Citation

Ruedl G, Sommersacher R, Woldrich T, Kopp M, Nachbauer W, Burtscher M. Sportverletz Sportschaden 2010; 24(3): 150-153.

Vernacular Title

Durchschnittsgeschwindigkeit von Wintersportlern in Abhangigkeit verschiedener

Affiliation

Institut für Sportwissenschaft Innsbruck.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Georg Thieme Verlag)

DOI

10.1055/s-0029-1245578

PMID

20845243

Abstract

Objective of this study was to evaluate speeds on ski slopes depending on various factors as gender, age, height, weight, and nationality, helmet use, used type of gear, skiing ability, risk taking behaviour and weather conditions. The average speed measured with a radar speed gun was 44 km/h for all observations. A multivariate logistic regression model revealed five independent factors for higher speeds on slopes: younger age, male gender, skier, higher skill level, and riskier behaviour. Helmet use is not associated with higher speeds on slopes. Therefore, ski helmets have been recommended because helmet use is associated with a considerable reduction of head injury risk. In general, to avoid speed related injuries, preventive recommendations include skiing under speed control consistent with the individual skiing ability, and slope and weather conditions.

Language: en