Tesis sobre el tema "Figure skating"

Figure skating includes ice based locomotion, jumping and dance elements. It is limited by physiological, psychological, technical and tactical factors. Optimising performance requires guidance from coaches educated in; "Coaching", "Training", "Testing", "Nutrition" and "Biomechanics". AIMS: Acquire British coaches' self assessed knowledge levels. Independently evaluate coaches' efficacy. Identify an area of deficit in coach understanding. Using the area of coaching, "Testing", develop a valid and repeatable skating specific aerobic fitness test. Identify the role of aerobic fitness in competitive performance and its effect on a skill based jump element; An Axel. METHODS: The entire coaching population was surveyed. An objective multidimensional model measured efficacy in the respondent 12.5%. Pilot testing established a suitable track protocol for a progressive /O2 peak skating test (ISE test). 20 skaters performed the ISE test, running and laboratory V02 peak tests. 11 skaters repeated the ISE test twice. 10 skaters performed a videoed competitive routine simulation and 10 skaters performed Axels before and after an exhaustive drill. In both instances physiological, quantitative, qualitative and ISE " O2 peak were measured. RESULTS: Coaches rated their knowledge lowest and identified least methods of erudition available in "Testing" and "Biomechanics". Objective measurement identified mean coaching efficacy at 30%. ISE test VO2 peak was lower (p<0.002) but highly correlated (p<0.01) to laboratory V02. Linear regression adjusted ISE test values. Retrial repeatability fell between Bland and Altman limits. On ice "O2 peak was independent of routine heart rate and post exercise blood lactate but correlated to Axel take off (p<0.05) and height (p<0.01). These correlations were consistent in Axels' post exhaustive exercise (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Testing is a coaching deficit which would benefit from research. The ISE test provides valid and repeatable V02 peak measures. Higher V02 peak does not reduce routine stress but influences Axel performance. Higher aerobic capacity improves Axel performance under physiological stress

Aim: The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of different figure skating boots on kinetic and kinematic properties of the landing impact. The focus was on the vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) and kinematic differences between the examined boots duringthe landing impact as well as the material and construction design differences between the boots. The hypothesis was that different figure skating boots (Graf Edmonton and Edea Concerto) differently affect the VGRF and kinematics during the landing impact so some figure skating boots may reduce the impact at landing and could therefore possibly prevent injuries. Method: Six subjects each simulated figure skating landings wearing two different types ofskates from two different heights, on artificial ice. Differences were investigated between the boots in angular position of individual body segments and in the VGRF that acts between the skate and a force platform underneath a plastic ice surface, as well as the force which acts between the skate and the foot. The landings were examined with a Pedar-X in-shoe pressure measuring system, a Kistler force plate and a Qualysis motion capture system. The obtained values of each variable were statistically compared between the boots using SPSS. Results: Statistically significant (p≤0.05) differences between the boots were seen in the degree of right ankle and knee joint flexion during the initial landing impact, in the degree of right ankle joint peak flexion, as well as in the force magnitude experienced by the right foot during the landing impacts as well as for the area under the max force-time curve. Furthermore, differences were seen in the construction design, materials, sizes of the outsole and in the stiffness. Conclusions: This research suggests there are differences in lower extremity VGRF and kinematic effects of landing impact when using different boots. It also suggests that some figure skating boots reduce the loading on the human body during the landing impacts more than others and therefore could help in preventing injuries.

Expectations for performance, such as an expectation set by within team order in gymnastics (Scheer & Ansorge, 1975; 1980), have been shown to create a non-performance bias in terms of sport performance evaluation. Plessner (1999) found such a bias to influence both the encoding and evaluation phases of gymnastics judgement. In the sport of figure skating, the encoding phase is considered the period during which a judge perceives elements and any errors that may occur. After the performance is complete, judges evaluate the merit of the performance by providing two marks that are combined to create an ordinal rank, which is considered the evaluation phase of judging. The current study investigated whether or not expectations created by the reputation, or name, of an athlete occurs in the sport of figure skating, and if so, in what phase of the process, encoding or evaluation. Fourteen female figure skaters' short programs were viewed by judges to whom the athletes were either known or unknown. Judges were asked to provide technical base marks, technical merit, and artistic impression marks (all indicative of the evaluation phase), as well as to identify the elements and associated deductions (the encoding phase variables). Post-experiment, the ordinal placements of the skaters were calculated and used to define whether biases do exist at a basic level. Indeed, the skaters' average ordinal placement was higher when they were known by the judge as compared to unknown (t = 2.43, p < .05). A more in-depth analysis revealed that skaters received higher technical merit and artistic impression marks, as well as technical base marks when known to the judges. No significant differences, however, were found for deductions allocated for errors or for the judges' percent correctness in perceiving the elements performed. Thus, the findings suggest that a reputation bias exists at the level of the evaluation phase, but not during the encoding phase, of figure skating judging.

Projeto de Graduação apresentado à Universidade Fernando Pessoa como parte dos requisitos para obtenção do grau de Licenciada em Fisioterapia
A patinagem artística exige várias capacidades condicionais, tal como flexibilidade, resistência, força, mas também pode ser considerada como uma arte. As lesões mais frequentes são as de sobreuso e o local de maior ocorrência é o membro inferior. Objetivo: Analisar as características de lesões na Patinagem Artística, assim como as várias características das lesões na época de 2011/2012 no Clube de Patinagem do Marco de Canaveses. Metodologia: Foram realizadas entrevistas individuais para recolha de dados relativos ao treino e às lesões. Efetuaram-se avaliações da composição corporal e das medidas antropométricas (altura, peso e pregas subcutâneas) a 24 atletas de patinagem artística agrupadas em 8 escalões. Resultados: 76% dos patinadores sofreram lesões na época desportiva de 2011/2012. As lesões foram maioritariamente traumáticas (68,4%), o tipo de lesão com maior prevalência foi a contusão (42,1%), a articulação do joelho foi a mais afetada (57,9%) e as lesões graves foram as mais frequentes (42,1%). Relativamente ao recurso da fisioterapia, houve uma adesão de 40%. Conclusão: A prevalência de lesões foi considerada elevada (76%). Não existiu relação entre as variáveis a prevalência de lesões. Artistic skating requires multiple conditional capabilities, such as flexibility, endurance, strength, but can also be considered as an art. The most frequent injuries are those of overuse and the most frequent location is the lower limb. Aim: To analyze the characteristics of injuries in Artistic Skating, as well as the various features of injuries in the 2011/2012 season at the Skating Club of Marco de Canaveses. Methodology: Individual interviews were held to gather data concerning the training and injuries. It was carried out an evaluation of body composition and anthropometric measures (height, weight and subcutaneous fold) to 24 athletes of artistic skating grouped into eight levels. Results: 76% of skaters suffered injuries in the sport season of 2011/2012. The injuries were mostly traumatic (68.4%), the type of injury with the highest prevalence was the contusion (42.1%), the knee joint was the most affected (57.9%) and severe injuries were the most frequent (42.1%). Regarding the use of physiotherapy, there was an accession of 40%. Conclusion: The prevalence of injuries was considered high (76%). There was no relation between the variables and the prevalence of injuries.

