Isokinetic Knee Strength as a Predictor of Performance in Elite Ski Mountaineering Sprint Athletes

Abstract

Background and Objectives: This study aims to investigate the relationship between isokinetic knee strength and competition performance in elite male ski mountaineering sprint athletes and to identify strength parameters that predict performance and contribute to injury prevention. Materials and Methods: Thirteen male athletes participating in the Ski Mountaineering Turkey Cup final stage were included. Isokinetic knee flexion (FLX) and extension (EXT) strength of dominant (DM) and non-dominant (NDM) legs were measured at angular velocities of 60 degrees/s and 180 degrees/s using the DIERS-Myolin Isometric Muscle Strength Analysis System. Competition performance was evaluated using the ISMF scoring system. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 with Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses after normality, linearity, and homoscedasticity checks. Results: Strong positive correlations were found between hamstring strength at high angular velocities (180 degrees/s) and performance (DM FLX: r = 0.809; NDM FLX: r = 0.880). Extension strength showed moderate correlations at low velocities (60 degrees/s) (DM EXT: r = 0.677; NDM EXT: r = 0.699). Regression analysis revealed that DM FLX at 180 degrees/s and DM EXT at 60 degrees/s explained 49% of performance variance (Adj. R2 = 0.498). For NDM legs, only 180 degrees/s FLX was a significant predictor (beta = 1.468). Conclusions: High-velocity hamstring strength plays a critical role in ski mountaineering sprint performance, particularly during sudden directional changes and dynamic balance. Quadriceps strength at low velocities contributes to prolonged climbing phases. Moreover, identifying and addressing bilateral strength asymmetries may support injury prevention strategies in elite ski mountaineering athletes. These findings provide scientific support for designing training programs targeting explosive hamstring strength, bilateral symmetry, and injury risk reduction, essential for optimizing performance in the 2026 Winter Olympics sprint discipline.