The Influence of a Fast Start Versus a Conservative Start Pacing Strategy on Sprint Roller Skiing Performance in Highly Trained Female Junior Skiers

Abstract Purpose Pacing profiles differ substantially in endurance sports with short competition duration (2–4 min). Herein, we investigated the effect of a fast start (FS) versus conservative (CS) pacing strategy on sprint time-trial performance competitive junior cross-country skiers. Methods Sixteen females (~ 17 years old) performed two individual self-paced 1.4 km time-trials (TT) free technique roller skis separated by 40 min recovery. Skiers were instructed to perform FS and CS first ~ 400-m 1 min) randomized order. Split finish time was determined using radio-based photocells, while speed characteristics collected GNSS/IMU sensors. 1–10 Rate perceived exertion (RPE) retrospectively for 3 points during TT. Based mean performance, skiers divided into Low- ( n = 8) High performers 8). Results Overall, induced faster (56.0 ± 3.8 s) than (58.7 3.4 P < 0.05), but no differences times found between strategies group as whole (FS: 213.3 12.0 s; CS, 212.9 10.3 s, 0.68). However, skied (203.4 7.4 s vs. 205.1 7.1 0.8% 0.7%, whereas Low (220.7 6.1 223.1 5.0 1.1% 1.0%, 0.05). Independent level, summated RPE TT higher (23 2 22 2, Conclusion Optimal skiing appears dependent level. A “fast start” accompanied discomfort time-trial.