This study investigated whether self-modeling would positively affect intermediate level figure skaters' self-efficacy, state anxiety, motivation, and jump performance more than physical practice alone. Twelve female skaters (M = 13.38 years of age, SD = 1.35) participated in a four week study where they received a self-modeling intervention (SM) for one jump and no modeling (SM-C) for a second jump. They were also compared with a separate control group (CON) of 7 skaters (M = 14.20 years of age, SD = 2.35) who received no intervention for both jumps. Analyses revealed no significant differences between the three conditions. This indicates that while no transfer effects existed between the SM and SM-C conditions, the self-modeling intervention also failed to enhance figure skaters' psychological and physical performance. The athletes' skill level, their perception of the intervention, the characteristics of the task, and the type of self-modeling employed are all discussed as possible explanations for this lack of results. Further empirical examination of self-modeling is recommended to clarify these issues.

Figure skating and hockey are two sports that currently are gendered as feminine and masculine, respectively. This study originated in my concern that gendered sports may be a discouragement to youth participation. This research project was undertaken in order to understand how figure skating and hockey are gendered in a community arena in rural British Columbia and how this might impact youth involvement. My methods included participant observation, interviews, and focus groups. The data from these ethnographic techniques are interpreted according to the concept that people both actively reinforce and resist the gendering of their sport. As a result of the study, I found that gendering hockey as masculine was often contested by female hockey players. Although females in recreational hockey seem to be largely accepted and welcome on mixed teams, the opposite was the case for females pursuing hockey competitively alongside their male peers. Gendering figure skating as feminine was largely uncontested, in part due to the lack of males participating in the sport. In addition, the interactions between hockey players and figure skaters frequently served to reinforce the gendering of these two sports. The key recommendation from this study is for both groups to be aware that the gendering of their sports seems to be a subconscious deterrent and they should take steps to counteract this trend.

Figure skating is a competitive sport that requires intensive training which can be taught in a variety of settings. There are various methods to teaching figure skaters new skills such as positive and corrective feedback, modeling and coaching procedures, and physical guidance. These different approaches may lead to a lack of consistency among coaches. Over the years, these established coaching strategies have not changed substantially as training methods are passed down from coach to student. Also, research in the area of what constitutes effective coaching methods is lacking. Skaters may progress more quickly in skill development if coaches are implementing empirically based successful coaching methods. These teaching approaches may also be enhanced by incorporating the latest technology available. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a video feedback coaching procedure using the Dartfish application. A multiple baseline design was utilized to document the impact of this video feedback coaching procedure on the demonstration of six established figure skating moves, three moves for one skater and three different moves for two other skaters. Results showed utilizing video feedback improved figure skater's performance levels on the targeted moves to an acquisition of 80% accuracy or higher.

Trends in pairs figure skating have shown that increasingly difficult jumps have become an essential aspect of high-level performance, especially in the latter part of a competitive program. We compared a repeated jump power index in a 60 s repeated jump test to determine the relationship of repeated jump test to competitive rank and to measure 2D hip, knee, and ankle angles and angular velocities at 0, 20, 40, and 60 s. Eighteen National Team Pairs Figure Skaters performed a 60 s repeated jump test on a large switch-mat with timing of flight and ground durations and digital video recording. Each 60-s period was divided into 6, 10-s intervals, with power indexes (W/kg) calculated for each 10-s interval. Power index by 10-s interval repeated measures ANOVAs (RMANOVA) showed that males exceeded females at all intervals, and the highest power index interval was during 10 to 20 s for both sexes. RMANOVAs of angles and angular velocities showed main effects for time only. Power index and jumping techniques among figure skaters showed rapid and steady declines over the test duration. Power index can predict approximately 50% of competitive rank variance, and sex differences in jumping technique were rare.

Figure skaters skate a fine line as they navigate pressures to execute physically demanding, technical skills while maintaining the aesthetics of movements, appearance, and musicality. These conditions along with embedded narratives of success and performance affect the experiences of every competitive figure skater. As a former figure skater and coach, in this research, I explore the experiences of figure skaters and the inherent tensions they endure (Clandinin, Murphy, Huber, & Orr, 2009). Integrating theories and methods from organizational culture and narrative inquiry, my research explores the experiences of athletes within the culture of high-performance figure skating. I recruited seven former figure skaters (four female and three male) who had competed at a Senior Competitive level in Canada. The research followed three guiding questions: • What tensions do former figure skaters identify in relation to their experience as high-performance figure skaters? • How are these tensions related to the organizational culture of figure skating? • How do participants reflect on these tensions over time? Using artifacts to elicit conversations and reflections, I completed three to four interviews with each participant. I present their stories in a variety of narrative formats to better capture the feel of the interviews and their lived experiences. The figure skaters experienced multiple tensions across their careers as they embraced the lifestyle of a skater and during transitions away from the sport. Tensions included monitoring bodies, an overriding emphasis on competitions and winning, and the importance of music, choreography, and appearance in their overall performance as elite figure skaters. While many tensions were taken-for-granted as being a high-performance athlete, once removed from the sport, participants became aware of the sacrifices they had made and how some aspects of the culture had influenced their mental health and well-being. A critical analysis of the normalized aspects of the sport revealed an emphasis on performance deeply embedded across all levels of figure skating’s organizational culture (Schein, 2010). The dissertation highlights how participants became part of the problematic culture, accepting its localized terms and conditions which in turn served to reinforce and re-create the culture’s dominant values and norms (Alvesson, 2013; Smircich, 1983).
Education, Faculty of
Kinesiology, School of
Graduate

