 (5) mm; RES 6.6 (1.1) vs 5.5 (1.5)) (both p<0.01). RES also decreased from rest to exercise in both sexes (p<0.01). HOR (p<0.01) and VER (p<0.001) increased from rest (HOR 8 (3) vs 10 (3) mm/s; VER 7 (2) vs 8 (3) mm/s) to exercise (HOR 11 (5) vs 13 (3) mm/s; VER 9 (2) vs 12 (2) mm/s) in both sexes but were lower for females (both p<0.05). No differences in triggering pressure were observed between shooting conditions or sexes. At rest, HOR and VER correlated significantly with GS (r=0.67 - 0.78, p<0.01) and RES (r=-0.59 - -0.87, p<0.05) in both sexes. After exercise, only VER was associated to GS (r=0.54) and RES (r=-0.61) for females whereas only HOR was associated to GS (r=0.80) and RES (r=-0.66, all p<0.01) for males.CONCLUSION:Females demonstrated slower rifle speed before triggering at rest which was also related to higher shooting performance compared to males. Different rifle motion pattern between sexes were observed during BCS which might explain the difference in shooting performance between sexes.

  • 47.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    The Acute Effects of Exercise on Skeletal Muscle Blood Flow: Positron Emission Tomography Studies in Healthy Subjects2005Doctoral thesis, comprehensive summary (Other academic)
  • 48.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Ainegren, Mats
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Engineering and Sustainable Development.
    Lisspers, Jan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Social Sciences.
    Effects of combined relaxation and shooting training on shooting performance in biathlon2009In: Effects of combined relaxation and shooting training on shooting performance in biathlon, 2009Conference paper (Refereed)
  • 49.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Ainegren, Mats
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Science, Technology and Media, Department of Engineering and Sustainable Development.
    Lisspers, Jan
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Social Sciences.
    Evidence of improved shooting precision in biathlon after 10-weeks of combined relaxation and specific shooting training2011In: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, ISSN 1650-6073, E-ISSN 1651-2316, Vol. 40, no 4, p. 237-250Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that a combined relaxation (applied tension release, ATR) and specific shooting training regimen may enhance shooting ability of biathlon athletes. Seven biathletes of high national level were randomized into an experimental group (age 20 ± 5 years; Vo 2max 60 ± 8 mL kg− 1 min− 1) and were asked to add this special training intervention to their regular training for 10 weeks, while five other biathletes served as controls (age 19 ± 2 years; Vo 2max 57 ± 10 mL kg− 1 min− 1). The shooting ability of the subjects was assessed before and after the intervention at rest and after roller skiing on a treadmill in a laboratory-based competition simulating assessment. After the intervention period, the experimental group demonstrated a significantly enhanced shooting performance compared to the control group. No changes in Vo 2max or in heart rate and Vo 2 responses were observed before and after the intervention in either group and there were no differences between the groups in these parameters. Thus, the preliminary conclusion is that a combination of ATR and specific shooting training seems to be instrumental in enhancing the shooting performance in biathlon.

  • 50.
    Laaksonen, Marko
    et al.
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Andersson, Erik
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Jonsson Kårström, Malin
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Lindblom, Hampus
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    McGawley, Kerry
    Mid Sweden University, Faculty of Human Sciences, Department of Health Sciences.
    Laboratory-Based Factors Predicting Skiing Performance in Female and Male Biathletes2020In: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, E-ISSN 2624-9367, Vol. 2, article id 99Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Skiing in biathlon is a high-intensity, intermittent endurance discipline. This study aimed to evaluate the relationships between laboratory-derived physiological variables and skiing performance during a field-based biathlon competition (BC) for female and male biathletes. Fourteen female (23 ± 3 year, VO2max 56 ± 4 mL·kg−1·min−1) and 14 male (24 ± 4 year, VO2max 66 ± 3 mL·kg−1·min−1) biathletes performed a submaximal incremental test and a maximal time-trial (TT) using treadmill roller-skiing for the assessment of oxygen uptake at a lactate threshold of 4 mmol·L−1 (VO2@4mmol), gross efficiency (GE), aerobic (MRae) and anaerobic (MRan) metabolic rates, peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), anaerobic capacity and TT performance. Field-based skiing performance was assessed during a BC. The TT and BC skiing performances were significantly correlated in both sexes (r = 0.68–0.69, p < 0.01). VO2peak (31/21%), anaerobic capacity (1/0%), and GE (35/32%) explained 67 and 52% of the variance in BC skiing performance for the females (p < 0.01) and males (p = 0.051), respectively. A second model showed that VO2@4mmol (30/35%), anaerobic capacity (0/0%) and GE (37/13%) explained 67 and 48% of the variance in BC skiing performance for the females (p < 0.01) and males (p = 0.077), respectively. Results of this study suggest that a high VO2@4mmol and GE, but not anaerobic capacity, are important for BC skiing performance, especially for females. In addition, a laboratory-based TT could be useful for regular laboratory testing of biathletes due to its relationship with field-based skiing performance in biathlon.

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