The Science Behind Skeleton Racing

//The Science Behind Skeleton Racing

The Science Behind Skeleton Racing

 

Three major things affect an athlete’s performance when competing in skeleton sled races. The first is the positioning of the rider on the sled for maximum aerodynamic effects. The second is the strength and speed that goes into the run-up that starts the race. Finally, there is the rider’s control on the track, making sure they stay on the shortest possible racing line. All of this must be done in split seconds if the riders aim to succeed in their attempts. Let’s take a closer look at the science behind one of the most dangerous events at the Winter Olympics.

 

The Pose

 

Aerodynamics is the name of the game when it comes to skeleton races. How an athlete lays down on the sled makes a huge difference to how well they will perform in their race. Making sure that your posture on the sled is aerodynamic helps with acceleration and can shave a few seconds off of your track timings.

 

A recent study looked into the aerodynamics of skeleton riders and bobsled teams to figure out how they should be positioned on their sled to increase their speed to the maximum. Results found that skeleton riders must stay as low and flat as possible, with their chins facing forward and their toes pointing upwards.

The Start

 

The run-up to the start of the race requires an awkward sprint at a hunched-over angle. Racers can take the first 15 meters of the race to do their run-up, after which the timer will start for the remainder of the track.

 

The riders need to get a good grip on the track and run while pushing their sled in the grooves already made on the track. Having the right run-up and leap onto the board makes a world of difference. You ideally don’t want to land too hard on your sled; rather just slide on as it moves forward.

 

The Racing Line

 

Finally, riders must be careful to find the most optimal route on track. This is a trick perfected by racecar drivers that lets them find the fastest way through any track. Riders must aim to hit the apex of each turn by moving to the outside of the track before a turn and moving in sharply. This helps them turn corners faster and more efficiently.

 

Learn more about skeleton racing and how more Africans are being represented in the Winter Olympics here. As Ghana’s first skeleton Olympic athlete, I feel a responsibility to be the hope of a billion young folk trying to do the impossible. I am Akwasi Frimpong, and I will represent Ghana at the Winter Olympics.

By |2021-09-13T11:06:07+00:00August 25th, 2021|Blog|0 Comments

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