 Abstract

This thesis is based on two questions: What are the differences in the outcome of a sport event depending on the choice of method to be used for evaluation? And what method is the most appropriate one in terms of evaluation of the economic effects of sport events? There are two methods used: and the first one is the traditional multiplier analysis and the second method used is introduced by Braunerhielm and Andersson (2007). The economic results of the two different methods used in this thesis have been applied on a real life event, The European Championships in Figure Skating in Malmo City 2003. The two methods is of great importance and they provide us with two suggested results that are of interest, but what method to be used depends on who is making the evaluation and for what purpose. The suggested method by Braunerhielm and Andersson (2007) results in an outcome representing the economic effects of the event concerning all areas in the municipality involved both the private sector and the public sector. This method is of best use for athlete organizations that wants to keep a continuous record of their contribution towards the municipality through events and the positive result will help them promote their importance of existence to the municipality so that they can get public funding for arranging future events and gain more profit by increasing the interest of their association. Whereas,the multiplier analysis is appropriate to use for the municipality, as the results is the tax revenue gained from the event that is to be reinvested in e.g. new schools or roads the result will then help promoting the public funding of sport events to the public. The appropriate method to use is the multiplier analysis as it generates results that is of interest for the public as it calculates the effect for the municipality as a whole and not only the effects for the once directly involved in the sport event.

 

A patinação artística se desenvolveu ao longo dos anos, até tornar-se o esporte de competição visto atualmente. Contudo, existe pouca informação na literatura a respeito da intensidade das sessões de treino desta modalidade e se existiria uma maneira de expor o atleta a um menor número de impactos dos saltos durante o treino, mas atingir os mesmos benefícios. Sendo assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar os efeitos de dois tipos de sessão de treino de patinação sobre parâmetros fisiológicos e neuromusculares de atletas da patinação artística sobre rodas. Nove atletas (17,7 ± 2,96 anos) realizaram dois diferentes tipos de sessão de treino, de forma randomizada: uma sessão convencional (conv) (na qual o número de saltos e os intervalos realizados foram determinados pelo técnico das atletas, conforme o treinamento normalmente realizado pelas mesmas, resultando em uma média de 139 ± 31,2 saltos) e uma sessão sistematizada (sist) (na qual foram realizados 96 saltos, com intervalo de 6 s entre cada salto, 2 a 3 min entre cada repetição (conjunto de oito saltos) e 5 min a cada quatro repetições). As atletas foram avaliadas antes, imediatamente após, 5 min, 10 min, 15 min, 30 min, 24h, 48h e 72h após a realização das sessões, em parâmetros relacionados à atividade muscular, taxa de produção de força, altura e potência dos saltos squat jump (SJ), counter movement jump (CMJ) e drop jump (DJ) e concentração sanguínea de creatina quinase e de lactato. Foi utilizado o Teste T para amostras pareadas para a comparação entre as sessões nos diferentes momentos, sendo adotado um α=0,05 como significância (SPSS v. 17.0). Foram observadas algumas diferenças significativas entre as sessões, dentre elas, na concentração sanguínea de lactato no momento 15 min após (conv: 1,47 ± 0,45 mmol; sist: 1,03 ± 0,25 mmol; p=0,044) e na altura dos saltos SJ, no momento 72h após (conv: 0,20 ± 0,06 m; sist: 0,18 ± 0,06 m; p=0,012), e CMJ, também no momento 72h após (conv: 0,21 ± 0,06 m; sist: 0,20 ± 0,06 m; p=0,008). Porém, de maneira geral, foram observadas poucas diferenças significativas entre as sessões de treino avaliadas no presente estudo, o que indica que ambas representaram uma intensidade semelhante de treino. No caso da sessão sistematizada, os achados confirmam a hipótese de que uma sessão de treino com número de saltos e tempo de intervalo definidos seria uma alternativa interessante de expor menos o atleta a uma grande quantidade de impacto e, ainda assim, atingir os mesmos resultados de uma sessão convencional.
Artistic roller skating has been developed over the years to become the competitive sport currently seen. However, little information exists in the literature regarding the intensity of the practices of this sport and if there could be a way to expose the athlete to a lower number of impacts of the jumps during training, but at the same time to achieve the same benefits. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare the effects of two types of skating training session on physiological and neuromuscular parameters of roller figure skaters. Nine female athletes (17.7 ± 2.96 years) realized two different types of skating training session: a conventional session (conv) (in which the number of jumps and the intervals were determined by the athlete’s coach, according to their normal training scheme, resulting in a mean of 139 ± 31,2 jumps) and a systematized session (syst) (in which 96 jumps were performed with intervals of 6 s between each jump, 2 to 3 min between each repetition (set of eight jumps) and 5 min every four repetitions). Evaluations were done before, immediately after, 5 min, 10 min, 15 min, 30 min, 24h, 48h and 72h after the sessions in parameters related to muscular activity, rate of force development, height and power of squat jump (SJ), counter movement jump (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ) and blood concentration of creatine kinase and lactate. Paired T Test was utilized for the comparison between sessions at the different time points, with an α=0,05 as significance (SPSS v. 17.0). Some significative differences between sessions were observed, as in the blood concentration of lactate at the moment 15 min after (conv: 1,47 ± 0,45 mmol; syst: 1,03 ± 0,25 mmol; p=0,044) and in the heights of SJ at the moment 72h after (conv: 0,20 ± 0,06 m; syst: 0,18 ± 0,06 m; p=0,012), and CMJ, also at the moment 72h after (conv: 0,21 ± 0,06 m; syst: 0,20 ± 0,06 m; p=0,008). However, there were overall few significant differences between the sessions evaluated in the present study, what indicates that both represent a similar training intensity. For the systematized session, the findings support the hypothesis that a training session with defined number of jumps and rest intervals could be an alternative to expose less the athlete to a large amount of impact and yet get the same results of a conventional session.

