Student Article

Learn the techniques and equipment athletes use to excel in winter sports!

Speed skating:

In speed skating, athletes wear special skates called clap-skates. These skates have a hinge at the front that helps the blade stay on the ice longer. This means skaters can push harder and go faster. Skaters move quickly by pushing their feet out to the side in sweeping strides. On turns, they take short steps like climbing stairs sideways.

Bobsledding:

Bobsledding is a thrilling sport where teams race down icy tracks in sleds. The sleds are designed to go very fast, and heavier athletes help make them even faster. The weight helps reduce drag, which is the force that slows things down. The driver must steer the sled perfectly to stay on the best path.

Curling:

Curling is a game where players slide heavy stones on ice. The stones weigh about 40 pounds and have handles on top. Players can make the stones spin by twisting the handle. The ice is pebbled, which means it has tiny bumps. Sweeping the ice in front of the stone makes it smoother, helping the stone go farther.

Ski jumping:

Ski jumpers fly through the air after launching off a hill. They tuck their bodies into a crouched position to reduce drag and go faster. In the air, they spread their skis into a V shape to stay up longer. Ski jumpers need to be light and lean to fly far.

Snowboarding:

Snowboard cross is a race where snowboarders go down a course with ramps and turns. They jump to avoid slowing down because jumping through the air is faster than carving through the snow. The narrow course makes it hard to pass other racers unless they fall.

Giant slalom:

In giant slalom, skiers race down a hill and turn around poles as quickly as possible. Special skis called side-cut skis help them turn faster. These skis are designed to turn easily when pressure is applied in the right place. Skiers also wear slippery suits to reduce drag and go faster.

© Our Media