Biomechanical comparison between toe and edge jumps in figure skating: focusing on toe-loop and loop in female skaters

In figure skating, Toe jumps have been reported to achieve greater jump height than Edge jumps. However, the biomechanical differences inherent in their associated take-off mechanisms have not yet been clarified. Therefore, the aim was to clarify the biomechanical distinctions between the triple Toe-loop (TL) and the triple Loop (LP), which share the same take-off leg. Ten female skaters performed both jumps, while three-dimensional kinematic data were collected using a marker-based optical motion-capture system. Parameters related to vertical and rotational velocities were analysed across the take-off sequence. An inverted pendulum model and relative vertical momentum analysis were applied to investigate the mechanisms of vertical velocity generation. Angular momentum, moment of inertia, inclination angle, and trunk twist angle were calculated to examine the mechanisms underlying rotational velocity generation. The TL was characterised by a stepwise acquisition of vertical velocity and angular momentum across the Glide and Transition phases. In contrast, the LP demonstrated a highly integrated take-off strategy, simultaneously generating vertical velocity and angular momentum during the Transition through coordinated lower-limb inclination and free-leg swing. These findings reveal distinct take-off strategies underlying Toe and Edge jumps and provide biomechanical evidence to support coaching and performance evaluation.