Aim: The intention of this study was to examine whether different brands and models of skating boots differently affect the kinetic and kinematic properties of a landing impact from a jump. The differences were tested between new figure skating boots Graf Edmonton, new Edea Concerto and old used Graf Edmonton. Method: Subjects simulated a figure skating jump landing by landing from a counter movement jump off boxes of two different heights onto artificial ice in the Biomechanics and Motor Control (BMC) laboratory. During these jumps the subjects wore figure skating boots of different age and types. Landing impacts were examined by Qualisys motion capture system, Kistler force plate and Pedar-X in-shoe force and pressure measuring system. Each subject acted as his own control for comparison of kinetic and kinematic variables between the skates. Statistical comparison was carried out in SPSS. Results: The research results indicate that the kinetic and kinematic properties of a landing impact significantly (P≤0.05) differed depending on the tested skates. Significant differences were found between new Graf Edmonton and old used Graf Edmonton, between new Graf Edmonton and new Edea Concerto as well as between old used Graf Edmonton and new Edea Concerto. Conclusions: The first research hypothesis was accepted, indicating that reduced vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) acted in new Edea Concerto compared to new and old, used Graf Edmonton boots. The second research hypothesis was rejected since the VGRF acting during the landing impact in old, used Graf Edmonton was greater compared to new Edea Concerto and there was no significant difference compared to new Graf Edmonton boots. The differences between the figure skating boots found in this research are suggested to be caused by different construction designs and materials used in the skates.

Kursen Projektarbete.

Sammanfattning Syftet med studien är att undersöka om tidig specialisering är en förutsättning för att uppnå elitnivå inom de estetiska idrotterna konståkning och truppgymnastik samt försöka få en förståelse för vilka för- och nackdelar tidig specialisering kan tänkas få för individen och den framtida elitkarriären. Följande frågeställningar skall besvaras i studien: Hur ser idrottsbakgrunden ut för samtliga landslagsutövarna inom konståkning och truppgymnastik? Hur beskriver landslagsutövarna sin idrottskarriär, inklusive eventuell specialisering och diversifiering? Metod En deduktiv enkät med totalt 7 frågor skickades ut till de 34 landslagsutövarna för att få en överblick över/kring hur deras idrottsbakgrund såg ut. 29 stycken valde att svara varav 14 var kvinnor och 15 var män, 10 konståkare och 18 truppgymnaster. Därefter kunde intervjupersonerna väljas utifrån de svar de angivit och som ansågs relevanta för studien, 2 från varje sport, 2 män och 2 kvinnor, med olika bakgrund inom sporterna. En semistrukturerad intervjuguide skapades för att samla så mycket information från deltagarna som möjligt. Efter transkribering togs citat ut och en induktiv metod användes för att skapa en modell med de svar som angivits av atleterna. Resultat Studien visade att det var stor spridning inom de båda landslagen gällande när atleterna börjat, specialiserat sig, utövat olika idrotter och dylikt. De fyra intervjupersonerna hade en mängd likheter och olikheter i deras väg till landslaget. Det skiljer sig i när de började utöva sporterna, några hade mest lek i träningen och andra tränade med målet att bli bättre redan första året. Kvinnorna hade fler skador än männen, endast en av de fyra atleterna hade slutat och tagit en paus i sin karriär. Stöttningen hemifrån och lagamraterna/kompisarna hade också olika stor inverkan på de fyra intervjupersonerna. Slutsats Tidig specialisering framkommer inte som ett måste för att nå det svenska landslaget i konståkning och truppgymnastik.

A patinagem artística é um desporto pouco reconhecido a diversos níveis, ainda que em franco crescimento. Enquanto modalidade de alta competição, implica técnica, interpretação e representação, exigindo uma performance elevada dos atletas (Lagoa, 2009; FPP, 2017), treinos rigorosos e intensos, podendo conduzir a um aumento do risco de lesão (Porter, Young, Niedfeldt, & Gottschlich, 2007). Este estudo pretende contribuir para colmatar alguma escassez de resultados empíricos e estudos, que incidam sobre patinadores artísticos. Com este estudo, pretendemos inventariar o historial de lesões e queixas físicas de patinadores artísticos, associando-as à sua tipologia, causas e mecanismos, bem como às especificidades da prática. Os resultados deste estudo apontam a alteração do regime de treinos e a manutenção do equipamento como comportamentos de risco para o desenvolvimento de lesão. Aponta, igualmente, para a zona do joelho e do tornozelo como zonas potenciais de lesão do patinador, especialmente do patinador de patinagem livre; PHYSICAL COMPLAINS AND INJURIES RELATED TO THE PRACTICE OF ARTISTIC ROLLER SKATING IN PORTUGAL: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY ABSTRACT: Although is noticeable growth, Figure skating is an underrated sport at several levels. As a competitive sport it demands for technical skills, interpretation and representation, requiring skaters high performance levels (Lagoa, 2009; FPP, 2017), as well as intensive and systematic training, which may lead to an increase in injury risk (Porter, Young, Niedfeldt, & Gottschlich, 2007). This study aims to contribute for the lack of empiric and research results on figure skaters, by listing injury and physical complaints of an artistic skater´s group, associating them with its typology, causes and practice specificity. Results show that dramatic changes in training plans and persistent equipment maintenance and change my be seen as injury associated behaviour. It also points to the knee and ankle areas as potencial injury areas, specially in freestyle skaters.

