Mid Sweden University

The present study investigated the physiological characteristics of eight world class (WC) and eight national class (NC) Norwegian sprint cross-country skiers. To measure physiological response and treadmill performance, the skiers performed a submaximal test, a peak aerobic capacity (VO_2peak) test, and a peak treadmill speed (V_peak) test in the skating G3 technique. Moreover, the skiers were tested for G3 acceleration outdoors on asphalt and maximal strength in the lab. The standard of sprint skating performance level on snow was determined by FIS points, and the training distribution was quantified. WC skiers showed 8%higher VO_2peak and twice as long VO₂ plateau time at the VO_2peak test, and higher gross efficiency (GE) at the submaximal test (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, WC skiers showed 8%higher V_peak (P < 0.05), but did not differ from NC skiers in acceleration and maximal strength. WC skiers performed more low and moderate-intensity endurance training and speed training (both P < 0.05). The current results indicate that aerobic capacity, efficiency and high speed capacity differentiate WC and NC sprint skiers and are strong determinants of sprint performance.