Generating Vertical Velocity and Angular Momentum during Skating Jumps

Albert and Miller (1997) performed an analysis of vertical velocity and angular momentum for single and double Axels. Their results indicate that both radial and tangential motion of the skater are critical to the generation of vertical velocity throughout the take-off of single and double Axels. In generating angular momentum during the take-off, the movement of the free leg was most critical. The authors surmised that the movement of the fee leg creates an eccentric horizontal ground reaction force with a moment consistent with the rotational direction of the jump. The purpose of this study was to expand upon the study of Albert and Miller (1997) and investigate the techniques used by athletes in generating vertical velocity and angular momentum in single, double, and triple Axels.