Dance figure skating – A comparison between a score executed on ice and on floor This work derives from a curiosity of how figure skating and contemporary dance as two different art formscould work together. In what ways can different techniques within the fields of contemporary dance and figureskating inspire and develop each other? Video analysis together with introspection are used as methods. A scorewith different techniques from each field is recorded on the ice and on the floor. This material together with awritten introspection contains the base for the analysis and discussion together with relevant literature from thetwo fields. There are both similarities and clashes when analysing the results of the scores. Gliding and being onedges are fundamentals in figure skating and they are not transferable to floor. Falling and catching the fall issomething that turns out to be restricted to the floor since the skates makes edges while leaning and glidinginstead of falling. There are more explorations to be done when it comes to merging the two art forms together,hopefully this essay will give some inspiration to further work within contemporary skating.

碩士
亞洲大學
EMBA高階經理碩士在職學位學程
107
Quality Innovation and Value Elevation for Sporting Goods Industry -A Case Study for Figure Skating Blades Postgraduate: Porter Chen. Advising Professor: Chun-Wei R. Lin Co-Advising Professor: Yuh-Jiuan Parng Department of Business Administration Asia University Abstract The current industry of high quality figure skating blades production is centralized in Europe. If Taiwan’s manufacturers fail to upgrade the quality and increase its value, they will fall in the “Red Sea” market and forced to compete with lowering prices. And eventually, they will be eliminated from the competitive markets. In other words, the only way to survive is to get into the “Blue Sea” market for Taiwan’s manufacturers, i.e., producing professional figure skating blades. Taiwan is moving to the Industrial 4.0. environment. Consequently, the labor cost goes up, the company benefits requires better offers, and working hours for operators continuously reducing. In order to cope with skyrocketing production cost and maintaining good company profit, to continuously innovate good quality products and elevate the value of products is the only solution to get survived. To improve the hardness and coating surface polish are two key elements for high quality figure skating blades which requires sound industry experience and professional knowledge. The objectives of this research are as follows: 1. To improve product value, German-make high-carbon steel is adopted. 2. To improve product quality, a complete set of heat treatment design of experiments is conducted. 3. To improve blade surface polish, a new polishing material and grinding process are identified. 4. To deliver better product value, an improved electroplate process is iii developed. The research results successfully resolve the aforementioned objectives. The resultant blades manufacturing process demonstrates economical and mass production capability which is able to acquire high quality and high unit price orders from European buyers. Keywords: Value elevation, Quality Innovation, Manufacturing Quality

Title of diploma thesis: Specific foot changes in figure skaters and options for their physiotherapeutic intervention. Objective: The purpose of this thesis is to research available literary sources concerning anatomy, kinesiology and biomechanics of foot and foot arch in relation to specific foot changes resulting from figure skating. In addition, the thesis seeks to research various physiotherapeutic approaches which could be applied in prevention, compesation or therapy of these changes. Methods: This diploma thesis has descriptively-analytical character. It is structured in the form of literary research. Results: On the basis of the researched literary sources, this thesis provides a comprehensive picture on the topic of foot in figure skaters. Based on the research, the thesis identifies foot changes resulting from deformation of the foot in the skate. Subsequently, the thesis discussess the possible physiotherapeutic approaches which can be applied in prevention, compensation or therapy of these changes. Key words: foot, figure skating, flatfoot, physiotherapy

Enjoyment is a key motivational factor influencing both recreational and youth sport athletes (Scanlan, Stein & Ravizza,1989). The enjoyment and satisfaction experienced by athletes may affect their continued participation and success in sport. Athlete satisfaction and enjoyment can be derived from variables such as achievement recognition, competitive achievement, mastery and coach/athlete relationships. An understanding of effective coaching leadership has involved the study of coach personalities, coach behaviors, and coach-athlete interactions. The view that leadership effectiveness is a function of both situational and individual coach and athlete characteristics has gained general acceptance (Chelladurai, 1983). The Multi-dimensional Model of Leadership (Chelladurai & Carron, 1978).stresses that athlete satisfaction and performance are directly related to the congruency between athletes' preferences for specific coach behaviors and actual behaviors demonstrated by the coach. The fact that athlete satisfaction is affected by the display of and/or the frequency of specific nonverbal behaviors may have an important impact upon the coaching profession. The purpose of this study was to identify the commonalities and/ or differences in nonverbal behaviors displayed by National level figure skating coaches (3 male, 3 female) when coaching athletes of specific age (6-10, 12-15, and 16 years and older) and athletic maturity (Preliminary - Juvenile, Novice - Senior) levels. The relationship between the display of certain nonverbal behaviors and athlete satisfaction within each of the various categories of athletes was assessed, as was the satisfaction of these athletes with their coaches. Coaches were videotaped while instructing three female athletes within each age and athletic maturity level (three 15 minute lessons for each athlete). A Nonverbal Behavior Checklist was developed from these tapes. This list was then given to three judges who viewed one tape of each skater (randomly selected). Judges recorded the specific behaviors and frequency of these displays seen on each tape. An average frequency of display for the behaviors shown throughout the three tapes was calculated for each skater. A 2 (gender) X 3 (level) ANOVA was then performed on the average frequency of behaviors. The coaches bent forward while instructing the Preliminary - Juvenile skaters significantly more (p<0.01) than when instructing the Novice - Senior level skaters (12- 15 years or 16 years and older). They also "manually assisted" the younger skaters significantly more (p<0.01) than the Novice - Senior level skaters. Female coaches displayed "showing approval”, “prolonged social touch", " and cadence behaviors while instructing the athletes significantly more (p<0.01) than did the male coaches. The male coaches oriented themselves shoulder to shoulder with the athletes while the female coaches tended to stand at an angle, or obliquely to the athletes. The age and athletic maturity of the athletes had an effect upon their preference for certain coach behaviors. The Preliminary -Juvenile skaters (ages 6 - 10 years) and the Novice - Senior level skaters (ages 12 - 15 years) preferred to be "physically guided /maneuvered by their coach significantly more than did the Novice -Senior skaters (ages 16 years and older). When discussing sources of enjoyment received from skating, the Novice - Senior level skaters found competitive and performance achievement as a source of enjoyment whereas the Preliminary -Juvenile skaters tended to mention fun, learning, and doing skills as their sources of enjoyment.

