Performance and injury risk assessment in figure skating: axel jump biomechanics.

To remain internationally competitive in figure skating, athletes must be able to perform jumps safely. The axel jump has been considered traditionally the most difficult jump and as athletes trains since very young age, it is fundamental to recognize landing techniques rising injury risk. This study presents a biomechanical analyses of figure skating axel jump, with the aim to detect injury risk factors associated to poor landing kinetics and kinematics. Results agreed with the athletes’ coach technical evaluations.