Strength and Conditioning Considerations for Elite Snowboard Half Pipe

ABSTRACT

Snowboarding Halfpipe (HP) is a winter action sport which has progressed from being a recreational snow activity to a high performance snow sport such as traditional downhill or Nordic skiing. Like figure skating, gymnastics and diving, performance in the snowboard HP is subjectively assessed by a number of judges. The marking criteria focus on jump height (amplitude) and trick difficulty as the primary technical aspects. However, overall style and the appearance of effortless motion are also essential components of a well scored run. While HP performance is very technical in nature, considerable physical capabilities are required in order to maximize jump amplitude and remain injury free. This paper examines the scientific basis of the HP to highlight the role that sports scientists and strength and conditioners can play in this sport. Challenges that these practitioners may experience with these athletes are also discussed. Further research is required to characterize the physical capacities of elite HP snowboarders and how these compare to the stresses that training and competing may place on the human body. Such information may allow strength and conditioning coaches and sports scientists to develop more specific conditioning programs and to have a clearer understanding of the volume, intensity and mode of training athletes require and can tolerate in order to optimize their HP performance.