Il pattinaggio artistico su ghiaccio è disciplina sportiva molto popolare in cui l’aspetto atletico e l’aspetto artistico trovano la loro massima unione. Come in molte altre discipline, gli infortuni sono comuni anche in questo sport. In particolare, gli ultimi 25 anni hanno visto un aumento dell’incidenza degli infortuni da sovraccarico nei pattinatori. Alcuni studi hanno ipotizzato che ciò sia dovuto alla necessità di dover presentare programmi dove i livelli tecnici sono sempre in crescita (ad esempio, con l'incremento di salti tripli e quadrupli). L'aumento del livello tecnico ha richiesto un incremento del numero di ore speso in allenamento, facendo accentuare di conseguenza i problemi derivanti dall’uso del pattino. Il primo obiettivo del mio progetto di Dottorato è stato quello di determinare la prevalenza degli infortuni da sovraccarico negli atleti di pattinaggio artistico su ghiaccio e di comprendere quali fra i fattori associati all’atleta o al pattino utilizzato si correlano a un maggior rischio di sviluppare infortuni. I risultati di questo studio dimostrano che l’area di maggior preoccupazione è quella del tallone, dove si è registrata la prevalenza di borsiti calcaneari profonde e superficiali. Questi risultati suggeriscono la necessità di un miglioramento del design della parte posteriore della scarpa. Questo studio dimostra anche che la maggiore flessibilità della caviglia nel pattino aumenta il rischio di sviluppo di borsiti calcaneari profonde nella gamba di atterraggio. Abbiamo inoltre dimostrato come la scelta della rigidezza del pattino debba essere fatta sulla base del peso dell’atleta (non solo sulla base del suo livello). Il recente aumento delle difficoltà tecniche nel pattinaggio artistico su ghiaccio ha portato i produttori di pattini ad aumentare la rigidezza della scarpa per proteggere la caviglia da eventuali traumi distorsivi negli atterraggi dai salti più difficili. Tuttavia, la maggiore rigidezza del pattino limita anche la dorsiflessione della caviglia, per cui l’atleta non riesce ad attenuare efficacemente l’impatto sviluppato all’atterraggio dai salti. Diversi studi ritengono che l'impatto col ghiaccio sia il responsabile di molti degli infortuni da sovraccarico nei pattinatori. Secondo obiettivo del progetto è stato quindi la valutazione dell’effetto di due variabili di design della scarpa da pattinaggio nel ridurre l’impatto generato all’atterraggio dei salti. Sono stati valutati l’utilizzo di un materiale viscoelastico dello spessore 1 mm posto come soletta o suola nella calzatura e la variazione dell'altezza del tacco (incrementata o diminuita di 6 mm rispetto allo standard). Nessuna delle due strategie ha dato un effetto significativo nelle variabili cinetiche misurate durante l’impatto piede-suolo. Ulteriori valutazioni sono necessarie per ripetere la stessa analisi eliminando la variabilità intra- e inter-soggetto presente in questa analisi, per esempio utilizzando un sistema meccanico che testi diversi tipi di prototipi di pattino simulando l’atterraggio piede-suolo. Durante il mio Dottorato ho affrontato anche un argomento di ricerca secondario: l’analisi degli errori nel planning preoperatorio eseguito per l’operazione di artroplastica di ginocchio. Quando l’artroplastica di ginocchio è implementata con le guide customizzate e secondo l’allineamento-cinematico, il planning preoperatorio è necessario per decidere in ambiente virtuale la posizione ideale della componente femorale sul femore distale e della componente tibiale sulla tibia prossimale utilizzando modelli 3D del ginocchio del paziente ottenuti da risonanza magnetica (MRI) o da tomografia computerizzata (CT). Siccome tutti modelli 3D sono generati con un certo grado di errore, la posizione della componente femorale e tibiale decisa durante il planning potrebbe risultare non ottimale, dato che viene calcolata a partire da un modello che descrive un'anatomia che non corrisponde esattamente a quella del paziente. La seconda parte della mia ricerca di Dottorato si è quindi focalizzata sullo sviluppo di una metodologia per analizzare gli errori nel planning preoperatorio causati da inaccuratezze nella morfologia dei modelli 3D del femore e della tibia ottenuti con MRI e CT. I risultati di questo studio hanno dimostrato che è possibile ottenere un modello 3D del femore da utilizzare come gold standard per confrontare i modelli ottenuti da MRI e CT con un accuratezza fino a 70 µm tramite due dei quattro sistemi di scansione laser 3D valutati. Inoltre, i fiducial markers e l’algoritmo di registrazione sviluppati in questo studio sono risultati promettenti per comparare i modelli 3D e i planning preoperativi ottenuti con MRI e CT. In particolare, la localizzazione dei marcatori è stata eseguita con errori di ripetibilità minore di 0.06 mm per CT e scansione laser, e minore di 0.25 mm per MRI. Gli errori nella registrazione dei modelli 3D risultano ancora troppo alti per valutare l’accuratezza del planning preoperatorio. Per concludere, i risultati di questo studio suggeriscono che per migliorare la registrazione dei modelli 3D si può ingrandire il diametro del marcatore, utilizzare la sonda tattile per scansionare i marker nel modello gold standard, oppure, nel caso della MRI, si possono scansionare i marcatori con un minore spessore delle slice rispetto al resto dell’anatomia.
Ice figure skating is a popular recreational and competitive sport where artistry and athleticism find their best mix, with an increasing participation to the sport in recent years. As in many other sports, injuries in ice figure skating are common. However, several studies reported an alarming increase of figure skaters suffering from injuries in the past 25 years, and suspected that the majority of these injuries are the consequence of the increased demand for technical difficulties in the programs, like triple and quadruple jumps. This increased demand has brought to an increased time spent on training activity which accentuated the problems derived by the use of the ice figure skate. To overcome the limitations of the present skate design, it is important to understand the main issues related to its use. Thus, the first aim of this Ph.D. research was to collect data about the prevalence of injuries in ice figure skaters and to understand which factors related to the athlete or the skate itself correlate with a specific type of injury. Our results suggested that the heel represents a major area of concern for the high prevalence of calcaneal bursitis and calluses in proximity of the Achilles tendon, suggesting that improvements on the boot heel cup design should take priority. The choice of the appropriate boot stiffness should take into account skaters’ weight in addition to the skating level, and boot retailers should be better educated to sell the appropriate boot size and stiffness to the skaters. The increased technical difficulties in the sport has also brought to an increase in the skating boot stiffness to protect the ankle from the most difficult jump landings. However, the increased boot stiffness prevent the skater’s foot and ankle from attenuating the impact developed in jump landings. This impact has been suggested to be responsible of the many overuse injuries that affect thousands of skaters every year. Hence, the second aim of this Ph.D. research was to test the effect of two design variables of the skating boot in reducing the landing impact. Our results showed that the use of a 1mm thickness viscoelastic insert, weather used as an insole or a sole under the boot, and a 6 mm reduction in the boot heel height do not appear to affect kinetic variables during jump landings. However, further investigation are needed to test the effectiveness of changes in boot heel height and viscoelastic inserts without the intra- and inter-subjects variability in jump landings, for example by using a mechanical testing device that can simulated the toe to heel landing of the athletes’ skate. This thesis investigates also a secondary topic, the evaluation of the errors in the preoperative planning for kinematically-aligned total knee arthroplasty when developed with three-dimensional bone models obtained from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Since the morphology of three-dimensional bone models obtained from MRI and CT is inaccurate to certain degree, then the preoperative planning may be inaccurate because based on a bony anatomy which differs from the one of the actual patient. Hence, my doctoral research focused on the development of a methodology to analyze the error in the preoperative planning caused by errors in the morphology of the bone models obtained with MRI and CT. First, our results suggested that a gold standard bone model can be obtained with a laser scanner system with a repeatability error below 70 μm and used as a reference to compare MRI and CT bone models. Secondly, this study shows that the marker-based methodology developed is promising to evaluate the difference in the bone models and thepreoperative plans for kinematically-aligned TKA. The identification of the location of the fiducial markers can be achieved with repeatability errors below 0.25 mm, but the error in the registration of the bone models was too high for the scope of this study. Further improvement includes evaluating the use of the hard probe to scan the markers for the gold standard model, increasing the size of the fiducial marker, and decreasing the slice thickness for the imageacquisition of the marker with the MRI.

