Research Progress of Ski Jumping Training Theory and Preparation Strategy for the Milan Winter Olympics

Abstract

Current research on ski jumping predominantly employs sports biomechanics to describe the kinematic and dynamic characteristics of athletes’ takeoff and flight phases, yet lacks a systematic synthesis of training theory advancements and consideration of competition preparation strategies. This study employs literature review, expert interviews, and fieldwork to comprehensively analyze domestic and international ski jumping research and training requirements, so as to provide references for the Milan Winter Olympics from aspects such as competition rules, technical characteristics, and preparation strategies. The research results reveal that the takeoff-early flight phase is the decisive segment of the entire movement process, where technical proficiency directly impacts final performance. The key technical challenge during the takeoff phase is how to rapidly elevate the center of gravity to generate forward angular momentum while maintaining proper posture to counteract air resistance. Although a higher takeoff speed can reduce launch time, impair athletes’ control over their movements. Therefore, an adaptive choice between higher speeds and better technical control should be made based on individual athletes’ specialized control capabilities. During the flight phase, vertical velocity demonstrates a more significant influence on performance compared to horizontal velocity, while angular parameters show a greater impact than relative velocity parameters. CFD calculations indicate that surface pressure acting on athletes’ bodies has a far greater aerodynamic effect than air resistance. The optimal ski board angle of 24-3° was determined through L/D ratio analysis. To meet the needs of the four core technical phases of ski jumping, it is necessary to introduce leveraging low-speed return wind tunnels for environmental simulation, wearable devices for posture testing, and multi-parameter physiological monitoring, and construct athletes’ multi-parameter digital twin models. These measures can provide support for their preparation for the Milan Winter Olympics.