Lower limb biomechanical differences between jumps with different number of rotations in youth figure skaters

More difficult Axel type jumps require greater hip flexion during propulsion phase and greater activities in hamstrings, quadriceps and tibialis anterior before jump take-off. Youth figure skaters can improve jump height, take-off vertical velocity and overall qualities of jumps by enhancing multi-joint movement, muscle coordination and take-off leg strength. These findings provide insights into the lower-limb biomechanical characteristics of figure skating jumps, and potentially leading to refinement of training programs for the youth figure skaters to optimize jump performances and to reduce potential lower extremity injuries.