Title: Experiences of trainers with conditioning preparation of figure skaters off ice Objectives: The thesis will focus mainly on specialized and general training of children of a given age category (JUNIORS 15-19 YEARS) and on motor tests suitable for testing the skills most needed for figure skating, but outside the ice. Although this issue is described, although there are not so many literatures in the Czech Republic. The trainers will be interviewed, which will then be processed into a comprehensive and clear form. Methods: The questioned group consisted of 8 coaches I. and II. coaching class of figure skating. Using a guided interview, we asked 10 questions in total. Questions were focused on fitness training of figure skaters off ice. Results: Evaluation of the results enabled us to find out some interesting facts. These include the use of a spinning bike, like form of imitation of HF after of with injuries. Another valuable piece of information was the use of a rotary auxiliary device to improve coordination and reduce knee load. we also learned that running training should be eliminated for the development of endurance due to the heavy load on the knees. Training in fresh air in all weather was also a positive finding for our needs. Overcoming the aversion to training in bad weather can...

Title: Compensatory exercise as a complement to the training schedule for children of younger school age in figure skating Objectives: The main aim of this work is to highlight muscle dysbalance and their subsequent weakening and hypermobility in younger school age children in figure skating. Based on these weaknesses, create a stack of release, stretching and exercise exercises that can be used under any circumstances. Methods: In my work, I used a Janda muscle test, an analytical method that was focused on determining the strength of each muscle group. In individual tests, we are not only measuring the muscular strength of the main muscle, but we also investigate and analyze the performance of the whole movement. I was based on qualitative and quantitative values. Results: The measured data were compared and evaluated according to the literature. The impact of one-sided load in the long-term sports practice of figure skating was confirmed. It has also been shown that these exercises can be used for this particular set of probands to compensate for unilateral loading and adjust the training so that compensatory exercises are part of the training. Furthermore, I managed to design a program that would reduce these weaknesses for this selected group of probands. Keywords: Figure skating, training,...

Title: Compensatory exercise as a complement to the training schedule for children of younger school age in figure skating Objectives: The main objective of this work is to identify the most frequently occurring muscular dysbalance in the studied group of younger school-age figure skaters. Therefore, in order to find out the fundamental deficiencies, we used simple tests and based on the deficiencies, we created a buffer of compensatory exercises. We will verify the results using the same tests as at the beginning of the initial measurement after the three-month preparatory period. Methods: In my work I used a functional muscular test to assess the flexibility and examination of a physiotherapist with the help of the MFK system. We do not only measure the muscular strength of the main muscle in individual tests, but we also investigate and analyze the performance of the whole movement. Testing was attended by five figure skaters in the younger school age. Results: Initial testing took place at the start of the preparatory period. A 3-month compensation program was then applied and after the test, the probands were again tested to determine the effect. The results of this work are described in the tables. The result of this work is that the most problematic parts were the abdominal, back muscles and...

