Activity of Upper Body Muscles in Double Poling and Skierg Workout

Abstract

Background. The aim of the study was to compare the involvement of upper body muscles during double poling
and SkiErg Concept 2 workout and verify its specificity for cross-country skiing.
Methods. Ten elite Czech cross-country skiers performed double poling and SkiErg workout. Electromyography
of selected upper body muscles and cycle characteristics were analysed. To monitor the electrical activity of muscles,
we used the device ME6000. Data were analysed using Mega Win and MATLAB software version R2012b.
Results.  Relative  poling  phase  during  double  poling  was  30.30  ±  2.02%  and  during  SkiErg  workout  54  ±
3.36%. Pre-activation of trunk flexors was significantly higher during double poling due to high and forward body
position before pole plant. Pre-activation of trunk flexors was not significantly different as pre-activation of shoulder
and elbow extensors during SkiErg workout. Deactivation of these muscles came significantly later during SkiErg
workout.
Conclusion.  SkiErg  cannot  be  considered  a  specific  training  method  for  cross-country  skiing.  It  can  be
recommended to obtain specific power, but long-term application may cause disruption of double poling technique,
especially timing of trunk flexors, shoulder and elbow extensors.

Keywords:  cross country skiing, double poling, SkiErg, upper body, EMG.