Title: Evolution of Prize Money for the 1st places in selected sports Objectives: The main aim of this Master Thesis is to analyse evolution of prize money for winners in selected competitions and disciplines of golf, tennis, athletics and figure skating and prognosis of their evolution until 2020. Another goal is to compare the results of this prognosis and try to determine what influences the evolution. Methods: Methods used for prognosis of the future evolution are prognostic functions FORECAST and LOGLINTREND. Quality of prognosis is based on the Theil Index of Inequality. Trendline is also used to determine future evolution of the data. The correct trendline is chosen based on its reliability value. Results: Result of this theses is the discovery that prize money in history was progressively growing especially in traditional tournaments in tennis and golf. In younger series of competitions in figure skating and athletics prize money remained constant within the years. Prognosis suggests further increase in prize money in Grand Slam and Major tournaments and stagnation in Diamond League and ISU Grand Prix. Keywords: prize money, prognosis, professional sport, golf, tennis, athletics, figure skating

SOMATIC CHARACTERISTICS OF FEMALE FIGURE SKATERS IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC Objectives: The aim of the thesis is to find out specific somatic characteristics and somatotypes of female figure skaters in the Czech Republic. Subsequently relationships between measured somatic characteristics and normative of general population, and relationships between actual data and previous studies of female figure skaters are being examined. Methods: We use somatometric measurements to determine selected somatic characteristics (weight, height, eg.). We use the Heath-Carter method of somatotyping. Results: Female figure skaters are smaller than general population of the same age. In terms of physical height, one half of figure skaters is above population average while second half is under the average of population. Female figure skaters in this study are taller and heavier than figure skaters in previous study (Šelingerová, 1988) and they are more endomorphic. Prevailing somatotype is mesomorphic endomorph. Keywords: figure skating, somatic characteristics, somatotype, Heath-Carter method

Title of the thesis: Methodics of basics in figure skating sport training for children of primary school age Aim: The mapping of methodics of basic elements in figure skating training for children of primary school age from literature and it's verification in training. The mending of this methodics based on questionnaire, knowledge get during the consultations with coaches and from training. It includes basics of skating, turns, steps, piruets and jumps. Key words: figure skating, skating, methodics, skater, child, basic, element, jump, spin.

The submitted diploma thesis deals with presentations of figure skating at Winter Olympic Games from the 1990s to the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi in two selected daily newspapers, and with ways in which the presentation of figure skating has changed within the analysed period. The first chapter presents sports journalism, its history and famous personalities, its text types and typical language, and characteristic features of a sport journalist. The second chapter presents the connection of sports and media, the concepts of agenda-setting, agenda-building and intermedia agenda, tabloidization and commercialization and ways in which news services work. The third chapter presents figure skating and figure skating events at the analysed Winter Olympic Games. The analysed media and changing paradigms of the media landscape are presented in the fourth chapter. The methodological basis used for the analyses is described in the fifth chapter. The sixth chapter presents the results of the quantitative and qualitative analysis of the newspaper articles. Furthermore, the interviews with two personalities of the Czech figure skating are analysed qualitatively. The results of the quantitative analysis of the articles and the qualitative analysis of the interviews are compared. Keywords figure skating,...

L’entraînement délibéré joue un rôle essentiel dans le développement de l’excellence sportive. Cette pratique est décrite comme étant une activité menée dans un but d’amélioration exigeant un niveau élevé d’effort et de concentration et n’étant pas nécessairement plaisante. Bien que les aspects quantitatifs de la pratique délibérée aient grandement été explorés, peu d’études se sont attardées à qualifier ce processus de façon précise. Ainsi, l’objectif de la présente étude est de définir précisément ce qu’est un entraînement de qualité ainsi que le processus psychologique s’y rattachant. Pour ce faire, des entrevues semi-structurées ont été menées auprès de douze patineurs élites québécois. L’analyse des données, par théorisation ancrée, démontre qu’un entraînement de haute qualité est le résultat d’une interaction dynamique de plusieurs facteurs liés à l’athlète, à son environnement, au contenu de son entraînement et à son état psychologique. Plus précisément, la confiance, la motivation, la concentration et l’attitude positive sont les habiletés psychologiques qui peuvent affecter l’entraînement. En fait, l’analyse démontre qu’un processus psychologique important s’opère lors de l’entraînement délibéré. Tout d’abord, des stratégies cognitives et comportementales comme l’imagerie mentale, la fixation d’objectifs et la routine sont utilisées par les athlètes pour se préparer à l’entraînement. Puis, lorsque son état psychologique est affecté négativement, l’athlète a recours à différentes stratégies afin d’optimiser cet état. Si ces stratégies s’avèrent efficaces, la qualité de l’entraînement est maintenue et l’athlète en ressort avec l’impression d’avoir progressé autant sur le plan technique, mental qu’émotionnel.
Deliberate practice plays an important role in the development of sport excellence. This practice is described as being aimed at the improvement of performance and requires a high level of effort and concentration and is not inherently enjoyable. The quantitative aspect of deliberate practice has been explored in several studies, but very few studies have examined the qualitative side of this process. Thus, the goal of the present study is to describe precisely what deliberate training is and the psychological process underlying it. To reach those goals, semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve elite Quebec figure skaters . Data analyse, using grounded theory, demonstrate that high quality training is the result of a dynamic interaction among many factors related to the athletes, their environment, the content of their training and their psychological state. Specifically, confidence, focus, motivation and positive attitude are psychological skills that can affect performance. In fact, the results show that an important process occurred during deliberate training. First, cognitive and behavioral strategies such as mental imagery, goal setting and routine are used by athletes to prepare themselves to train. Then, when the athletes' psychological state is negatively affected, they use different strategies to try to optimize this state. If these strategies are efficient, they help maintain the quality of training and the athletes experience the perception of having progressed technically, mentally, and emotionally.

Title: Analysis of the World Championships 2005-2017 Objectives: The main aim of this thesis is to analyse the sport performance of solo figure skaters in the World Championships. After that changes in development of these performances of women and men skaters are researched. Another aim is to predict the development of sport performance of figure skaters in the next four years. Methods: In creating this thesis methods of correlation and regression analysis, literature research on the basis of content analysis and personal experience in the field of the research have been used. Results: This thesis confirms the increasing tendency of sport performance in single skating in the World Championships. The greates portion of the increase falls on the increasing difficulty of the included jumping emelent. The prediction of acquired points for the best man in the World Championships ain 2018 is 216 points with probability 83 % and for best lady, it is 153 points with probability 74 %. Keywords: points for elements, figure skating, new judging system, program components, sport performance